1 Hour Baked Turkey
A simple, flavorful baked turkey with a moist texture, perfect for family dinners or holiday feasts, offering classic comfort and hearty goodness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat your oven and prepare a large oval-shaped roaster pan with a cover.
- Place the turkey in the roaster pan.
- Rub the turkey with margarine.
- Add 6 cups of water to the pan to keep the turkey moist during baking.
- Cover the pan with the lid.
- Bake the turkey in the oven for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more flavorful turkey, consider seasoning the margarine with herbs like rosemary or thyme. If margarine isn't available, unsalted butter works well too. To keep the turkey even more moist, you can add vegetables like carrots and onions to the roaster pan along with the water. Remember to check the turkey's internal temperature to ensure it's fully cooked.
Serving Suggestions
This baked turkey pairs beautifully with traditional sides like mashed potatoes and gravy or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with cranberry sauce for a touch of sweetness. For a complete meal, consider adding a dish like Florentine Sauerkraut Casserole or Smoked Sausage, Onions And White Potatoes as complementary flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover turkey should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the turkey. When reheating, place the turkey in a baking dish, add a splash of water, cover with foil, and warm it in the oven at 325°F until heated through to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 1 Hour Baked Turkey contains roughly 12 calories, with 0g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a frozen turkey for this recipe?
It's best to thaw the turkey completely before baking to ensure even cooking. A frozen turkey can take several days to thaw in the refrigerator, so plan ahead. If you're short on time, consider using a smaller turkey that can thaw more quickly.
What if I don't have a roaster pan?
If you don't have a roaster pan, a large baking dish or a deep casserole dish can work as an alternative. Just ensure it is deep enough to hold the water and turkey without spilling over. Cover it tightly with aluminum foil if you don't have a lid.
How do I know when the turkey is done cooking?
The best way to check for doneness is by using a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the turkey, usually the thigh, without touching the bone. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F to ensure the turkey is safe to eat.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).