Name: Tender Herb Roasted Turkey
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 20 min
Cuisine: Holiday American
Ingredients: Brine: 1 gallon water; 1/2 cup kosher salt; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 2 tbsp black peppercorns; 4 cloves garlic, smashed; 2 bay leaves; 1 orange, quartered; Fresh thyme sprigs; Turkey: 12–14 lb whole turkey (fresh or thawed); Salt and pepper to taste; Herb Butter: 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped; 2 tbsp fresh sage, chopped; 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Roasting Vegetables: 1 onion, quartered; 2 carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped

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Tender Herb Roasted Turkey Recipe is a showstopping, golden-skinned bird that transforms a simple bird into a festive masterpiece with herb butter, aromatic vegetables, and a perfectly timed roast. Ready for your holiday table, it’s the ultimate centerpiece with restaurant-quality results. Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner, you can brine and roast this Tender Herb Roasted Turkey Recipe to deliver juicy perfection without the culinary stress.

What is the Tender Herb Roasted Turkey Recipe?

The Tender Herb Roasted Turkey Recipe is an oven-roasted whole turkey brined for moisture, rubbed with herb-infused butter, and roasted low-and-slow for even cooking and golden skin. This holiday essential serves up carved slices ready for gravy, making it ideal for festive tables. If you’re craving a perfectly cooked turkey centerpiece, follow the Tender Herb Roasted Turkey Recipe to recreate this elegant tradition at home.

Why You’ll Love Tender Herb Roasted Turkey Recipe

There are countless reasons why the tender herb roasted turkey recipe has become a staple for holiday cooks everywhere. From its juicy tenderness to its impressive presentation, this recipe delivers big on tradition without the trial-and-error. Here’s why you’ll roast it on repeat:

Quick and Effortless Brine
One of the best parts of the tender herb roasted turkey recipe is how it preps in 20 minutes (plus brine time). No constant basting—just roast and rest. It’s perfect for those busy holiday mornings when the kitchen calls.
The Perfect Balance of Flavors
This recipe captures turkey’s glory with herby butter, aromatic vegetables, and subtle sage-rosemary notes, creating slices that are savory and succulent. It’s customizable with citrus or garlic—much like how herb-infused flavors elevate dishes in the Lemon Herb Tahini Recipe.
Minimal Cleanup
True to one-pan prowess, everything roasts in a single roasting pan, keeping your kitchen calm. It’s as straightforward as the steps below, using staples like turkey and butter for a no-mess marvel.
Versatile for Any Gathering
Whether it’s Christmas dinner or New Year’s brunch, this turkey scales seamlessly. Carve for sandwiches or serve whole. Experiment with glazes, similar to how lemon brightens up the Baby Lemon Impossible Pies Recipe.
Ideal for Festive Feasts
The brined juiciness is incredibly satisfying on holiday tables, delivering that roasted hug without dryness. It’s an invigorating option, providing protein-packed centerpiece for the season.
A Holiday Favorite Showstopper
With its golden skin and herb flecks, this turkey looks like a pro’s work—impressive yet simple. Carve tableside for that enchanting touch; it’s sure to wow, just like the bold layers in the Lemon Herb Tahini Recipe.

The tender herb roasted turkey recipe offers the ideal mix of crisp, juice, and joy, making it a must-try for holiday mains. If you’re after a centerpiece that carves like a dream, this one will quickly become your festive favorite!

Juicy, herb-roasted tender herb roasted turkey recipe with crispy skin—perfect for dinners, holiday tables, or anytime you crave festive elegance without the fuss.

Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 4–12 hours brine)
Cook Time: 3 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
Yield: Serves 10–12 1x
Category: Main Dish
Method: Oven
Cuisine: Holiday American

Ingredients

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Brine

1 gallon water
1/2 cup salt

Turkey

12–14 lb turkey
1/2 cup butter

Herb Butter

Fresh rosemary and sage

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Instructions

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Nutrition
Serving Size: 4 oz

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Tender Herb Roasted Turkey Recipe Ingredients

Brine Ingredients

1 gallon water
1/2 cup kosher salt
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 tbsp black peppercorns
4 cloves garlic, smashed
2 bay leaves
1 orange, quartered
Fresh thyme sprigs

