Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsThe Southern GentlemanRoasted Turkey Recipe

Roasted Turkey Recipe

Time4h
Serves10

Traditional roasted turkey served with gravy.

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Ingredients

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Turkey

Method

Preparing the Turkey

  1. 1

    Preheat Oven

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

  2. 2

    Prepare Turkey

    Remove the turkey giblets and pat the turkey dry with paper towels.

  3. 3

    Season Turkey

    Rub the olive oil all over the turkey. Season generously with salt and black pepper, and then stuff the cavity with garlic, onion, carrots, celery, and herbs (thyme, rosemary, and sage).

  4. 4

    Truss the Turkey

    Tie the legs together with kitchen twine and tuck the wing tips under the body.

  5. 5

    Roast Turkey

    Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a roasting pan, breast side up. Roast in the preheated oven for about 13-15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

  6. 6

    Baste the Turkey

    Baste the turkey with drippings every 30 minutes for even browning.

  7. 7

    Rest the Turkey

    Once cooked, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for at least 20-30 minutes before carving.

Making the Gravy

  1. 8

    Collect Drippings

    After removing the turkey, pour the drippings from the roasting pan into a measuring cup, discarding excess fat.

  2. 9

    Make Roux

    In the same roasting pan, over medium heat, whisk together the drippings and flour until a smooth paste forms.

  3. 10

    Add Broth

    Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring to a simmer and allow to thicken for about 5-10 minutes.

  4. 11

    Season Gravy

    Season the gravy with salt and black pepper to taste.

  5. 12

    Serve

    Serve the gravy warm over sliced turkey.

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