Step 1: Prep the Turkey

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). This is the perfect temperature for a nice, even roast.

2. Clean the Turkey: Remove the turkey from its packaging and take out the giblets from the cavity. Rinse it under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Drying the skin is key to achieving crispy skin!

3. Season the Cavity: Generously season the inside of the turkey with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy—this is where a lot of flavors come from!

Step 2: Make the Herb Butter

4. Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix the softened butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. This herby butter is what will make your turkey irresistible.

5. Apply the Butter: Gently lift the skin over the turkey breast (you can use your fingers or a spoon) and spread about half of the herb butter directly onto the meat. Then, rub the remaining butter all over the outside of the turkey, ensuring an even coating.

Step 3: Stuff the Turkey

6. Add Aromatics: Place the quartered onion inside the cavity of the turkey. This adds flavor and moisture during roasting.

Step 4: Roast the Turkey

7. Place in the Oven: Position the turkey breast-side up on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan. This allows air to circulate around the turkey and helps it cook evenly.

8. Baste and Cook: Pour 2 cups of chicken broth into the bottom of the roasting pan. Roast the turkey for about 2.5 hours, basting it every 30 minutes with the pan juices. If the skin gets too dark, tent it with aluminum foil.

9. Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of the thigh—it should read 165°F (75°C).

Step 5: Rest and Serve

10. Let It Rest: Once done, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for at least 20-30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making for a juicier turkey.

11. Carve and Enjoy: After resting, carve your turkey and serve it up with your favorite sides. Don’t forget to drizzle some of those delicious pan juices over the top!