Turkey Ingredients

12–14 lb whole turkey (fresh or thawed)
Salt and pepper to taste

Herb Butter Ingredients

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
2 tbsp fresh sage, chopped
1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Roasting Vegetables

1 onion, quartered
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped

How to Make Tender Herb Roasted Turkey Recipe

Step 1: Brine the Turkey

In a large pot, heat 4 cups water with salt, sugar, peppercorns, garlic, bay leaves, orange, and thyme until dissolved. Cool completely, then add remaining cold water. Submerge turkey and brine in fridge 4–12 hours. Remove, rinse, and pat dry.

Step 2: Prep and Herb Butter

Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Mix softened butter with rosemary, sage, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper. Loosen turkey skin and rub herb butter underneath and over the exterior. Tie legs together with kitchen twine.

Step 3: Roast the Turkey

Place turkey on a rack in a roasting pan. Scatter onion, carrots, and celery in the pan. Roast for 3–3.5 hours (13–15 minutes per pound), basting every 30 minutes after the first hour with pan juices. Tent with foil if browning too fast. Turkey is done when internal temp reaches 165°F in thigh.

Step 4: Rest and Carve

Remove turkey from oven and let rest 20–30 minutes before carving. Carve and serve with pan drippings as gravy.

How Long Will Tender Herb Roasted Turkey Recipe Last?

When storing your tender herb roasted turkey recipe, prompt chilling keeps its juicy magic alive. These tips ensure it stays fresh for leftovers, especially for holiday feasts.

How Long Does Tender Herb Roasted Turkey Recipe Last in the Fridge?

Carved turkey keeps 3–4 days in an airtight container. Meat may dry slightly, but gravy revives moisture.

To maintain juiciness:

Cool and carve within 2 hours.
Store with gravy or broth.
Reheat covered at 325°F.

Can You Freeze Tender Herb Roasted Turkey Recipe?

Yes—portion and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw in fridge. (Pro tip: Similar to storing custardy desserts in the Baby Lemon Impossible Pies Recipe, wrap tightly to prevent freezer burn.)

Signs That Your Turkey Has Gone Bad

Watch for:

Slimy skin or off smells.
Gray discoloration.
Mold spots.

Follow these to savor every slice.

Which Turkey is Best for Tender Herb Roasted Turkey Recipe?

The turkey you choose is the heart of your tender herb roasted turkey recipe, influencing juiciness and how well it absorbs the brine. Opt for fresh for peak flavor and texture.

Best Type of Turkey for Roasted Recipe

For tender, flavorful meat, use a fresh whole turkey—at least 12–14 lb for 10–12 servings. It provides the ideal size and natural moisture without additives.

Fresh Whole Turkey: The top pick for its clean taste and ability to brine evenly.
Avoid Frozen Pre-Brined**: They over-salt; stick to fresh for control.

Select with plump breast and smooth skin—it’ll roast beautifully.

How to Prep Turkey for Roasted Recipe

Brine 4–12 hours for moisture.
Pat dry thoroughly before rubbing.
Stuff loosely; roasts in 3 hours.

Stabilizing Turkey for Roast

For longer-lasting feast:

Brine Boost: Locks in juices, much like lemon in the Baby Lemon Impossible Pies Recipe.
Herb Balance: Adds aroma without drying.

Other Turkey Options for Roasted Recipe

Heritage Breed: Richer twist for variety, with notes that catch herbs.
Turkey Breast: Smaller swap for intimate dinners.
Vegan Note: Use seitan roast for plant-based centerpiece.

Final Thoughts on Choosing Turkey for Your Roast

The right turkey elevates your tender herb roasted turkey recipe from good to grand, ensuring every slice is a juicy celebration. Whether whole or breast, you’ll roast that perfect holiday harmony every time.

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Conclusion

Tender Herb Roasted Turkey Recipe is a flavorful, no-fuss main that delivers festive elegance in a simple, brine-and-roast package. With the right ingredients and easy steps, it’s bound to become your go-to for holiday tables. From turkey picks to smart storage, these insights ensure success every roast. Cook up, share the feast, and enjoy this delightful turkey with loved ones!