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Turkey has long held a place of honor on the tables of holiday feasts, particularly during Thanksgiving and Christmas. Its role as the centerpiece of gatherings is not just a tradition; it's a culinary event that brings family and friends together. However, the quest for a truly memorable turkey recipe often leads home cooks to seek out ways to elevate the flavor and moisture of this beloved bird. Enter the Cowboy Butter Turkey—a dish that promises a juicy, flavor-packed turkey that will impress guests and elevate any holiday meal.

Cowboy Butter Turkey

Elevate your holiday feast with this irresistible Cowboy Butter Turkey recipe! Perfectly moist and bursting with flavor, this turkey is infused with a rich cowboy butter made from a medley of spices and fresh herbs. Say goodbye to dry turkey and hello to a culinary masterpiece that will impress family and friends alike. Ready to create unforgettable holiday memories? Click to explore the full recipe and make your dinner truly special!
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Ingredients
  

1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds), thawed

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

3 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

1 tablespoon garlic powder

1 tablespoon onion powder

2 teaspoons smoked paprika

1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon black pepper

Juice of 1 lemon

Zest of 1 lemon

Fresh herbs (rosemary and sage), for stuffing the turkey cavity

Instructions
 

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

    Prepare the Butter Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, chopped parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, thyme, salt, pepper, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix until well-blended and creamy.

      Prepare the Turkey: Remove the turkey giblets and neck from the inside cavity. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels. This helps ensure a crispy skin when roasting.

        Butter the Turkey: Carefully loosen the skin of the turkey from the breast and thighs using your fingers. Take half of the cowboy butter mixture and rub it directly onto the flesh under the skin. This infuses the turkey with flavor and moisture. Then, rub the remaining butter all over the outside of the turkey, ensuring an even coating.

          Stuff the Turkey: Place fresh herbs, such as rosemary and sage, into the cavity of the turkey to enhance the flavor while it cooks.

            Roast the Turkey: Place the turkey breast side up on a roasting rack inside a roasting pan. Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for approximately 13-15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) when measured in the thickest part of the thigh.

              Basting: Every 30 minutes, baste the turkey with the drippings in the pan to keep it moist and flavorful.

                Rest the Turkey: Once fully cooked, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for at least 20-30 minutes before carving. This helps the juices redistribute for a succulent final dish.

                  Carve and Serve: Carve the turkey into slices and arrange it on a large platter. Drizzle any remaining melted cowboy butter from the roasting pan over the turkey for an extra burst of flavor.

                    Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 4 hours | Servings: 10-12

                      - Presentation Tips: Serve the sliced turkey on a rustic wooden board, garnished with fresh herbs, slices of lemon, and surrounded by seasonal vegetables or cornbread stuffing for a festive look.