How to Make Easier Roast Turkey and Gravy

This Easier Roast Turkey and Gravy recipe takes the stress out of holiday cooking while delivering juicy, tender turkey with a rich, savory gravy. Perfect for any special occasion or Sunday dinner, it’s a foolproof method that keeps the bird moist and flavorful without complicated steps. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe will help you serve up a delicious centerpiece with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Juicy and Tender – Simple roasting techniques lock in moisture for perfectly cooked turkey.
Flavorful and Savory – Seasoned to perfection with herbs and spices that enhance the natural taste.
Hassle-Free Gravy – Easy pan gravy made from drippings, no extra thickeners needed.
Time-Saving – Minimal prep and fuss-free cooking method.

Ingredients

For the turkey:

• 1 (10–12 lb) whole turkey, thawed if frozen
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 1 medium onion, quartered
• 1 lemon, halved
• 4 garlic cloves, smashed

For the gravy:

• Pan drippings from the turkey
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water

Instructions

Prepare the Turkey
Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove giblets and pat the turkey dry with paper towels. Rub olive oil all over the turkey. Season inside and out with salt, pepper, garlic powder, thyme, and rosemary. Stuff the cavity with onion, lemon, and garlic.

Roast the Turkey
Place the turkey breast side up on a rack in a roasting pan. Roast for about 13–15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. Baste occasionally with pan juices.

Rest the Turkey
Remove the turkey from the oven and tent loosely with foil. Let rest for 20 minutes before carving to allow juices to redistribute.

Make the Gravy
Pour the pan drippings into a saucepan and skim off excess fat. Add chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Whisk in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the gravy thickens, about 3–5 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Serve
Slice the turkey and serve with warm gravy on the side.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 280
Protein: 35g
Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 2g
Sugar: 0g
Fiber: 0g

Tips for Success

• Pat Dry – Dry skin ensures a crispy, golden finish.
• Season Generously – Don’t be shy with herbs and spices for full flavor.
• Use a Meat Thermometer – For perfectly cooked turkey without guesswork.
• Skim the Fat – Remove excess fat from pan drippings for a smoother gravy.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe focuses on straightforward seasoning and roasting techniques that enhance the turkey’s natural flavors while keeping it moist and tender. The simple pan gravy made from drippings ties everything together with rich, homemade goodness, proving you don’t need complicated steps to achieve a classic, crowd-pleasing roast turkey.

Easier Roast Turkey and Gravy is your go-to recipe for a juicy, flavorful holiday bird with minimal fuss. With simple ingredients and an easy method, it lets you focus on enjoying your meal and your guests. Serve it with your favorite sides and savor every bite of this delicious, comforting classic.