The task of roasting a turkey can be daunting, but this is my best turkey recipe, and the best part is it is EASY. Finding easy turkey recipes that involve the whole roasted turkey usually end up not being so straightforward.

Having a flavored turkey that is not dry is essential for thanksgiving dinner. Getting a tender thanksgiving turkey that fits the “traditional roast turkey” bill starts with a good turkey brine.

I am going to walk you through this step-by-step.

How to thaw a turkey?

This is important, and the best way is in the refrigerator. This takes time, usually 3-4 days, so you need to plan, so you have enough time.

BUT sometimes that is not the way the cookie crumbles if you are in a pinch and you need to thaw your turkey fast you can stick it in cold water and change the water every thirty minutes. The weight of your turkey in pounds is how many times you will need to change the water to ensure the turkey is completely defrosted.

Quick tip: I recommend putting your turkey in a foil baking pan or on a baking sheet to catch any drainage. Also, you should try to put it at the bottom of the refrigerator to avoid any of the turkey juice failing on other food items.

How to prep a turkey?

The CDC recommends not “washing” meat/poultry, etc.… wells I was taught differently.

What can I say?  When you take your turkey out of the bag, make sure to cut out the plastic holder, pull out the turkey neck, remove the bag of giblets, and cut away any excess skin.

At this point, you may notice the turkey will have a strong “smell.” I recommend bathing your turkey in warm salt water with lemon to cut some of the smell.

It sounds crazy, but I am convinced that meat /poultry that is not cleaned has a funny taste. Who knows?! Anyways, once your turkey cleaned, its time to BRINE (I know it’s an extra step, but it is so worth it).

Check out my other post on how to brine a turkey and why it is crucial.

How to make an oven roasted turkey?

Make the marinade and put it on your turkey. Check out my video on how I do this. Since some turkeys are so big, sometimes it’s easy to lose some of the flavors on the inside. So I like to use an injector to inject butter and marinade to soften the meat inside and to add flavor.

What temperature to cook a turkey?

The best turkey recipes recommend a slow roast at a low temperature, such as 300 degrees to 325 degrees. I recommend basting the turkey every thirty minutes.

How long to cook a turkey?

That depends on the size, the temperature of the oven, and how efficient your oven works. The rule of thumb is that it takes at least 20 minutes per pound. Always allow your turkey to rest for at least fifteen minutes before cutting and serving it.

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