**Introduction:**
Elevate your Thanksgiving celebration with the quintessential Classic American Roast Turkey recipe. This cherished tradition brings families together around a succulent and perfectly cooked turkey, embodying the spirit of gratitude and togetherness. Follow this time-honored recipe to create a centerpiece that marries rich flavors, tender meat, and a golden, crispy skin, all while crafting cherished memories with loved ones.
**Ingredients:**
- 1 whole turkey (approximately 12-14 pounds)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, minced
- 1 lemon, quartered
- 1 onion, quartered
- 4 garlic cloves, smashed
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups turkey or chicken broth
- Kitchen twine
**Instructions:**
**Step 1: Prep the Turkey**
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Remove the giblets and neck from the turkey cavity, and pat the turkey dry with paper towels.
**Step 2: Season and Truss**
1. In a small bowl, mix softened butter with minced rosemary and thyme.
2. Carefully separate the skin from the turkey breasts and spread the herb butter underneath.
3. Season the turkey cavity with salt and pepper.
4. Stuff the cavity with lemon quarters, onion quarters, and smashed garlic cloves.
5. Truss the turkey legs with kitchen twine to help it cook evenly.
**Step 3: Roasting Time**
1. Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a roasting pan.
2. Pour the turkey or chicken broth into the pan to keep the turkey moist during cooking.
3. Tent the turkey loosely with aluminum foil.
**Step 4: Roasting the Turkey**
1. Roast the turkey in the preheated oven, basting every 30 minutes with the pan juices.
2. Remove the foil during the last hour of cooking to allow the skin to turn golden and crispy.
**Step 5: Check for Doneness**
1. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the thickest part of the turkey thigh. It should read 165°F (74°C).
2. Once the turkey is cooked, remove it from the oven and cover it with foil. Let it rest for about 20-30 minutes before carving.
**Step 6: Carve and Serve**
1. Carve the turkey into slices and arrange them on a serving platter.
2. Serve the succulent Classic American Roast Turkey as the centerpiece of your Thanksgiving feast.
**Conclusion:**
Celebrate the cherished tradition of Thanksgiving with the time-honored Classic American Roast Turkey. As you savor each bite of tender, flavorful meat, you'll be reminded of the warmth of family, the joy of gathering, and the gratitude that fills the air during this special holiday. This recipe not only ensures a delicious turkey but also creates a sense of nostalgia and connection, making your Thanksgiving truly unforgettable.
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