Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and, of course, a delicious meal. And at the heart of that meal is often the turkey. But let's face it, not all turkeys turn out as well as we'd like. Dry, flavorless turkey can be a real disappointment. That's where our million - dollar turkey recipe comes in.

First things first, choosing the right turkey is crucial. You want to select a fresh turkey if possible. A fresh turkey tends to have a better texture and flavor compared to a frozen one. Look for a turkey that has plump breast and thighs. The skin should be smooth and free of any blemishes. If you're buying a frozen turkey, make sure to thaw it properly in the refrigerator. This can take several days depending on the size of the turkey, but it's worth the wait to ensure even cooking.

Once you have your turkey, it's time to prepare it for cooking. Start by removing the giblets and neck from the cavity. You can save these for making gravy later if you'd like. Rinse the turkey inside and out with cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Drying the turkey is important as it helps the skin crisp up during cooking.

Now, let's talk about the seasoning. This is where the magic happens. You'll need a blend of herbs and spices to give your turkey that amazing flavor. A classic combination includes salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme. You can also add a bit of paprika for a touch of color. Rub the seasoning all over the turkey, making sure to get it under the skin as well. This will infuse the meat with flavor as it cooks.

Another secret to a juicy turkey is brining. Brining is the process of soaking the turkey in a saltwater solution. This helps the turkey retain moisture during cooking. To make a basic brine, dissolve about 1 cup of salt in 1 gallon of water. You can also add some herbs, spices, and a bit of sugar to the brine for extra flavor. Place the turkey in a large container and pour the brine over it. Make sure the turkey is completely submerged. Let it brine in the refrigerator for at least 12 hours, or up to 24 hours for a larger turkey.

When it's time to cook the turkey, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Place the turkey in a roasting pan breast - side up. You can add some vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions to the pan for added flavor. Cover the turkey loosely with foil to prevent the skin from burning too quickly. Cook the turkey for about 15 - 20 minutes per pound. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The turkey is done when the thickest part of the thigh reaches 165°F (74°C) and the breast reaches 160°F (71°C).

Once the turkey is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 20 - 30 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it even more tender and juicy. While the turkey is resting, you can start making the gravy using the drippings from the pan and the giblets if you saved them.

Carving the turkey is also an important step. Use a sharp carving knife and start by removing the legs and wings. Then, slice the breast meat against the grain for the most tender slices. Serve the turkey with all your favorite Thanksgiving sides like mashed potatoes, stuffing, and cranberry sauce.

With this million - dollar turkey recipe, you can be sure that your Thanksgiving main dish will be a hit. The combination of proper preparation, seasoning, and cooking techniques will result in a juicy, flavorful turkey that your family and friends will rave about for years to come. So, don't be afraid to try something new this Thanksgiving and give this recipe a go. Your taste buds will thank you!