Thanksgiving is a time-honored tradition that brings families and friends together to give thanks and enjoy a delicious feast. At the heart of this celebration is the iconic Thanksgiving turkey. It’s hard to imagine a holiday dinner without a perfectly roasted turkey as the centerpiece.

The origins of Thanksgiving date back to the 17th century when the pilgrims settled in Plymouth, Massachusetts. The first Thanksgiving feast was held in 1621 and was a three-day celebration shared between the pilgrims and the Native American Wampanoag tribe. Turkey wasn’t actually on the menu at the first Thanksgiving – instead, the feast featured venison, seafood, and various vegetables.

It wasn’t until the mid-19th century that turkey became the go-to main course for Thanksgiving dinners across the United States. In fact, President Abraham Lincoln declared Thanksgiving a national holiday in 1863, and it has been celebrated every year since.

Although the turkey is the star of Thanksgiving dinner, it can be a daunting task to prepare it perfectly. But don’t worry – we have a delicious turkey recipe that is sure to impress your guests. It’s a classic roast turkey with a flavorful herb butter rub and a bed of aromatic vegetables, giving it a depth of flavor that is truly unforgettable.

Our Thanksgiving turkey recipe begins with a 14-16 lb turkey, which is rinsed inside and out and patted dry. Then, a mixture of softened butter and freshly chopped rosemary, thyme, and sage is spread over the turkey breast and underneath the skin. This herb butter adds incredible flavor and helps keep the turkey moist as it roasts in the oven.

The turkey sits atop a bed of chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery, which impart their savory flavors into the pan juices. A generous amount of chicken broth is poured in the bottom of the pan to create a moist cooking environment. The turkey is then roasted in a 325°F oven for several hours, with regular basting to ensure a golden brown, crispy skin.

Once the turkey is done and has reached a safe internal temperature of 165°F, it’s important to let it rest for at least 30 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures that the meat stays tender and juicy on the plate.

When it comes time to carve the turkey, be sure to do so with a sharp knife and some patience. The meat should be carved against the grain and served with your favorite Thanksgiving sides.

This Thanksgiving turkey recipe is a true labor of love, but the end result is worth every minute of preparation. Your family and friends will be impressed by your culinary skills, and your taste buds will thank you for the amazing flavors. Give it a try and enjoy a truly memorable Thanksgiving feast!