Name: Best Garlic Herb Roasted Turkey Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 4 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12-16 pound turkey, thawed for 3-4 days in the fridge if previously frozen; 2 gallons cold water (8 quarts or 32 cups); 1 1/2 cups coarse kosher salt or 1 cup table salt; 1 1/4 cups dark brown sugar, packed; 2 Tablespoons whole black peppercorns; 2 Tablespoons allspice berries; 3-5 sprigs fresh thyme; 2-3 sprigs fresh rosemary; 5 cloves garlic, smashed; 1-2 oranges, rind peeled off in ribbons; 2 bay leaves; 1 clean 5-gallon bucket or other large container; 1/2 cup salted butter, softened; 2 Tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped; 2 Tablespoons fresh thyme, finely chopped; 2 Tablespoons fresh oregano, finely chopped; 2 Tablespoons fresh tarragon, finely chopped; 5-6 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper; 1 apple, quartered; 1 medium onion, peeled and quartered; 1 large carrot, roughly chopped; 1 celery stick, roughly chopped; 2-3 Tablespoons olive oil

If you’re hunting for the Best Garlic Herb Roasted Turkey Recipe that will instantly become the star of your holiday table, you’ve just struck gold. This recipe is all about coaxing out that perfect golden-brown, crispy skin while locking in succulent, juicy meat that bursts with fragrant herbs and garlic in every bite. From the tender brined bird to the rich garlic herb butter rub, it’s a symphony of flavors that makes the whole cooking experience a joy, and the feast, unforgettable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A raw whole turkey is placed in the center of a silver metal baking tray on a white marbled surface. The turkey skin is pale with a light texture, and both wings and legs lay flat on the tray. Inside the open cavity of the turkey, two large pieces of vegetables are visible: an orange carrot on the left and a greenish-yellow apple slice on the right. Two woman's hands are seen gently tucking the vegetables into the turkey’s cavity, adding a sense of careful preparation. The photo is bright with soft natural light. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic behind this Best Garlic Herb Roasted Turkey Recipe is in its simple yet essential ingredients, each playing a pivotal role in uplifting the turkey’s flavor and texture. From the savory garlic and fresh herbs to the sweet touch of brown sugar in the brine, these ingredients come together to create a perfectly balanced, mouthwatering roast.

Turkey (12-16 pounds): Your centerpiece, thawed for several days to ensure even cooking and juiciness.
Cold water (2 gallons): The base for the brine, helping the turkey stay moist and tender.
Coarse kosher salt (1 ½ cups): Essential for the brine to season the bird deeply.
Dark brown sugar (1 ¼ cups): Adds a subtle sweetness that balances savory notes.
Whole black peppercorns (2 tablespoons): Bring gentle heat and piquancy to the brine.
Allspice berries (2 tablespoons): Contribute aromatic warmth and complexity.
Fresh thyme and rosemary (3-5 and 2-3 sprigs): Classic herbs that infuse the turkey with earthy, fragrant notes.
Smashed garlic cloves (5): Deliver that luscious garlic punch everyone loves.
Orange rind ribbons (from 1-2 oranges): Add a lively citrus brightness to the brine.
Bay leaves (2): Enhance depth of flavor with a subtle herbal aroma.
Salted butter (½ cup, softened): The luxurious base of the garlic herb butter rub for moist, flavorful meat.
Chopped fresh rosemary, thyme, oregano, and tarragon (2 tablespoons each): A fresh herb blend that creates a vibrant and irresistible crust.
Minced garlic (5-6 cloves): Intensifies the garlic-herb flavor throughout the turkey.
Kosher salt and coarsely ground black pepper (1 teaspoon each): Season the butter rub perfectly.
Aromatics like apple, onion, carrot, and celery: Stuffing the cavity with these adds moisture and delicate sweetness as the turkey roasts.
Olive oil (2-3 tablespoons): Helps crisp the skin and adds a lovely sheen during roasting.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Best Garlic Herb Roasted Turkey Recipe

Step 1: Brining the Turkey

Start by crafting a flavorful brine: combine water, kosher salt, brown sugar, peppercorns, allspice berries, fresh thyme and rosemary, smashed garlic cloves, orange rind ribbons, and bay leaves in a large 5-gallon food-grade bucket or container. This brine is the secret weapon that ensures your turkey stays incredibly juicy and infused with those aromatic flavors. Remove the neck and giblets, discard or save them, and submerge your thawed turkey entirely in the brine. Keep it refrigerated or chilled with ice, and let it soak for 12 to 24 hours. This patiently marinating step sets the stage for a perfectly seasoned bird.

Step 2: Preparing the Garlic Herb Butter

While your turkey is brining, prepare the luscious garlic herb butter rub by mixing softened salted butter with finely chopped rosemary, thyme, oregano, tarragon, minced garlic, kosher salt, and cracked black pepper. Using a fork or food processor, mash everything into a fragrant, smooth paste. This herbaceous butter is going to be lovingly tucked underneath the turkey skin, delivering an explosion of flavor directly into the breast meat.

