How to Cook a Thanksgiving Turkey | I Heart Recipes

butter

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Olive oil is lower in saturated fat.

chicken broth

🥗Healthier: vegetable broth

💰Cheaper: water + bouillon cube

Vegetable broth is lower in sodium.

fresh herbs

🥗Healthier: dried herbs

💰Cheaper: mixed Italian seasoning

Dried herbs are more shelf-stable.

flour

🥗Healthier: whole wheat flour

💰Cheaper: cornstarch

Whole wheat flour adds fiber.

Remove the plastic from around the turkey leg and any giblets from the cavity.

Rinse the turkey under cool water and place it on a clean flat surface.

Use kitchen shears to remove excess skin and the turkey tail.

Slice up yellow onions and lemon.

Loosen the turkey skin using a plastic spatula, being careful not to puncture it.

Rub flavored butter underneath the turkey skin, massaging it into the meat.

Massage any excess butter onto the outside of the turkey skin and set aside leftover butter for later.

Stuff the turkey cavity with the sliced lemon and onion.

Use butcher string to tie the turkey legs together.

Sprinkle the turkey with seasoning salt, which contains black pepper, and add sage and crushed basil leaf.

Pat additional seasoning onto any bald spots on the turkey.

Cover the turkey and place it in the oven preheated to 375°F (190°C).

Bake the turkey for about 15 minutes per pound, approximately 2.5 hours for a 10 lb turkey.

30 minutes before the turkey is done, melt the excess turkey butter and pour it over the turkey to crisp the skin.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens