Gordon Ramsay’s Roast Turkey At Home

Gordon Ramsay’s Roast Turkey is a masterclass in flavor, combining a perfectly seasoned bird with a rich herb butter and a mouthwatering gravy. This recipe ensures a juicy, golden-brown turkey that will impress your guests at any holiday gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Uses Gordon Ramsay’s signature method for juicy and flavorful turkey
• Simple but effective seasoning for a perfect balance of flavors
• Herb butter keeps the turkey moist and adds incredible taste
• A delicious gravy made from pan drippings for extra richness
• Ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive meal

this Recipe

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Turkey:

• Whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
• Unsalted butter (softened)
• Olive oil
• Sea salt and black pepper
• Lemon (zested and halved)
• Garlic (whole cloves, smashed)
• Fresh thyme, rosemary, and sage (chopped)
• Onion (quartered)
• Carrots (chopped)
• Celery stalks (chopped)

For the Gravy:

• Turkey drippings
• Chicken or turkey stock
• Flour
• White wine
• Worcestershire sauce
• Fresh herbs (thyme or rosemary)

Directions

1. Prepare the Turkey:

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Pat the turkey dry with paper towels and season the cavity with salt and pepper.
• Stuff the cavity with lemon halves, garlic cloves, and some fresh herbs.

2. Make the Herb Butter:

• In a bowl, mix softened butter with lemon zest, chopped herbs, salt, and pepper.
• Carefully lift the turkey skin and spread the butter underneath, ensuring an even coating.

3. Roast the Turkey:

• Place chopped onions, carrots, and celery in a roasting pan as a bed for the turkey.
• Place the turkey on top and drizzle with olive oil.
• Roast for 15 minutes at 425°F, then lower the temperature to 350°F (175°C).
• Baste the turkey every 30 minutes with pan juices.
• Roast for about 2.5 to 3 hours, or until a thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165°F (75°C).

4. Rest the Turkey:

• Remove from the oven and cover loosely with foil.
• Let it rest for at least 30 minutes before carving.

5. Make the Gravy:

• Place the roasting pan on the stovetop over medium heat.
• Sprinkle flour over the pan drippings and stir.
• Add white wine and let it reduce slightly.
• Pour in chicken or turkey stock, Worcestershire sauce, and fresh herbs.
• Simmer until thickened, then strain before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8-10 people
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 2.5 to 3 hours
• Resting Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: About 4 hours

Variations

• Citrus Twist: Add orange zest and juice to the herb butter for a brighter flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Mix smoked paprika or chili powder into the butter for a bold taste.
• Bacon-Wrapped Turkey: Cover the turkey breast with strips of bacon for extra moisture and flavor.
• Herb Infused Butter: Use sage butter for a richer, more aromatic turkey.
• Stuffing Option: Add a simple stuffing of breadcrumbs, sausage, and apples inside the turkey.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftover turkey in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze leftover turkey for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in an oven at 325°F (160°C) with a little broth to keep it moist.

FAQs

1. How do I keep my turkey from drying out?

Basting regularly and using an herb butter under the skin helps keep the meat moist.

2. Can I prep the turkey the night before?

Yes! You can season and butter the turkey a day ahead. Cover and refrigerate overnight.

3. Should I brine the turkey before roasting?

Brining is optional but adds extra moisture. You can dry brine with salt overnight.

4. How do I get crispy skin?

Roasting at a high temperature for the first 15 minutes helps achieve golden, crispy skin.

5. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, but fresh herbs provide a more vibrant flavor. If using dried, reduce the quantity.

6. What’s the best way to carve the turkey?

Let it rest first, then remove the legs, thighs, and wings before slicing the breast meat.

7. Can I use turkey drippings if they’re too oily?

Yes, simply skim off excess fat before making the gravy.

8. What sides pair well with this turkey?

Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, stuffing, and cranberry sauce are all excellent choices.

9. Can I cook this turkey in a roasting bag?

Yes! A roasting bag helps retain moisture but won’t give as crispy of a skin.

10. Can I use this recipe for a smaller or larger turkey?

Yes, just adjust the cooking time. Use a meat thermometer to ensure doneness.

Conclusion

Gordon Ramsay’s Roast Turkey is a foolproof way to make a flavorful and juicy centerpiece for your holiday feast. With a simple herb butter, perfectly roasted skin, and rich gravy, this recipe will make your next Thanksgiving or Christmas meal unforgettable!

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