The Only Herb-Butter Turkey Recipe You’ll Ever Need (+ Perfect Thanksgiving Wine Pairings)

There’s something beautifully timeless about a golden, herb-butter roasted turkey — the kind that fills your kitchen with cozy aromas and brings everyone to the table. This recipe has been a long-time favorite in our family: simple, delicious, and elegant enough to be requested year after year.

Whether you're hosting a full holiday crowd or planning an intimate Thanksgiving dinner, this classic herb-roasted turkey recipe is foolproof, flavorful, and pairs beautifully with some of our favorite wines.

Ingredients

• 1 whole turkey (14–18 lbs), thawed if frozen

• 1 lemon, halved

• 1 large onion, quartered

• 1 whole garlic bulb, halved crosswise

• Generous amount of softened butter

• Salt & freshly cracked black pepper

• Fresh herbs: thyme, rosemary (sage optional)

• 2–3 cups carrots, celery, onions (for the roasting bed)

• 2 tbsp coarse garlic powder (for the herb butter)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and pat the turkey dry with paper towels.

2. Make the herb butter by combining softened butter, garlic powder, salt, pepper, rosemary, and thyme.

3. Salt and pepper the cavity, loosen the skin, and spread ⅓ of the herb butter underneath. Rub the remaining butter on the outside.

4. Fill the cavity with the lemon halves, onion quarters, and garlic bulb — careful not to overpack.

5. In a roasting pan, scatter the carrots, celery, and onions, then place the turkey on top.

6. Roast the turkey for approximately 3½–4½ hours (for a 14–18 lb bird), or until the thigh meat reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste every 45 minutes.

7. Once done, let the turkey rest for 20–30 minutes before carving.

Bon appétit — and prepare for applause.

Our Favorite Thanksgiving Wine Pairings

When you're making a herb-butter turkey like this, you want wines that offer balance, brightness, and layered complexity. Here are our top picks — all available in our collection:

• Brea 2023 Chardonnay – Central Coast, CA
  Buttery, balanced, and beautifully layered — this Chardonnay complements roasted turkey and herb-forward sides like a dream.

• Idlewild Flora & Fauna “The Bird” 2022 Red Blend
  Rated 94 points by Wine Enthusiast. It’s supple and complex, offering vibrant red fruit, wild herbs, and a whisper of spice. A captivating, food-friendly red.

• Pondview Cabernet Franc Ice Wine
  Sweet, silky, and an absolute conversation starter. Save this one for dessert — it’s perfect for pairing with pumpkin pie or a holiday cheese board.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving or joining as a guest, this herb-butter roasted turkey and these wine pairings are designed to elevate your holiday. From the first savory bite to the last sweet sip, we hope your table is full of warmth, laughter, and great wine.

Explore more of our holiday wine collection at Kascadia Wine Merchants and stock up for your celebrations!