Barefoot Contessa Make-Ahead Roast Turkey

Barefoot Contessa Make-Ahead Roast Turkey is made with fresh thyme, lemon zest, a 12- to 14-pound fresh turkey, yellow onion, lemon quarters, and unsalted butter. This recipe creates a moist, flavorful roast turkey perfect for stress-free holiday entertaining. It takes about 3 hours and 35 minutes to prepare and serves 8.

Barefoot Contessa Make-Ahead Roast Turkey Ingredients

• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh thyme leaves
• Grated zest of 1 lemon
• 1 (12- to 14-pound) fresh turkey
• 1 large yellow onion, unpeeled and cut in eighths
• 1 lemon, quartered
• 8 sprigs fresh thyme
• 4 tablespoons (½ stick) unsalted butter, melted
• Make-Ahead Turkey Gravy

How To Make Barefoot Contessa Make-Ahead Roast Turkey

1. Prepare the Herb Rub: Combine 3 tablespoons of salt, minced thyme, and lemon zest two or three days before roasting.
2. Season the Turkey: Wash, drain, and pat the turkey dry. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of the salt mixture inside the cavity and rub the rest over the skin, including under wings and legs.
3. Refrigerate: Place turkey in a dish, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 1-2 days. The day before roasting, remove the plastic wrap and let the skin dry out in the fridge.
4. Preheat Oven: Set oven to 325°F. Discard any juices from the turkey dish and place turkey in a roasting pan.
5. Stuff and Tie: Fill cavity with onion, lemon quarters, and thyme sprigs. Tie legs and tuck wings with kitchen string.
6. Butter and Season: Brush turkey with melted butter and season generously with salt and pepper.
7. Roast the Turkey: Roast for 2 to 2¼ hours, until breast reaches 165°F. Remove and place on a platter.
8. Cook Dark Meat: Return legs and thighs to the pan, cover breast and carcass with foil, and roast for another 15–20 minutes until dark meat hits 180°F.
9. Rest the Turkey: Add dark meat to the platter, cover with foil, and rest at room temperature for 15 minutes.
10. Reheat and Serve: Pour ¼-inch gravy into a 12×16-inch ovenproof platter. Carve turkey, arrange on top of gravy, and reheat in oven for 15–30 minutes. Serve hot with extra gravy.

Recipe Tips

• Dry the Skin: Letting the turkey sit uncovered in the fridge helps achieve crispier skin.
• Use a Thermometer: Always check internal temperatures to ensure food safety.
• Plan Ahead: Pre-carving saves time and reduces stress during gatherings.
• Gravy Matters: A good layer of gravy under the turkey helps retain moisture.
• Resting Time: Allowing the turkey to rest before serving keeps it juicy.

What To Serve With Roast Turkey

This roast turkey pairs well with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and a rich, buttery dinner roll. A crisp white wine or sparkling apple cider complements the meal perfectly.

How To Store Roast Turkey

Refrigerate: Store leftover turkey in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Wrap sliced turkey tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then freeze in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Roast Turkey Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 450
• Total Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Sugar: 0g
• Protein: 58g
• Sodium: 780mg

FAQs

Can I use a frozen turkey?
Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge before seasoning.

How far in advance can I prep the turkey?
You can start the seasoning process up to 3 days before roasting.

Do I need to cover the turkey while roasting?
No, but you will cover parts of it with foil while finishing the dark meat.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Fresh thyme is preferred, but you can substitute with 1 teaspoon of dried thyme.

What if I don’t have an ovenproof platter?
Use a regular baking dish or transfer the turkey to a serving platter after reheating.

Try More Recipes:

• Barefoot Contessa French Chicken Pot Pies
• Barefoot Contessa Roast Chicken With Bread & Arugula Salad
• Barefoot Contessa Anna’s Tomato Tart