The Perfect Thanksgiving Turkey

1h 45m
Serves 1
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Directions

  1. 1Spatchcock the turkey by removing the backbone with shears.
  2. 2Flatten the turkey out by applying pressure to the breastbone.
  3. 3Separate the skin from the flesh to prepare for adding compound butter later.
  4. 4Combine salt and baking powder for the dry brine.
  5. 5Season all sides of the turkey with the dry brine.
  6. 6Add black pepper to the turkey.
  7. 7Refrigerate the turkey overnight.
  8. 8Chop rosemary.
  9. 9Remove sage leaves from the stem.
  10. 10Combine butter with chopped rosemary, sage, minced garlic, and barbecue rub to make compound butter.
  11. 11Add the compound butter under the skin of the turkey.
  12. 12Apply a thin layer of oil over the turkey.
  13. 13Place the turkey in a 450 F oven.
  14. 14Pull the turkey when the breast reaches an internal temperature of 150 F.
  15. 15Let the turkey rest for 15 minutes.
  16. 16Carve the turkey.
  17. 17Pour butter drippings over the carved turkey.

Ingredients

  • turkey
  • salt
  • baking powder
  • black pepper
  • rosemary
  • sage
  • garlic
  • barbecue rub
  • butter
  • oil

Equipment

shearsknifebowlwire rackbaking panoven

Tips

  • Spatchcocking allows for more even cooking and crispy skin, and helps achieve optimal internal temperatures for both dark and white meat.
  • Dry brining is an important step, but avoid if the turkey is pre-brined.
  • The compound butter imparts flavor under the skin and provides buttery herb drippings for basting.
  • Pull the turkey from the oven when the breast hits 150 F; it will carry over to 160 F during resting for a fully pasteurized and juicy turkey.