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Thanksgiving is a cherished time of year, steeped in tradition and filled with family gatherings, feasting, and gratitude. At the heart of this celebration lies the turkey, often the centerpiece of the dining table. While many families have their go-to turkey recipes passed down through generations, the quest for a standout turkey preparation can lead culinary enthusiasts to explore new horizons. Enter Cowboy Butter Turkey—a delectable, juicy alternative that promises to elevate your Thanksgiving feast.

Cowboy Butter Turkey

Elevate your Thanksgiving feast with this Cowboy Butter Turkey recipe, a delicious twist on the classic turkey dish. Discover how to infuse your turkey with rich, savory flavor thanks to a delightful cowboy butter mixture that includes garlic, herbs, and spices. Perfect for impressing your family and friends, this recipe promises juicy meat and crispy skin.
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Ingredients
  

1 whole turkey (10-12 pounds)

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped

1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped

1 tablespoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1 tablespoon lemon zest

Salt and black pepper to taste

1 large onion, quartered

1 lemon, quartered

2 cups chicken broth

Instructions
 

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

    Prepare the Butter: In a medium bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, thyme, rosemary, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

      Prepare the Turkey: Remove the turkey from its packaging, and pat it dry with paper towels. Make sure to remove the giblets and neck from the cavity.

        Season the Turkey: Gently loosen the skin over the breast and thigh areas of the turkey using your fingers, being careful not to tear it. Spread a generous amount of the cowboy butter mixture under the skin. Rub any remaining butter all over the outside of the turkey, ensuring it is evenly coated.

          Stuff the Cavity: Stuff the turkey cavity with the quartered onion and lemon for additional flavor.

            Place in Roasting Pan: Place the turkey breast-side up on a rack in a large roasting pan. Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the pan to keep the turkey moist while roasting.

              Roast the Turkey: Cover the turkey loosely with aluminum foil and roast in the preheated oven for about 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured in the thickest part of the thigh. Remove the foil during the last 30-45 minutes of cooking to allow the skin to crisp up.

                Rest the Turkey: Once cooked, remove the turkey from the oven and allow it to rest for 20-30 minutes before carving. This helps the juices redistribute.

                  Carve and Serve: Carve the turkey and serve with your favorite sides, enjoying the rich, buttery flavor that the cowboy butter brings to the dish.

                    Prep Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 3 hours | Servings: 10-12