How to Cook Brined Thanksgiving Turkey in 5 Minutes

Updated
2 min read

Brined thanksgiving turkey –The perfect Thanksgiving turkey is just around the corner, and what better way to impress your family and friends than by seasoning it to perfection? Follow this detailed guide to ensure your turkey is juicy, flavorful, and the centerpiece of your holiday feast.

Turkey Seasoning Preparation

Before jumping into the specifics of seasoning, let’s take a moment to appreciate the beauty of a well-cooked turkey. Crafting the ideal turkey is not just about cooking; it’s about creating delicious memories. Here’s what you need:

Perfectly seasoned turkey

Ingredients

  • 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tablespoons salt
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon dried thyme
  • 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
  • 1 tablespoon sage
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • Fresh herbs (for stuffing, optional)

Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to dive into the seasoning process that will elevate your turkey to gourmet status.

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, and sage. Mix well until it becomes a smooth paste.
  3. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels. This step is crucial because it will help the seasoning adhere better.
  4. Gently lift the skin of the turkey breast and rub half of the herb butter mixture underneath. Spread the remaining butter all over the outside of the turkey.
  5. If you opt for using fresh herbs, stuff them inside the cavity of the turkey along with any aromatics you like, such as quartered onions, celery, or lemons.
  6. Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan and pour in the chicken broth to keep the turkey moist during cooking.
  7. Roast the turkey, basting it every 30 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This usually takes about 3 to 4 hours.
  8. Once cooked, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for at least 20-30 minutes before carving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute and results in a moister turkey.

Enjoy your perfectly seasoned turkey, and don’t forget to save some leftovers for sandwiches the next day!