Roast Turkey with Stuffing: A Classic Holiday Favorite

Few dishes embody the spirit of the holidays quite like a beautifully roasted turkey with stuffing. This iconic centerpiece graces tables during Thanksgiving, Christmas, and other celebratory gatherings, bringing families and friends together with its irresistible aroma and flavor. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a first-time host, preparing a roast turkey with stuffing is a rewarding culinary adventure. Here’s everything you need to know to create this masterpiece.

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Ingredients

For the Turkey:

• 1 whole turkey (12-15 lbs), thawed if frozen

• 3 tbsp olive oil or melted butter

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary

• 2 sprigs fresh thyme

• 1 lemon, halved

• 1 onion, quartered

• 3 garlic cloves, smashed

For the Stuffing:

• 8 cups cubed day-old bread (sourdough, white, or a mix)

• 1 cup chopped celery

• 1 cup chopped onion

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter

• 2 cups chicken or turkey stock

• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley

• 1 tbsp fresh sage, minced (or 1 tsp dried)

• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Stuffing

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and celery, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.

3. In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes, sautéed onion and celery, parsley, sage, and thyme. Gradually add the stock, tossing gently until the mixture is moistened but not soggy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 2: Prepare the Turkey

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).

2. Remove the turkey’s neck and giblets (reserve for gravy, if desired). Rinse the turkey inside and out under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.

3. Loosely stuff the cavity with prepared stuffing, ensuring not to overpack, as the stuffing will expand during cooking.

4. Place the lemon halves, onion quarters, garlic cloves, rosemary, and thyme sprigs inside the cavity alongside the stuffing for added flavor.

5. Rub the turkey’s skin with olive oil or melted butter. Season generously with salt and pepper.

6. Tuck the wings under the bird and tie the legs together with kitchen twine.

Step 3: Roast the Turkey

1. Place the turkey breast-side up on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan.

2. Roast the turkey in the preheated oven, basting every 30 minutes with pan juices, until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh (not touching bone) reads 165°F (74°C). This typically takes about 15 minutes per pound.

3. If the skin begins to brown too quickly, tent the turkey with aluminum foil.

Step 4: Rest and Serve

1. Once fully cooked, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for at least 20-30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist, tender meat.

2. Remove the stuffing from the cavity and transfer it to a serving dish. Carve the turkey and arrange it on a platter for serving.

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Tips for Success

• Thaw Properly: If using a frozen turkey, allow ample time for thawing in the refrigerator—approximately 24 hours for every 4-5 pounds of turkey.

• Use a Thermometer: Always rely on a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey and stuffing are cooked to safe temperatures.

• Make Extra Stuffing: If you love stuffing, consider baking some in a separate dish alongside the turkey for additional servings.

• Resting is Key: Don’t skip the resting step, as it’s crucial for a juicy turkey.

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With this comprehensive guide, your roast turkey with stuffing is sure to be the highlight of your holiday feast. Serve it alongside classic sides like mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and green beans, and prepare to impress your guests with a meal they’ll remember for years to come. Happy cooking!