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Apple and Herb Roasted Turkey

m
Sean (@manmeetsoven)
AmericanDinnerMain CourseMeatGluten-FreeNon-Vegetarian

A dry brined turkey stuffed with apples and herbs and roasted to perfection. A great main course for your Thanksgiving Day meal.

Prep Time
24hr 0min
Cook Time
3hr 0min
Total Time
27hr
Apple and Herb Roasted Turkey recipe

Ingredients

12 Servings
(1 serving = 1 slice of turkey)

Main Ingredients

  • 14lb
    whole turkey
  • 2cups
    apple cider
  • 1/2cup
    butter, softened

Brine

  • 5tbsp
    kosher salt
  • 1/4cup
    sage, chopped
  • 1/4cup
    rosemary, chopped
  • 2tbsp
    thyme
  • 1tbsp
    peppercorns, ground

Filling

  • 1/2cup
    apple, chopped
  • 1/2cup
    onion, chopped
  • 1/2cup
    celery, chopped
  • 2tbsp
    garlic, chopped

How to make Apple and Herb Roasted Turkey

Brining the Turkey

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the salt, pepper, sage, rosemary, and thyme.

    Step 1.1: In a mixing bowl, combine the salt, pepper, sage, rosemary, and thyme

  2. Separate the skin from the breast and apply the dry brine between the skin and turkey meat, inside the cavity, and then any remainder on the skin.

    Step 1.1: Separate the skin from the breast and apply the dry brine between the skin and turkey meat, inside the cavity, and then any remainder on the skin

  3. Place on a sheet pan with a baking rack and refrigerate for at least 24 hours and up to 3 days.

Roasting the Turkey

  1. Bring the turkey out of the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature for an hour.

  2. Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C or gas mark 4) about 15 minutes before baking.

  3. Fill the cavity of the turkey with the garlic, apple, celery, and onion.

    Step 2.1: Fill the cavity of the turkey with the garlic, apple, celery, and onion

  4. Place the butter between the skin and breast meat, getting it as far under the turkey skin as possible.

    Step 2.1: Place the butter between the skin and breast meat, getting it as far under the turkey skin as possible

  5. Bake covered for 1 hour.

  6. Remove the cover and pour the apple cider over the turkey, basting every 25-30 minutes.

    Step 2.1: Remove the cover and pour the apple cider over the turkey, basting every 25-30 minutes

  7. At the two-hour mark, check the internal temperature every 15 minutes until it reaches 165°F (74°C).

    Step 2.1: At the two-hour mark, check the internal temperature every 15 minutes until it reaches 165°F (74°C)

Making Gravy (Optional)

  1. In a skillet, cook the turkey organs and neck, if included, with butter until browned.

  2. Add flour and cook for 2 minutes or until the raw smell disappears.

  3. Add the drippings from the turkey and water until the desired thickness is reached.

Tips & Tricks

  1. Ensure the turkey is fully thawed before starting the brining process.

  2. For extra flavor, you can add additional herbs or spices to the brine.

  3. Let the turkey rest for at least 20 minutes after roasting before carving.

FAQS

  1. How do I properly dry brine a turkey for roasting?

    To dry brine a turkey, mix kosher salt with herbs like sage, rosemary, and thyme. Carefully separate the skin from the breast and rub the brine mixture between the skin and the meat, as well as inside the cavity. This process enhances flavor and moisture. Refrigerate the turkey for at least 24 hours, but up to 3 days for the best results.

  2. What are some good substitutions for ingredients in the Apple and Herb Roasted Turkey recipe?

    If you don't have apple cider, you can substitute it with chicken broth or white wine for a different flavor profile. For the herbs, feel free to use dried versions if fresh herbs aren't available, but use about one-third of the amount. Additionally, if you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can replace the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free margarine.

  3. How should I store leftover Apple and Herb Roasted Turkey?

    After enjoying your Apple and Herb Roasted Turkey, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the turkey meat in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Just make sure to label the bags with the date for easy tracking.

  4. What side dishes pair well with Apple and Herb Roasted Turkey?

    Apple and Herb Roasted Turkey pairs beautifully with classic Thanksgiving sides like mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, cranberry sauce, and stuffing. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the turkey.

  5. How can I ensure my turkey is cooked to the right temperature?

    To ensure your turkey is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The turkey should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast and thigh. Start checking the temperature around the two-hour mark, and continue checking every 15 minutes until it reaches the safe temperature.

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Sean

(@manmeetsoven)

I have a food blog that is all about making cooking accessible to everyone. I aim to provide a wide range of recipes, from comfort...

Man Meets Oven
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