Best Easy Roast Goose Recipe

A traditional roast goose with crispy skin and rich, dark meat is a high protein, festive family holiday classic. This elegant bird brings Old World charm to the Christmas table.

Cook 210 min Difficulty NORMAL 540 kcal
#high protein #keto
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • goose (whole, thawed and cleaned) 8 lbs
  • apples (quartered) 2 pieces
  • onion (quartered) 1 pieces
  • lemon (halved) 1 pieces
  • fresh thyme sprigs 6 pieces
Seasonings/Sauce
  • kosher salt 2 tbsp
  • black pepper 1 tbsp
  • paprika 1 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 7 g 5%
Protein 36 g 27%
Fat 41 g 68%
Serving size 220g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Preheat your oven to 350°F. If the goose has excess fat in the cavity or under the tail, trim it carefully using a sharp knife, but leave a thin layer for flavor.

  2. 2

    Pat the goose dry inside and out with paper towels. Prick just the skin (not the meat) all over with a fine skewer to help render the fat during roasting.

  3. 3

    Season the cavity liberally with 1 tablespoon salt and a half tablespoon pepper. Stuff the goose with apples, onion, lemon halves, and thyme sprigs.

  4. 4

    Rub the outside of the goose with remaining salt, pepper, and paprika. Place the goose breast-side up on a rack in a large roasting pan.

  5. 5

    Roast in the oven for approximately 2.5 to 3 hours (22–25 minutes per pound), periodically pouring off excess fat from the pan. After 90 minutes, baste the goose with accumulated juices for crispier skin.

  6. 6

    Near the end of cooking, increase the temperature to 400°F for the final 20 minutes to help crisp the skin further. Goose is done when a thermometer in the thickest part of the thigh registers 170°F.

  7. 7

    Let the roast goose rest, uncovered, for 20 minutes before carving to ensure juicy, tender slices. Serve with pan drippings if desired.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient that makes this roast goose recipe special?
The primary ingredient is the whole goose itself, which gives this dish its luxurious, rich character. The apples and herbs tucked inside the cavity add aromatic depth and subtle sweetness, but roasting the goose with meticulous heat management is what ensures the classic flavor.
Q. How do you ensure the skin becomes perfectly crispy while keeping the meat juicy?
For crispy skin, it's important to prick the goose skin (without piercing the meat) and start roasting at a moderate temperature to properly render the fat. Basting with goose drippings mid-roast and finishing at a high temperature ensure the skin is deeply browned and crisp, while a resting period ensures juicy, tender meat.
Q. How do I prevent the goose from becoming tough or overcooked?
Accurate timing is key. Roast the bird for about 22–25 minutes per pound, and use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 170°F in the thigh. Letting the goose rest for 20 minutes after roasting ensures the juices redistribute for succulent, not dry, results.
Q. What are the nutrition facts per serving for this recipe?
Each serving (220g) contains about 540 kcal, with 36g protein (27% of calories), 41g fat (68% of calories), and only 7g carbs (5% of calories). This nutrient profile also makes it a high-protein and keto-friendly choice for festive meals.
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