Two Hour Turkey
Savory roasted turkey infused with lemon pepper, rosemary, onions, carrots, and celery—perfect for a grand family gathering or holiday feast.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Line a baking pan with foil and spray with Pam or grease with oil.
- Sprinkle salt and lemon pepper inside the turkey cavity and under the neck skin.
- Place onion slices under the neck skin, fold the wings under the back, and pull the neck skin under the wings.
- Add a handful of parsley stems and 1 teaspoon of rosemary into the cavity.
- Tie the legs together loosely.
- Arrange the remaining ingredients—giblets, carrot slices, celery slices, large onion slices, and an additional teaspoon of rosemary—around the turkey in the pan.
- Heat consommé and tomato juice, then pour it around the turkey in the pan.
- Cover the turkey with a single sheet of foil, ensuring the foil does not touch the turkey top.
- Bake at 425°F (220°C) on the lowest rack for 1 hour.
- After 1 hour, slit the top of the foil and open it, then push it to the side.
- Continue baking for 1 more hour uncovered at 400°F (200°C).
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispy skin, make sure to dry the turkey thoroughly before seasoning. If you don't have lemon pepper, a mix of lemon zest and black pepper works well. Fresh herbs can be substituted with dried ones; just use one-third of the amount. Also, if you're short on time, consider using pre-sliced vegetables to save preparation time.
Serving Suggestions
This Two Hour Turkey pairs beautifully with stuffing and homemade gravy. Serve alongside classic sides like mashed potatoes and green beans for a festive meal. For a refreshing touch, consider a crisp salad or roasted vegetables. Don't forget to save some turkey for sandwiches the next day, perhaps with a slice of your favorite bread.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover turkey should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, place the turkey in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 325°F (165°C) oven until heated through, about 25-30 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Two Hour Turkey contains roughly 786 calories, with 2g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 85g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (13% of the Daily Value).
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 smaller turkey for this recipe?
Yes, you can use a smaller turkey; just adjust the cooking time. A general rule is to roast for about 13 minutes per pound at 425°F (220°C) and 400°F (200°C) after removing the foil. Always check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
What can I substitute for the vegetables in the roasting pan?
You can customize the vegetables based on your preference. Root vegetables like parsnips or turnips work well, and you can also add potatoes for a hearty dish. Just make sure they are cut into similar sizes to ensure even cooking.
Is it necessary to cover the turkey with foil?
Covering the turkey with foil during the first hour helps to keep it moist and prevents the skin from burning. This method allows the turkey to cook evenly, and uncovering it later helps achieve that golden, crispy skin.
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).