Ah, the joy of festive meals! There’s something so magical about gathering around the table, sharing laughter, and indulging in delicious food. My absolute favorite centerpiece for these celebrations is an oven roasted stuffed turkey. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience, a tradition that fills the home with warmth and mouthwatering aromas. Imagine the crispy, golden skin, the savory stuffing bursting with flavor, and the juicy meat just waiting to be carved. Trust me, this recipe is a true showstopper that will impress your family and friends. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion, this oven roasted stuffed turkey is guaranteed to bring everyone together. Plus, the leftovers? Oh boy, they’re perfect for sandwiches or soups! So, let’s dive into how to create this masterpiece that will fill your heart and belly with joy.
Ingredients for Oven Roasted Stuffed Turkey
- 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs) – Make sure it’s thawed if it’s been in the freezer!
- 2 cups bread crumbs – I prefer using day-old bread for a bit more texture.
- 1 cup chopped onions – Adds that lovely sweetness when roasted.
- 1 cup chopped celery – This gives a nice crunch and flavor to the stuffing.
- 1/2 cup melted butter – Because everything’s better with butter, right?
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley – Fresh herbs make all the difference!
- 1 tablespoon sage – A classic herb for turkey, it’s a must-have.
- 1 tablespoon thyme – Another aromatic herb that complements the flavors beautifully.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Don’t be shy, season generously!
- 4 cups chicken broth – This keeps the turkey moist and flavorful.
How to Prepare Oven Roasted Stuffed Turkey
Preparing an oven roasted stuffed turkey might seem daunting, but I promise, it’s easier than you think! Let’s break it down step by step so you can create a delicious centerpiece for your festive meal.
Prepping the Turkey
First things first, if your turkey is frozen, you’ll want to give it ample time to thaw in the fridge—this could take up to 3 days for a 12-14 lbs turkey, so plan ahead! Once it’s thawed, remove the giblets and neck from the cavity (don’t forget this step; they can be a surprise if left inside!). Rinse the turkey under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps the skin get crispy when roasting. Now, season the inside of the turkey generously with salt and pepper—it’s a great way to start building flavor!
Making the Stuffing
Now onto the stuffing! In a large bowl, combine your bread crumbs, chopped onions, chopped celery, melted butter, parsley, sage, and thyme. Mix everything together until it’s well combined, and don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste. I love using day-old bread as it gives a nice texture to the stuffing. If your mixture feels a bit dry, add a splash of chicken broth until it’s moist but not soggy. Let it cool a bit before you stuff it into the turkey; this is super important—nobody wants to cook raw stuffing inside the bird!
Stuffing the Turkey
Now, let’s stuff that turkey! Gently take your stuffing mixture and pack it into the cavity, but don’t overstuff it; you want it snug but not bursting at the seams. If you have leftover stuffing, you can bake it separately in a dish for a crispy topping. Remember, it’s crucial to ensure the stuffing reaches a safe temperature of 165°F (75°C) when cooked, so keep that in mind!
Roasting the Turkey
Okay, it’s showtime! Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and place the turkey on a rack in a roasting pan. Pour the chicken broth into the pan to keep everything moist while roasting. Cover the turkey loosely with foil to prevent it from browning too quickly. You’ll roast it for about 3 hours, then remove the foil and give it another hour to achieve that beautiful golden-brown color. Remember to check the internal temperature in the thickest part of the thigh—it should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s safely cooked. Once it’s done, let it rest for at least 30 minutes before carving. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, making for a juicy turkey!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful: The combination of savory herbs and buttery stuffing creates an explosion of flavor in every bite.
- Juicy: Roasting the turkey with broth ensures it stays moist, resulting in tender, juicy meat that everyone will rave about.
- Great for Gatherings: This oven roasted stuffed turkey is perfect for family gatherings and festive occasions, making it the star of your holiday table.
- Easy to Follow: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, even novice cooks can master this recipe.
- Leftover Magic: The leftovers are just as delicious, perfect for sandwiches, soups, or even a turkey omelet!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s chat about some pro tips to ensure your oven roasted stuffed turkey turns out absolutely perfect! First up, think about injecting flavor. You can use a marinade or a simple mix of melted butter and herbs to inject into the meat, giving it that extra kick of flavor throughout. Trust me, it makes a difference!
