Roast Turkey with Stuffing Gravy recipe

Best Turkey and Stuffing Recipe for the Holidays!

Thanksgiving and Christmas are incomplete without the star of the show—a beautifully roasted turkey that’s golden on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor. The comforting aroma of turkey roasting, paired with classic stuffing and a rich, savory gravy, makes this meal a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a big holiday dinner or cooking for a smaller gathering, this Roast Turkey with Stuffing and Gravy recipe will be the centerpiece your table deserves.

This dish might seem intimidating at first, but with the right approach, you’ll master it like a pro. Brining your turkey ensures that the meat stays moist and flavorful, while roasting it at the correct temperature guarantees a perfectly golden skin. The stuffing, made with a mix of aromatic herbs, bread, and seasonings, soaks up the delicious juices for an unbeatable taste. The crowning glory? A silky turkey gravy made from pan drippings, which ties everything together.

Roasting a turkey isn’t just about the food; it’s about creating a moment. As your kitchen fills with warm, festive aromas, and loved ones gather around to share this meal, you’re creating a memory that lasts far beyond the holidays. Get ready to impress with this foolproof recipe!

Ingredients:

For the Turkey:

1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 lemons, halved
6 garlic cloves, smashed
Fresh herbs: rosemary, thyme, parsley

For the Stuffing:

1 loaf of day-old bread, cubed
1/2 cup celery, diced
1/2 cup onion, diced
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 tbsp sage powder
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Gravy:

Pan drippings (from the turkey)
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups chicken stock

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Cooking Procedure

Step 1: Prepare the Turkey

Thaw the turkey in the refrigerator for 24-48 hours.
Remove the neck and giblets, rinse, and pat dry.
Brine the turkey if desired (optional).

Step 2: Season and Stuff

Rub the turkey with softened butter, including under the skin.
Stuff the cavity with halved lemons, smashed garlic, and herbs.
Season the outside with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Roast the Turkey

Place the turkey breast-side up in a roasting pan.
Tent loosely with foil and roast in a preheated oven at 325°F.
Calculate roasting time as 15 minutes per pound.
Remove foil for the last 30 minutes to achieve golden, crispy skin.

Step 4: Prepare the Stuffing

Mix bread cubes with celery, onion, chicken broth, sage, salt, and pepper.
Bake separately in a covered dish for 30 minutes, then uncover for another 15 minutes to crisp the top.

Step 5: Make the Gravy

While the turkey rests, pour drippings into a measuring cup and skim the fat.
In a saucepan, combine 3 tbsp fat with 3 tbsp flour over medium heat, whisking until golden.
Gradually add stock, whisking constantly. Simmer until thickened.

Step 6: Rest and Carve

Let the turkey rest for 20 minutes before carving to retain juices.
Serve with stuffing and gravy.

Best Way to Serve:

Serve the roast turkey on a large platter surrounded by fresh herbs and citrus for decoration. Pair with classic holiday sides like mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, green beans, and warm rolls. Pour gravy over the sliced turkey and stuffing for an irresistible meal.

This Roast Turkey with Stuffing and Gravy recipe is more than just food—it’s the heart of the holiday season. The combination of juicy meat, flavorful stuffing, and velvety gravy will have everyone asking for seconds. Even if you’re a first-time turkey roaster, following these steps ensures you’ll deliver a dish worthy of applause. Make this meal the highlight of your festivities and savor the moments with your loved ones around the table.

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