INTRODUCTION

There’s something undeniably comforting about a roasted turkey, especially when it’s infused with the delightful combination of fresh herbs and the subtle sweetness of apples. This Apple & Herb Roasted Turkey is a showstopper, with golden, crispy skin, juicy, tender meat, and a depth of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds. The blend of rosemary, thyme, and sage, paired with the light sweetness of apples, creates a savory and slightly sweet profile that will become your new favorite way to cook turkey. Whether you’re preparing for Thanksgiving, a holiday feast, or just a cozy Sunday dinner, this turkey is guaranteed to impress.

I first came across this recipe years ago while experimenting with new ways to make turkey. I was tired of the same old roast and wanted something that felt fresh yet classic, something that would really make the kitchen smell like home during the holidays. The apples and herbs turned out to be the perfect marriage of flavors, and it’s been a family favorite ever since. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together around the table, and every bite makes you feel like you’re getting a warm hug from the inside.

Why You’ll Love This Apple & Herb Roasted Turkey

This turkey is truly a standout in both flavor and ease. Here are just a few reasons why it’s a must-try:

Easy to prepare: You don’t need to be a master chef to pull off this beautiful turkey. The steps are straightforward, and while it takes time to roast, most of it is hands-off.
Packed with flavor: The combination of fresh herbs, apples, and aromatics ensures every bite of turkey is juicy, flavorful, and fragrant. The apples lend a subtle sweetness that beautifully complements the savory notes of the turkey and herbs.
Perfect for any gathering: Whether it’s a holiday celebration, a Sunday dinner, or even just a weeknight meal, this roasted turkey is versatile and impressive.
Moist, tender meat: With the right preparation, this turkey stays juicy and tender, ensuring that every slice is full of flavor. Plus, the skin crisps up beautifully for the perfect crunch.

Preparation Time and Servings

Total Time: 3 hours (including roasting time)
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: This recipe serves about 8-10 people.

Nutrition Facts

Calories per serving: 350
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fat: 20g

(These values are approximations and may vary based on specific ingredients used.)

Ingredients

This Apple & Herb Roasted Turkey uses simple, fresh ingredients that really elevate the flavor of the dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 whole turkey (about 12 pounds), thawed if frozen
2 tablespoons olive oil (for drizzling)
2 apples (preferably a sweet variety like Honeycrisp or Gala), quartered
1 onion, quartered
4 garlic cloves, smashed
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
Fresh herbs: 4 sprigs of rosemary, 4 sprigs of thyme, 2 sprigs of sage
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1/4 cup butter (room temperature, for basting)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Turkey

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This is the perfect temperature for slow-roasting a turkey to ensure it cooks evenly and stays moist.
While the oven is heating, remove the giblets from the turkey’s cavity and pat the turkey dry with paper towels. This will help the skin crisp up beautifully during roasting.
Tip: Drying the turkey is essential for achieving that golden, crispy skin. Don’t skip this step!

2. Prepare the Herb Butter

In a small bowl, combine room-temperature butter, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, chopped sage, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together to form a fragrant herb butter that will coat the turkey.
Gently lift the skin of the turkey from the breast area and rub the herb butter underneath the skin, making sure to spread it evenly. This helps to infuse the meat with flavor and ensures that it stays juicy. You can also rub some of the butter on top of the skin.

3. Stuff the Turkey

Place the quartered apples, quartered onion, and garlic cloves inside the turkey’s cavity. These aromatics will infuse the turkey with additional flavor as it roasts.
If you have any leftover herbs (like rosemary or thyme), you can stuff them in the cavity too for extra flavor. The herbs and apples will help keep the turkey moist and add a subtle sweetness during roasting.

4. Roast the Turkey

Place the prepared turkey on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan. Drizzle the olive oil over the turkey and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the roasting pan. This will keep the turkey moist and create a lovely flavorful base for basting.
Roast the turkey in the preheated oven. For a 12-pound turkey, you’ll want to roast it for about 2 1/2 to 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the thigh (without touching the bone).
Baste the turkey every 45 minutes or so with the pan juices to keep it moist and flavorful.

5. Rest the Turkey

Once the turkey is done roasting, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 20-30 minutes before carving. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it tender and juicy.

6. Carve and Serve

After resting, carve the turkey into slices, making sure to remove the skin first if desired. Serve with the roasted apples and herbs from the cavity.

