Frozen whole turkey turns roasting into a surprisingly cozy win, letting you skip the long thaw and head straight for big flavor. Brushed with orange juice, apple cider vinegar, garlic, rosemary, and thyme, it roasts into a golden bird with crisp skin and juicy meat scented with citrus and herbs. As you carve, warm steam fills the kitchen and signals something special. Simple, stress free, and deeply satisfying, this method transforms a frozen turkey into a showstopping centerpiece everyone will love.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This frozen whole turkey
- Perfect for last-minute meals—no thawing required!
- Juicy and flavorful, thanks to the slow roasting process.
- Easy to prepare, making holiday cooking a breeze.
- Great for feeding a crowd without the hassle.
- Versatile—pair it with your favorite sides for a complete feast!
frozen whole turkey
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This is the perfect temperature for roasting your turkey to juicy perfection!
- Remove the packaging from the frozen whole turkey. Place it breast-side up on a rack in a roasting pan. Make sure it’s stable and ready for roasting!
- In a small bowl, mix softened butter, olive oil, salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary. This fragrant mixture will add amazing flavor to your turkey!
- Rub the herb butter mixture all over the turkey skin and inside the cavity. Get in there and make it delicious!
- Fill the cavity with onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. These veggies will infuse the turkey with flavor as it cooks!
- Pour chicken broth into the bottom of the roasting pan. This will keep the turkey moist and create a lovely gravy!
- Cover the turkey loosely with aluminum foil. This helps to keep it from browning too quickly.
- Roast for about 4 to 4½ hours (13–15 minutes per pound). Remove the foil in the last hour to let the skin brown beautifully!
- Check doneness with a meat thermometer. The thigh should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe eating!
- Let the turkey rest for 20–30 minutes before carving and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute for a moist turkey!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare a delicious frozen whole turkey!
- frozen whole turkey – 10–12 lbs
- kosher salt – 2 tablespoons
- black pepper – 1 tablespoon
- unsalted butter – 4 tablespoons (softened)
- olive oil – 2 tablespoons
- dried thyme – 1 teaspoon
- dried rosemary – 1 teaspoon
- onion – 1 (quartered)
- carrots – 2 (chopped)
- celery – 2 stalks (chopped)
- garlic – 4 cloves (crushed)
- chicken broth – 1 cup
How to Make frozen whole turkey
Cooking a frozen whole turkey is easier than you think! With a little patience and love, you can create a delicious centerpiece for your meal. The preparation time is minimal, while the cooking time is about 4 to 4½ hours. Don’t forget to let it rest for 20–30 minutes before carving!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This is the perfect temperature for roasting your turkey to juicy perfection!
Step 2: Prepare the Turkey
Remove the packaging from the frozen whole turkey. Place it breast-side up on a rack in a roasting pan. Make sure it’s stable and ready for roasting!
Step 3: Make the Herb Butter
In a small bowl, mix softened butter, olive oil, salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary. This fragrant mixture will add amazing flavor to your turkey!
Step 4: Rub the Turkey
Rub the herb butter mixture all over the turkey skin and inside the cavity. Get in there and make it delicious!
Step 5: Stuff the Cavity
Fill the cavity with onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. These veggies will infuse the turkey with flavor as it cooks!
Step 6: Add Broth
Pour chicken broth into the bottom of the roasting pan. This will keep the turkey moist and create a lovely gravy!
Step 7: Cover the Turkey
Cover the turkey loosely with aluminum foil. This helps to keep it from browning too quickly.
Step 8: Roast the Turkey
Roast for about 4 to 4½ hours (13–15 minutes per pound). Remove the foil in the last hour to let the skin brown beautifully!
Step 9: Check Doneness
Check doneness with a meat thermometer. The thigh should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe eating!
Step 10: Let it Rest
Let the turkey rest for 20–30 minutes before carving and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute for a moist turkey!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Main Course |
| Cuisine | American |
| Prep Time | 30 minutes |
| Cook Time | 270 minutes |
| Extra Time | 30 minutes (resting) |
| Total Time | 330 minutes |
| Dietary | Not specified |
| Serves | 10 |
| Best Served | With gravy and your favorite sides! |
Pro Tips for Making frozen whole turkey
- Always check the turkey’s internal temperature; it should reach 165°F for safety.
- Season the turkey generously, even under the skin, for maximum flavor.
- Use a roasting pan with a rack to allow even cooking and crisp skin.
- Let the turkey rest for at least 30 minutes after cooking for juicier meat.
- Save the drippings for a delicious homemade gravy!
How to Serve this frozen whole turkey
- Serve with creamy mashed potatoes and rich turkey gravy.
- Pair with roasted seasonal vegetables for a colorful plate.
- Offer a side of cranberry sauce for a sweet-tart contrast.
- Include a fresh green salad with a zesty lemon vinaigrette.
- Complement with stuffing made from whole grain bread and herbs.
- Finish with a warm dinner roll or cornbread for a cozy touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Here’s how to properly store and enjoy your frozen whole turkey leftovers:
Storing Leftovers
- Cool leftovers to room temperature before storing.
- Place in airtight containers or wrap tightly in foil.
- Label with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing
- Wrap turkey portions in plastic wrap, then foil.
- Use freezer-safe bags for extra protection.
- Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label with the date; best used within 3-6 months.
Reheating
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheat in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until warmed through.
- Use broth or water to keep it moist while reheating.
- Check internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.
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FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. Can you cook a whole turkey from frozen?
Yes, you can cook a whole turkey from frozen! In fact, it’s a safe and effective method. Just make sure to adjust your cooking time accordingly, as it will take longer than cooking a thawed turkey. The USDA recommends cooking it at 325°F and allowing approximately 50% more time than you would for a thawed turkey. This method ensures that the turkey is cooked evenly and safely throughout.
2. How much is a turkey at Costco?
The price of a turkey at Costco can vary depending on the season and the type of turkey you choose. Generally, you can expect to pay around $1.49 to $2.49 per pound for a frozen whole turkey during the holiday season. It’s always a good idea to check your local Costco for the most accurate pricing, as it can fluctuate based on availability and demand.
3. How long will a whole turkey last frozen?
A whole turkey can last in the freezer for up to one year if stored properly. To maintain the best quality, make sure it’s tightly wrapped in freezer-safe packaging to prevent freezer burn. While it may still be safe to eat beyond this time, the quality and flavor may diminish, so it’s best to use it within that timeframe for optimal taste.
4. How much should a 15 lb turkey cost?
The cost of a 15 lb turkey can vary widely based on the store, brand, and whether it’s fresh or frozen. On average, you might expect to pay between $20 to $40 for a 15 lb frozen turkey, especially during the holiday season. Keep an eye out for sales and promotions, as many grocery stores offer discounts during Thanksgiving and Christmas, making it a great time to purchase your turkey!
Final Thoughts
Cooking a frozen whole turkey is not just easy; it’s a delightful adventure! Picture the aroma filling your home as you gather around the table with loved ones, sharing stories and laughter. This simple recipe will leave you feeling accomplished and your guests raving about the meal. So, roll up your sleeves, enjoy the process, and savor every delicious bite!