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turkey dinner

turkey dinner

This classic turkey dinner is perfect for a festive celebration or a family gathering. Tender, juicy turkey is seasoned to perfection, accompanied by delicious side dishes that complement the main course beautifully.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 People
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 large roasting pan
  • 1 meat thermometer
  • 1 basting brush
  • 1 large mixing bowl
  • 1 whisk
  • 1 aluminum foil
  • 1 serving platter

Ingredients
  

  • 1 whole turkey (14-16 lb)
  • ½ cup unsalted butter Softened.
  • 2 tablespoons salt
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 4 cups stuffing mix
  • 1 cup celery, diced
  • 1 cup onion, diced
  • 2 cups fresh cranberries
  • ½ cup sugar (for cranberry sauce)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
  • In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and rosemary to create a seasoning paste.
  • Pat the turkey dry with paper towels. Gently loosen the skin on the turkey and rub half of the seasoning paste under the skin and all over the turkey.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the stuffing mix, diced celery, diced onion, and 1 cup of chicken broth. Mix well and stuff the turkey cavity with the prepared stuffing. Secure the opening with kitchen twine.
  • Place the turkey in a large roasting pan. Pour the remaining chicken broth into the bottom of the pan. Cover the turkey loosely with aluminum foil.
  • Roast the turkey in the oven for about 2 ½ hours. After this time, remove the foil and continue roasting for an additional 30-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the turkey reaches 165°F (75°C). Baste the turkey with pan juices every 30 minutes.
  • While the turkey is roasting, prepare the cranberry sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the fresh cranberries and sugar. Stir occasionally until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens, about 10-15 minutes.
  • Once the turkey is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 20-30 minutes before carving.
  • Serve the turkey with stuffing and cranberry sauce on a large platter. Enjoy your turkey dinner!

Notes

For added flavor, consider brining the turkey overnight before cooking.
You can substitute the stuffing mix with homemade stuffing if preferred.
Leftover turkey can be used in sandwiches, soups, or casseroles.