Ingredients
– 1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds), thawed
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves (or 2 teaspoons dried thyme)
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1 tablespoon black pepper
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 2 onions, quartered
– 4 carrots, chopped
– 4 celery stalks, chopped
– Fresh herbs (parsley, thyme) for stuffing (optional)
Instructions
Creating the Maple-Butter-Glazed Turkey is an exciting adventure. Follow these straightforward steps to ensure your turkey turns out perfect:
1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) to prepare for roasting.
2. Prepare the Turkey: Remove the turkey from the packaging, and ensure the cavity is empty. Pat it dry with paper towels for better browning.
3. Make the Maple Butter: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, maple syrup, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a smooth glaze.
4. Apply the Glaze: Gently lift the skin over the turkey breast and rub some of the maple butter mixture directly on the meat. Rub the remaining glaze all over the outside of the turkey.
5. Prepare the Roasting Pan: In a large roasting pan, place the quartered onions, chopped carrots, and celery. Pour in the chicken broth, creating a bed for the turkey. Place the turkey on top and optionally stuff the cavity with fresh herbs.
6. Roast the Turkey: Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the breast without touching the bone. Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
7. Baste Regularly: Every 30 minutes, baste the turkey with the pan juices, which helps to create a beautifully glazed and juicy bird.
8. Rest the Turkey: Once cooked, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 20-30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
9. Serve and Enjoy: Carve the turkey and serve with your favorite sides, making sure to drizzle some of the rich pan gravy over the meat for added goodness.
These carefully crafted steps help ensure your Maple-Butter-Glazed Turkey becomes a memorable dish for all your gatherings.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 to 2.5 hours
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8-10 servings
- Calories: Approximately 400-450 kcal per serving
- Fat: 25g
- Protein: 40g