Perfect Rosemary Roasted Turkey

Name: Perfect Rosemary Roasted Turkey
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 180 min
Total time: 240 min
Yield: 10 servings
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 5-6 kg whole turkey (thawed if frozen); 1/2 cup olive oil; 5 cloves garlic (minced); 1 bunch fresh rosemary (leaves chopped); 2 tbsp salt; 1 tbsp black pepper (freshly ground); 1 cup chicken broth

240 min 10 servings Medium

All Recipes

Discover the perfect rosemary roasted turkey recipe for a juicy and flavourful holiday centrepiece.

Prep

30 min

Cook

180 min

Total

240 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Rosemary roasted turkey is a classic holiday dish that combines the savoury aroma of fresh herbs with the rich, juicy taste of perfectly cooked turkey. This version uses fresh rosemary to infuse the meat with a deep, aromatic flavour, making it a delightful centrepiece for any festive table. Whether you are hosting a large family gathering or an intimate dinner, this rosemary roasted turkey recipe is designed to impress. With simple steps and thoughtful preparation, even first-time turkey roasters can achieve mouth-watering results.

Instructions

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).

Prepare the turkey

Remove the giblets from the turkey cavity. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels.

Pro tip: Ensure the turkey is completely dry for crispy skin.

Season the turkey

In a bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the turkey, including under the skin and inside the cavity.

Pro tip: Be generous with the seasoning for maximum flavour.

Add broth

Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan. Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the pan.

Pro tip: This helps keep the turkey moist during roasting.

Roast the turkey

Roast in the preheated oven for 3 to 3.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Pro tip: Use a meat thermometer to ensure accurate temperature.

Rest the turkey

Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for at least 30 minutes before carving.

Pro tip: Resting allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat more tender.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Use fresh rosemary for the most aromatic flavour.
Let the turkey rest for juicy results.
Tent with foil if browning too quickly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you make rosemary roasted turkey?

To make rosemary roasted turkey, season a whole turkey with rosemary, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast it until the internal temperature is 165°F (74°C).

What temperature should a roasted turkey be?

A roasted turkey should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it's cooked safely.

How long does it take to roast a turkey?

Roasting a turkey typically takes about 3 to 3.5 hours at 325°F (165°C), depending on its size.

Can I use dried rosemary instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use dried rosemary if fresh is unavailable, but use half the amount as dried herbs are more potent.

What can I serve with rosemary roasted turkey?

Serve rosemary roasted turkey with sides like mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this rosemary roasted turkey with classic sides like mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and green beans for a traditional holiday feast. The leftovers make excellent sandwiches or can be used in soups and casseroles. To make ahead, you can prepare the turkey up to two days in advance, keeping it refrigerated. Reheat gently to avoid drying out. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.