Juicy Herb-Roasted Turkey with Compound Butter (Easy & Elegant)

Golden herb-roasted turkey on a platter with fresh herbs, lemon slices, and buttery crispy skin.

Introduction to the Succulent Herb-Roasted Turkey

Imagine a turkey that is not only aromatic but also buttery and perfectly roasted. This herb-roasted turkey with compound butter is the ultimate showstopper for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special family gathering.

The Allure of Crispy Skin and Juicy Meat

With its crispy skin and juicy meat, this turkey is infused with a savory herb-butter flavor that makes every bite unforgettable. The compound butter, loaded with fresh herbs, garlic, and citrus, enhances the natural flavors, ensuring a delightful experience at your holiday table.

Preparation Overview and Ingredient List

Before diving into the recipe, here are the key details:

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 3 hours
Total Time: 3.5 hours
Servings: 8-10 servings
Turkey Weight Guide: 1.5 pounds per person

Ingredient List:

Compound Butter:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1 lemon, zested and juiced
For the Turkey:
12-14 pound turkey, thawed
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Aromatics:
Onions, carrots, and celery for roasting

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the compound butter by mixing all ingredients in a bowl.
Season the turkey under the skin with half the compound butter and sprinkle salt and pepper on top.
Stuff the cavity with aromatics if using.
Roast in a preheated oven at 325°F for about 13-15 minutes per pound.
Baste the turkey every 30 minutes with the remaining compound butter.

Tips for Success

To achieve crispy skin, ensure the turkey is thoroughly dried before seasoning. For moisture, consider using a brine and check for doneness with a meat thermometer—165°F in the thickest part is ideal.

Recipe Variations

Customize your herb-roasted turkey by adding cajun seasoning, mixing in citrus zest, or creating a garlic-honey butter for a sweet finish.

Herb- Roasted Turkey Serving Suggestions

Pair your juicy roast turkey with creamy mashed potatoes, tangy cranberry,Stuffing with Sausage and Sage, or colorful roasted veggies for a perfect holiday feast.

Conclusion

This herb-roasted turkey recipe with compound butter promises to be the crown jewel of your holiday dinner. Save, share, or comment below to let us know how your turkey turned out!

For carving tips, check out Butterball’s guide to carving a turkey.

Prep Time 30 mins

Cook Time 3 mins

Total Time 33 mins

Courses: Dinner, Holiday

Difficulty: Beginner

Cooking Temp: 325 F

Best Season: Fall, Winter, Thanksgiving, Christmas, Holidays

Description

This Juicy Herb Turkey is golden, tender, and bursting with flavor — the centerpiece every holiday table deserves. Seasoned with a fragrant blend of fresh rosemary, thyme, sage, and garlic, the turkey is basted with herb-infused butter to ensure every bite stays moist and flavorful. The result is a beautifully roasted bird with crispy skin, succulent meat, and a rich aroma that fills the kitchen. Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special gathering, it’s a show-stopping main dish that guarantees compliments with every slice.

Ingredients

Compound Butter:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1 lemon, zested and juiced
For the Turkey:
12 pound 12-14 turkey, thawed
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Aromatics:
Onions, carrots, and celery for roasting

Instructions

1
Step-by-Step Instructions
2
Prepare the compound butter by mixing all ingredients in a bowl.
3
Season the turkey under the skin with half the compound butter and sprinkle salt and pepper on top.
4
Stuff the cavity with aromatics if using.
5
Roast in a preheated oven at 325°F for about 13-15 minutes per pound.
6
Baste the turkey every 30 minutes with the remaining compound butter.

Note