How to Serve

Here are a few ideas for serving this Apple & Herb Roasted Turkey:

Serve with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a classic holiday spread.
Gravy: Use the pan drippings to make a delicious gravy, adding a bit more chicken broth to thicken it if needed.
For a lighter meal, serve alongside a fresh arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette.
Cranberry sauce complements the sweet notes from the apples beautifully.

Additional Tips

Here are a few tips to make sure your turkey comes out perfect:

Don’t overcook the turkey: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your turkey is cooked perfectly. Overcooking will lead to dry meat, so keep a close eye on the temperature.
Basting is key: Baste the turkey every 30-45 minutes with the pan juices to keep it moist. This will also help achieve that beautiful golden skin.
Use room temperature butter: Room-temperature butter spreads more evenly and will coat the turkey better than cold butter.
Rest the turkey: Don’t skip the resting period! It ensures the juices stay inside the meat, making every bite juicy.
Season generously: Make sure you season the turkey both inside and outside for the best flavor.

Recipe Variations

This Apple & Herb Roasted Turkey is very versatile, and you can adapt it to suit your tastes or dietary needs:

Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so it’s perfect for anyone with dietary restrictions.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the herb butter if you like a bit of heat in your turkey.
Herb Variations: If you don’t have all the herbs listed, feel free to swap in others like oregano, basil, or tarragon.

Serving Suggestions

This Apple & Herb Roasted Turkey pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides:

Mashed Potatoes or Buttermilk Biscuits make great sides that complement the turkey’s flavors.
Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts roasted in olive oil and a bit of garlic would be a perfect accompaniment.
Apple Cider or White Wine: A glass of apple cider or a crisp white wine like Chardonnay would pair beautifully with the apple flavors in the turkey.

Freezing and Storage

This turkey is perfect for leftovers!

Storage: Store leftover turkey in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: You can freeze cooked turkey for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or store it in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm in the oven.

Special Equipment

Roasting Rack: Helps elevate the turkey for even cooking.
Meat Thermometer: A must for ensuring your turkey is cooked perfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use a frozen turkey for this recipe?

Yes, you can use a frozen turkey, but it’s important to allow enough time for the turkey to thaw before cooking. The safest way to thaw a turkey is in the refrigerator. For every 4-5 pounds of turkey, plan for about 24 hours of thawing time. So, a 12-pound turkey will need about 3 days in the fridge to thaw completely. Never thaw turkey at room temperature as it can lead to bacterial growth.

2. What if I don’t have fresh herbs?

If fresh herbs aren’t available, you can use dried herbs. Use about one-third the amount of dried herbs as you would fresh. For example, for 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary, use about 1 tablespoon of dried rosemary. Just be aware that dried herbs are more concentrated, so adjust accordingly. If you’re using dried, mix them into the butter as you would fresh herbs.

3. How can I make sure my turkey stays moist during roasting?

The key to keeping your turkey moist is to avoid overcooking it. A meat thermometer is your best friend here—ensure the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. Also, remember to baste the turkey every 30-45 minutes with its own juices. This helps keep the skin crispy while locking in the moisture.

4. Can I make this turkey ahead of time?

While turkey is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, you can prepare parts of the recipe ahead of time. The herb butter can be made and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also stuff the turkey with the apples, onions, and garlic a day ahead, keeping it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook it. If you’re really pressed for time, you could even roast the turkey a day ahead, carve it, and then reheat it in the oven.

5. How do I make gravy with the pan drippings?

Making gravy from the pan drippings is easy! After removing the turkey from the roasting pan, pour the pan drippings into a saucepan, leaving the solids behind. Place the pan over medium heat and whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour. Let it cook for about 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste, then gradually add 1-2 cups of chicken broth or the remaining pan juices. Keep whisking until it thickens to your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Conclusion

This Apple & Herb Roasted Turkey is everything you could want in a holiday dish—flavorful, juicy, and beautifully golden. With its sweet apple and herb-infused flavors, it’s a turkey that stands out from the crowd. Whether you’re hosting a big holiday dinner or preparing a cozy family meal, this recipe will definitely become a staple in your kitchen. The tender, savory meat and crispy skin are the perfect balance of comfort and elegance. You’ll love how easy it is to make, and your guests will love the delicious result!