Step 3: Applying the Butter and Stuffing Aromatics

Remove the turkey from the brine and pat it completely dry inside and out with plenty of paper towels—this helps achieve crispy skin. Gently loosen the skin over the breast by sliding your fingers underneath, careful to keep it intact. Spread about two-thirds of your garlic herb butter underneath the skin on both sides, massaging it evenly. Use the remaining butter to coat the inside of the cavity. Then, stuff the cavity with quartered apple, onion, carrot, and celery for delightful herbal moisture while roasting. Tie the legs together and tuck the wings underneath for neat roasting. If you like, refrigerate the turkey overnight to let the flavors mingle even more deeply.

Step 4: Roasting Your Turkey to Perfection

Remove the turkey from the fridge 30 to 60 minutes before roasting to bring it to room temperature. Preheat your oven to 450°F. Make a foil shield to protect the breast by folding a large square into a triangle shape. Rub olive oil lightly all over the bird to promote crisp skin. Place the turkey breast side up in a roasting pan and roast for 20 minutes at 450°F to jump-start browning. Then lower the oven temperature to 350°F and place your foil shield over the breast. Roast the turkey for about 13 minutes per pound, removing the shield and basting every 30 minutes. Take the shield off during the last 30 minutes unless the bird is already perfectly golden. Check for doneness: thighs should read 170°F, breast 160°F. Rest your turkey tented loosely with foil for 30 to 60 minutes before carving.

How to Serve Best Garlic Herb Roasted Turkey Recipe

A whole raw chicken lies on a black roasting pan with a metal rack inside. The chicken's skin is pale and slightly shiny, showing some green herb seasoning under the surface. The legs are tied together with string at the tip. Inside the chicken's cavity, visible through the opening, are a couple of colorful vegetables, including a red carrot and a green vegetable. The pan is placed on a flat surface with a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A beautiful roasted turkey deserves equally stunning garnishes. Fresh sprigs of rosemary and thyme scattered around the carved turkey combine with bright pops of fresh cranberries or sliced oranges to create a festive and inviting presentation. These simple touches not only look gorgeous but also echo the flavors infused during roasting.

Side Dishes

This Best Garlic Herb Roasted Turkey Recipe pairs wonderfully with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes and rich turkey gravy made from the drippings, roasted Brussels sprouts for a slight crunch, and tangy cranberry sauce to balance the savory richness. Don’t forget some buttery dinner rolls to mop up every last bit of deliciousness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a modern twist, consider carving your turkey into thick slices and layering them with herb leaves on a large wooden board for a rustic, shareable look. You can also arrange meat along with roasted vegetables and colorful fruit variants on a vibrant platter, making it easy and fun to serve buffet-style during festive gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your feast, store leftover turkey in airtight containers within two hours of cooking to keep flavors fresh. Sliced or shredded turkey keeps best and can be refrigerated for up to 4 days, perfect for quick sandwiches or salads during the week.

Freezing

If you want to keep turkey longer, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags or containers with as much air removed as possible. Properly stored, your turkey can last up to 3 months, letting you enjoy that delicious Best Garlic Herb Roasted Turkey Recipe even on a busy day far after the big meal.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm turkey slices in a covered dish with a bit of broth or gravy in the oven or microwave to retain moisture. Avoid overcooking to preserve juiciness. Leftover turkey reheated this way tastes almost as incredible as freshly carved!

FAQs

Can I brine the turkey for less than 12 hours?

While you can brine for a shorter period, at least 12 hours is best to deeply season and moisten the turkey. Less time means fewer flavor benefits, though even a quick brine helps improve juiciness.

Is it necessary to separate the skin for the garlic herb butter?

Absolutely! Sliding the butter under the skin puts the flavors directly in contact with the meat, keeping it moist and infusing every bite with fresh herbs and garlic.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs?

Fresh herbs really bring this recipe to life, but in a pinch, dried herbs can be used—just use about a third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.

How do I know when the turkey is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer for the most reliable check: 170°F in the thigh and 160°F in the breast are your targets. After resting, the temperature will rise slightly, ensuring juicy, safe-to-eat meat.

Can this recipe be adapted for a larger turkey?

Definitely! For larger birds, increase the amount of garlic herb butter proportionally and extend roasting time accordingly, always relying on a thermometer to guide you.

Final Thoughts

This Best Garlic Herb Roasted Turkey Recipe is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of flavors, care, and tradition wrapped in crispy, golden skin and juicy, tender meat. Sharing this dish will fill your home with warmth and joy, making any occasion feel extra special. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will be your go-to turkey for many happy holidays to come!

Best Garlic Herb Roasted Turkey Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need