Description
This is the ultimate recipe for a perfectly juicy Thanksgiving turkey! With over 25 years of experience as a chef, I’ve perfected this brine recipe to keep your turkey moist and flavorful every time. Watch this simple video on how to make the perfect turkey every time.
Ingredients
Brine Recipe:
- 2 gallons water
- 1/4 cup kosher salt
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 10 garlic cloves, peeled
- 2 tablespoons peppercorns
Other Ingredients:
- Blackening seasoning As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this site. (as needed)
- 1 poultry pack (fresh sage, thyme, and rosemary)
- 2 cups chicken stock
- Mirepoix (2 carrots, 2 celery stalks, and 1 large onion, roughly chopped)
- 6 garlic cloves, peeled
Instructions
Step 1: Brine the Turkey
- In a large stockpot or food-safe container, combine the water, kosher salt, Worcestershire sauce, garlic cloves, and peppercorns.
- Submerge the turkey completely in the brine. If necessary, place a plate on top to keep it fully immersed.
- Refrigerate for 12-24 hours to allow the turkey to absorb flavor and moisture.
Step 2: Prep the Turkey for Cooking
- Remove the turkey from the brine and pat it completely dry with paper towels.
- Generously season the turkey inside and out with blackening seasoning As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this site..
- Stuff the turkey cavity with the poultry pack herbs (sage, thyme, and rosemary), along with mirepoix (carrots, celery, onions) and additional garlic cloves for extra aroma.
Step 3: Cooking the Turkey
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Place the turkey on a roasting rack inside a large roasting pan.
- Pour 2 cups of chicken stock into the bottom of the pan to keep the turkey moist and help create flavorful drippings for gravy.
- Cover the turkey loosely with foil and roast according to the following guideline:
- 15 minutes per pound (For example, a 15-lb turkey will take about 3 hours and 45 minutes).
- Remove the foil during the last 45 minutes of roasting to allow the skin to crisp and develop a deep golden color.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—the thickest part of the breast should read 165°F (74°C), and the thighs should reach 175°F (80°C).
- Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest at least 30 minutes before carving. This helps retain juices for a moist and tender turkey.
- Slice and serve with your favorite Thanksgiving sides!
Notes
Bonus Tip:
Use the turkey drippings in the roasting pan to make an incredible homemade gravy. Simply strain the liquid, reduce it in a saucepan, and thicken with a butter-flour roux.
Enjoy the best Thanksgiving turkey you’ve ever made! 🦃🍽️