Roasted Turkey
A classic roasted turkey with savory stuffing, tender meat, and flavorful glaze, perfect for festive occasions and large gatherings, offering juicy meat and crispy skin.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove giblets from the center cavity and neck cavity.
- Wash the turkey in cold water and dry inside and out.
- Drain the turkey.
- Salt both cavities, but not the outside.
- Place onion and celery in both cavities.
- Bend wing tips under the back of the turkey.
- Place the turkey on a rack, breast side up, and coat with shortening.
- Place the rack with the turkey in a large roasting pan with a lid or an aluminum disposable pan.
- If using disposable pans, put two together so the pan won't buckle when lifted.
- Wrap foil around the legs and cover the turkey with a foil tent.
- Roast in a preheated 325°F oven for 6.5 to 7.5 hours.
- Remove the turkey from the oven and brush with the melted currant jelly glaze.
- Place the turkey on a serving tray and garnish with parsley, pickled peaches, crab apples, cocktail corn, or steamed asparagus.
Tips & Substitutions
For a juicy turkey, consider brining it a day before roasting. You can substitute the currant jelly with cranberry sauce for a tangy twist. If Parkay isn't available, use butter or olive oil for coating. Make sure to baste the turkey every hour to keep it moist. Using a meat thermometer will help ensure it's cooked perfectly without overcooking.
Serving Suggestions
This roasted turkey is perfect for holiday gatherings and pairs beautifully with Festive Turkey Salad for a light post-feast meal. Serve alongside classic sides like mashed potatoes, stuffing, or roasted vegetables. Consider a refreshing cranberry salad or Spicy Sweet Potatoes to complement the flavors. Garnish the platter with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.
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 in portions, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When reheating, place the turkey in a covered dish with a little broth to keep it moist, warming at 325°F until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Roasted Turkey contains roughly 1001 calories, with 0g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 112g 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
How do I know when the turkey is fully cooked?
The turkey is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh. Use a meat thermometer to check. Allow the turkey to rest for at least 20-30 minutes before carving to let the juices redistribute for a moist result.
Can I stuff the turkey before roasting?
While you can stuff the turkey, it's recommended to cook stuffing separately to ensure both the turkey and stuffing reach safe temperatures. If you choose to stuff, make sure the stuffing also reaches 165°F. This helps avoid any foodborne illnesses.
What can I do with leftover turkey?
Leftover turkey can be used in various dishes, such as turkey sandwiches, soups, or casseroles. Consider making a hearty turkey soup or using it in a delicious Three Day Brisket recipe for a twist. You can also shred it for salads or tacos.
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).