Looking to simplify your holiday feast preparation without sacrificing flavor? Our Overnight Roast Turkey recipe is a game-changer! By allowing the turkey to marinate and cook slowly overnight, you’ll wake up to a juicy and tender bird ready to impress your guests. This method not only saves you time on the day of serving but also enhances the flavors by letting the spices meld together beautifully. Let’s dive into the details of this stress-free and delicious recipe.
Title: Overnight Roast Turkey
Ingredients:
– 12-15 lb whole turkey, thawed
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
– 1 tbsp paprika
– 1 tbsp salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 2 cups chicken or turkey broth
– 1 large onion, quartered
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels, inside and out. Gently loosen the skin from the breast and legs without tearing it.
3. Rub the herb butter mixture under the skin, covering as much of the meat as possible. Use any remaining butter mixture to coat the exterior of the turkey.
4. Place the quartered onion, carrots, and celery in the bottom of a large roasting pan. These aromatics will add flavor to the drippings.
5. Carefully place the prepared turkey on top of the vegetables in the roasting pan. Cover the pan with foil or a lid and refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to develop.
6. In the morning, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove the turkey from the refrigerator while the oven heats up.
7. Pour the chicken or turkey broth into the roasting pan, surrounding the turkey with the liquid to keep it moist during cooking.
8. Cover the pan with foil, ensuring it’s sealed tightly to lock in the moisture. Place the pan in the preheated oven.
9. Roast the turkey for approximately 3 to 4 hours, depending on the size of the bird. Baste the turkey with the pan juices every hour to enhance the flavors and keep it moist.
10. Remove the foil during the last hour of cooking to allow the skin to crisp up and turn golden brown.
11. To ensure the turkey is cooked thoroughly, use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh. It should register at least 165°F (74°C).
12. Once cooked, carefully transfer the turkey to a cutting board and let it rest for about 20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more succulent turkey.
Enjoy your Overnight Roast Turkey with your favorite sides and garnishes. This make-ahead cooking method is a game-changer for busy holiday hosts, saving you time and stress without compromising on flavor. Your guests will be delighted with the tender and flavorful turkey that graces your holiday table. Go ahead, give it a try and elevate your next special occasion with this delicious recipe!
