This Dry Brine Roast Turkey Recipe is a show stopping addition to your Thanksgiving table! It's golden brown and juicy with the flavors of orange and rosemary, and it's dry brined so there's no messy wet brine to deal with!
1tablespoonchopped fresh rosemaryplus two large sprigs, divided
2tablespoonsfresh orange juice
1tablespoonorange zest
2teaspoonssmoked paprika
1/2teaspoonfreshly ground black pepper
1smallonionpeeled and quartered
1smallnavel orange or two clementines, quartered
4clovesgarlicsmashed and peeled
Instructions
1-3 days prior to cooking, remove the giblet pouch from the turkey and pat it dry with paper towels. Place it on a rimmed baking sheet and sprinkle it evenly with the kosher salt on the outside, inside the cavity, and under the skin over the breast meat. Refrigerate uncovered for up to 3 days.
When you're ready to cook the turkey, remove it from the refrigerator and let stand at room temperature for 1-2 hours.
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Place the olive oil, chopped rosemary, orange juice, zest, smoked paprika, and black pepper in a small bowl and whisk until combined. Coat the outside of the turkey with the olive oil mixture evenly.
Place the onion, orange, garlic cloves, and remaining 2 sprigs of rosemary inside the cavity of the turkey. Truss the turkey legs using the kitchen twine, and tuck the wing tips underneath the turkey.
Place the turkey in the oven and cook for 2 1/2 - 3 hours, depending on the size, or until a thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast registers 160 degrees.
Let the turkey stand for 20 minutes covered loosely with foil, then place on a cutting board. Carve and enjoy!
Notes
Pro tip: Turkey cook time will vary, but a 12-15 lb. turkey generally takes around to 3 hours to cook. All ovens vary, so I suggest checking for doneness after 2 1/2 hours of cooking time.
Total time includes 1 day to dry brine the turkey, but the turkey may be dry brine for a total of 3 days before you plan to cook it.
The skin will look dried out after dry brining which is normal -- that's what makes the skin so crispy.
If using a frozen turkey, make sure to thaw completely and pat dry before dry brining.
Leftover roast turkey will keep for 3-5 days in the refrigerator.