This easy beginner’s turkey with stuffing recipe is perfect for those new to cooking Thanksgiving dinner. With simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions, you’ll have a delicious and impressive turkey on the table in no time. Let’s get started!
Ingredients for Easy Beginner’s Turkey with Stuffing
For the Turkey:
- 1 (12-pound) whole turkey, thawed if frozen
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups chicken or turkey broth
For the Stuffing:
- 8 cups cubed bread
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 2 teaspoons dried sage
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups chicken or turkey broth
How to Make Easy Beginner’s Turkey with Stuffing
Preparing the Turkey:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Prepare the Turkey: Remove the giblets and neck from the turkey cavity. Rinse the turkey inside and out with cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Season the inside of the turkey cavity with salt and pepper.
- Season the Turkey: Place the turkey breast side up on a rack in a roasting pan. Brush the turkey with melted butter and season with salt and pepper.
- Roast the Turkey: Roast the turkey in the preheated oven, basting every 30 minutes with chicken or turkey broth, until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh registers 165°F (75°C), about 3 to 4 hours.
- Let the Turkey Rest: Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 20 to 30 minutes before carving.
Making the Stuffing:
- Prepare the Bread: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the cubed bread on a baking sheet and bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until lightly toasted.
- Cook the Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and celery and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Mix the Stuffing: In a large bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes, cooked vegetables, sage, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir in enough chicken or turkey broth to moisten the bread cubes.
- Bake the Stuffing: Transfer the stuffing to a greased baking dish and cover with foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the top is crispy.
About the Main Ingredients
Turkey
Turkey is the star of the Thanksgiving table. It’s a lean protein that’s rich in flavor and perfect for roasting. Make sure to choose a turkey that’s the right size for your gathering.
Stuffing
Stuffing is a classic Thanksgiving side dish made with bread, vegetables, and herbs. It’s the perfect complement to turkey and adds a savory element to your holiday meal.
Enjoy Your Easy Beginner’s Turkey with Stuffing!
This easy beginner’s turkey with stuffing recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s the perfect dish for Thanksgiving dinner.