Next, don’t skip the resting time. After your turkey is done roasting, let it rest for at least 30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making every slice super juicy and tender. And speaking of doneness, always rely on a meat thermometer! The thickest part of the thigh should reach at least 165°F (75°C) for safe eating. If you’re unsure, it’s better to check a couple of spots. Following these tips will have your turkey stealing the show at your festive feast!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying an oven roasted stuffed turkey, it’s nice to have an idea of what you’re indulging in, right? Here are the typical nutritional values per serving (about one slice) to help you out. Keep in mind that these are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes you use:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 30g
So, while you’re enjoying that delicious turkey, you can feel good knowing it’s packed with protein and full of flavor. Happy feasting!
FAQ Section
How long do I cook the turkey?
Great question! The general rule of thumb for cooking an oven roasted stuffed turkey is about 13-15 minutes per pound at 325°F (165°C). For a turkey weighing between 12-14 lbs, you’re looking at approximately 3.5 to 4 hours total cooking time. Just make sure to check that the internal temperature in the thickest part of the thigh reaches a safe 165°F (75°C) before you take it out of the oven.
Can I make the stuffing ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare your stuffing a day in advance. Just mix all your ingredients together, and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to stuff the turkey. Make sure to let it cool completely before stuffing, as hot stuffing can increase the risk of bacteria growth. If you have any leftover stuffing, it’s a great idea to bake it separately in a dish—this way, you get that delicious crispy top!
What should I serve with oven roasted stuffed turkey?
Ah, the sides! They’re just as important as the turkey itself! I love serving my oven roasted stuffed turkey with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, rich gravy, and roasted seasonal vegetables. Don’t forget a tangy cranberry sauce to cut through the richness! A fresh green salad or some buttery rolls are also fantastic additions to round out your festive meal. Your guests will love the spread!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
After the festivities, you’ll likely have some delicious oven roasted stuffed turkey leftovers, and trust me, you’ll want to keep them in tip-top shape! First, let the turkey cool completely before storing it. Once cooled, carve the turkey into slices and place them in an airtight container. Make sure to store any stuffing separately to avoid sogginess. You can keep the turkey and stuffing in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
When it’s time to enjoy those leftovers, reheating is key! Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and place the turkey slices in a baking dish. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep them moist, and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-30 minutes, or until warmed through. If you’re reheating stuffing, just pop it in the oven until it’s hot and crispy on top. Enjoy every last bite!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your oven roasted stuffed turkey, the right sides can elevate the entire meal! I absolutely love pairing it with creamy mashed potatoes—there’s something about that buttery goodness that just complements the turkey perfectly. Don’t forget a rich, homemade gravy to drizzle over everything; it ties the dish together beautifully!
Another favorite of mine is roasted seasonal vegetables, like carrots and Brussels sprouts, which add a pop of color and nutrition to your plate. And let’s not overlook the classic cranberry sauce! Its tangy sweetness cuts through the richness of the turkey and stuffing. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can also be a lovely addition, bringing a refreshing crunch. Trust me, these sides will not only enhance your oven roasted stuffed turkey but will have your guests coming back for seconds!
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Oven Roasted Stuffed Turkey: A Comforting Classic for Gatherings
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A flavorful and juicy oven roasted stuffed turkey perfect for festive meals.
Ingredients
- 1 whole turkey (12–14 lbs)
- 2 cups bread crumbs
- 1 cup chopped onions
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon sage
- 1 tablespoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- In a large bowl, mix bread crumbs, onions, celery, butter, parsley, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff the turkey cavity with the mixture.
- Place the turkey on a rack in a roasting pan.
- Pour chicken broth into the pan.
- Cover the turkey with foil and roast for 3 hours.
- Remove the foil and roast for an additional hour to brown.
- Check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Let the turkey rest for 30 minutes before carving.
Notes
- For added flavor, inject the turkey with marinade before roasting.
- Let the stuffing cool before putting it in the turkey.
- Save leftover turkey for sandwiches or soups.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: oven roasted stuffed turkey, holiday turkey, roasted turkey recipe