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Roasted Turkey Injected with Garlic & Herb-Infused Butter

A delightful roasted turkey infused with garlic and herbs, perfect for family gatherings and special occasions.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 3 hours
Servings: 10 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 whole whole turkey (12-14 lbs) Choose a size that fits your gathering.
  • 2 Tbsp unsalted melted butter For injecting.
  • 1 tsp salt For flavoring.
  • 16 cloves garlic (pressed) Adds depth of flavor.
  • 2 sticks unsalted butter Used for infusing with garlic and herbs.
  • 2 Tbsp fresh, finely chopped rosemary Herb for infusion.
  • 2 Tbsp fresh, finely chopped sage Herb for infusion.
  • 2 Tbsp fresh, finely chopped parsley Herb for infusion.
  • 3 tsp kosher salt For seasoning the turkey.
  • 1 tsp black pepper (finely ground) For seasoning.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 450°F.
  2. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the melted butter, salt, pressed garlic, and chopped herbs. Microwave for 1-2 minutes until the butter melts completely. Stir well and let it sit for 5 minutes.
  3. Heat the mixture for another 30 seconds and strain to separate the garlic and herbs.
  4. Place the turkey breast side up in a roasting pan and cover with plastic wrap.
  5. Inject the turkey breasts with the flavored butter in a diamond pattern, reserving some for the thighs and drumsticks.
  6. Rub the reserved garlic and herb mixture all over the turkey and inside the cavity.
  7. Sprinkle 1 tsp of kosher salt evenly over the turkey.
Cooking
  1. Roast the turkey at 450°F for 10-15 minutes for skin browning.
  2. Gently baste the turkey with additional melted butter and reduce the oven temperature to 325°F.
  3. Continue roasting for an additional 2 hours and 30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
  4. Baste the turkey with pan juices about an hour after reducing the temperature and repeat the process 45 minutes later.
  5. Once cooked, remove from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Allow the turkey to thaw fully if frozen and ensure it is patted dry for crispy skin. Use a BBQ thermometer to monitor the internal temperature for best results.