Ina Garten’s Perfect Roast Turkey (Throwback) | Barefoot Contessa
As the Thanksgiving holiday approaches, many of us start to think about that centerpiece of the feast: the turkey. If you want a juicy, golden-brown turkey that will impress your friends and family, look no further than Ina Garten’s Perfect Roast Turkey. With her signature style, Ina makes the process seem effortless, turning this Thanksgiving staple into a show-stopping dish.
Ingredients
To create this culinary masterpiece, you’ll need:
- 1/4 pound (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme leaves
- 1 fresh turkey (10 to 12 pounds)
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1 large bunch fresh thyme
- 1 whole lemon, halved
- 1 Spanish onion, quartered
- 1 head garlic, halved crosswise
Directions
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Preheat the Oven: Start by heating your oven to 350 degrees F. This consistent temperature will help achieve that perfect roast.
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Prepare the Butter Mixture: In a small saucepan, melt the butter. Once melted, mix in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and thyme leaves. Set this aromatic concoction aside to infuse the turkey with flavor.
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Prepare the Turkey: Carefully remove the giblets from the turkey, rinsing it inside and out. Remove any excess fat or leftover pinfeathers before patting the turkey dry. Place it in a large roasting pan.
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Season the Cavity: Generously sprinkle kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper inside the cavity. This step is crucial for ensuring every bite is flavorful.
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Stuff the Turkey: Fill the cavity with the bunch of thyme, the halved lemon, quartered onion, and garlic. This blend will emit delightful fragrances as the turkey roasts.
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Brush and Tie: Brush the outside of the turkey with the butter mixture and season it again with salt and pepper. To help it cook evenly, tie the legs together with kitchen string and tuck the wing tips under the body.
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Roasting Time: Roast the turkey for about 2 1/2 hours, or until the juices run clear when cutting between the leg and thigh. This step is vital for achieving that perfectly cooked turkey.
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Rest and Slice: Once cooked, carefully transfer the turkey to a cutting board and tent it loosely with aluminum foil. Allow it to rest for 20 minutes to let the juices redistribute, ensuring every slice is juicy and tender.
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Serve: After resting, slice the turkey and serve it alongside your favorite Thanksgiving sides.
With Ina’s Perfect Roast Turkey recipe, you can bring the taste of the Hamptons to your home this Thanksgiving. Her approach combines simple techniques with high-quality ingredients, ensuring a festive experience that’s satisfying and memorable. Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned pro, this recipe will make your turkey the star of the holiday feast. Happy cooking!
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Video “Ina Garten's Perfect Roast Turkey (Throwback) | Barefoot Contessa | Food Network” was uploaded on 10/22/2025 to Youtube Channel Food Network