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turkey in roaster oven recipe

Easy Turkey in Roaster Oven Recipe Your Guests Will Love

Turkey in roaster oven recipe delivers a moist, flavorful bird effortlessly. Perfect for holidays or gatherings, it simplifies the cooking process and maximizes taste.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 20 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Dishes
Cuisine American
Servings 8 people
Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

  • Roaster Oven
  • Meat Thermometer
  • Large Roasting Pan (if transferring turkey after roasting)
  • Carving Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Paper towels
  • Small Mixing Bowl
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Optional: Turkey Baster

Ingredients
  

  • 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey, thawed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup butter, melted
  • 1 medium onion, quartered
  • 2 carrots, roughly chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, roughly chopped

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Prepare the Turkey: Remove the giblets and neck from the turkey cavity. Rinse the turkey inside and out with cold water. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels, ensuring the skin is as dry as possible for optimal browning.
  • Step 2: Season the Turkey: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, salt, pepper, thyme, rosemary, and garlic powder. Rub this mixture all over the turkey, ensuring even coverage. Drizzle melted butter over the seasoned turkey.
  • Step 3: Prepare the Roaster Oven: Place the onion, carrots, and celery in the bottom of the roaster oven. This creates a natural roasting rack and adds flavor to the drippings.
  • Step 4: Position the Turkey: Place the seasoned turkey on top of the vegetables in the roaster oven. Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the roaster oven.
  • Step 5: Roast the Turkey: Cover the roaster oven and set the temperature to 325F (160C). Roast for approximately 3-5 hours, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh registers 165F (74C). Cooking time will vary depending on the size of the turkey.
  • Step 6: Baste (Optional): Every hour or so, baste the turkey with the juices from the bottom of the roaster oven to keep it moist and enhance the flavor.
  • Step 7: Rest Before Carving: Once the turkey reaches 165F (74C), remove it from the roaster oven and let it rest for at least 20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bird. Optional tip: For added flavor, consider stuffing the turkey with your favorite bread stuffing recipe before roasting. Be sure to monitor the internal temperature of the stuffing as well, ensuring it reaches 165F (74C) for safety.

Notes

Variations

  • Ingredient Swaps: Experiment with different herb combinations, such as sage and marjoram, or Italian seasoning. Citrus fruits like lemons or oranges can be inserted into the turkey cavity for a zesty flavor.
  • Regional Twists: Incorporate Cajun spices for a spicy kick or add maple syrup for a touch of sweetness. Southwest flavors can be achieved using chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika.
  • Dietary Adjustments: For a lower-sodium option, reduce or eliminate added salt and focus on fresh herbs and spices. For a gluten-free version, ensure all ingredients, especially broth, are certified gluten-free.

Serving Suggestions

The roasted turkey serves as a centerpiece for holiday dinners, Thanksgiving feasts, and family gatherings. Present the whole turkey on a large platter, garnished with fresh herbs and citrus slices. Accompany it with classic sides such as mashed potatoes, stuffing, cranberry sauce, green bean casserole, and gravy. Carve the turkey just before serving to maintain optimal moisture and temperature.

Storage Tips

Cooked turkey should be cooled completely before storing. Wrap the turkey tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. Refrigerate cooked turkey for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze the turkey in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2-3 months. Ensure proper thawing in the refrigerator before reheating. Sliced turkey can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Question 1: Can the turkey be brined before roasting in the roaster oven?
    Answer: Yes, brining can enhance the moisture and flavor of the turkey. Ensure the brined turkey is thoroughly rinsed and dried before seasoning and roasting.
  • Question 2: How to prevent the turkey from browning too quickly?
    Answer: If the turkey skin is browning too quickly, tent it loosely with aluminum foil to shield it from direct heat.
  • Question 3: How long should the turkey rest after roasting?
    Answer: Allow the turkey to rest for at least 20 minutes after roasting to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bird.
  • Question 4: Can the roaster oven be used to keep the turkey warm after roasting?
    Answer: Yes, the roaster oven can be set to a low temperature (around 170F or 77C) to keep the turkey warm for a limited time. Monitor the internal temperature to ensure it stays above 140F (60C) for food safety.
Keyword Christmas, Thanksgiving, Turkey