Roasted turkey is a mouthwatering meal usually served at holiday gatherings, yet turkey is a tasty meal anytime. Keep this roast turkey recipe handy as it is a simple method for preparing a dinner the family will love.
Choose a plump turkey, about fifteen pounds. Remove giblets and the neck from inside the turkey. Clean and dry thoroughly inside and out then liberally rub it with kosher salt. In a small bowl, combine one tablespoon of crumbled rosemary, two teaspoons ground sage, two teaspoons of dried thyme, one teaspoon of salt and one teaspoon of pepper. Rub this mixture in each cavity. Be sure to save a bit of this spice mix.
Take your favorite sage and onion stuffing and loosely pack in into the cavity. Once completed sew the cavity closed or use cotton string and small lacing skewers to close the cavity. Tuck in the turkey wings and be sure any loose skin is tucked in.
To provide extra flavor, wrap bacon around the wings and thighs. Melt some butter and brush the turkey then sprinkle the bird with some garlic powder, paprika, salt and pepper.
Cook the uncovered turkey at 375 degrees, baste frequently with pan juices, turkey or chicken broth. After an hour, baste and using the remaining spice mixture, sprinkle the bird with this seasoning. Form a tent out of aluminum foil and cover the turkey breast loosely. Lower the oven temperature to 325 degrees and cook another hour, basting occasionally.
Remove the foil and continue roasting until a thermometer reading (inserted into the thickest portion of the thigh) reads 165 degrees. When the turkey is golden brown and finished cooking, allow it to sit for 15 minutes before carving. Serve with your favorite turkey gravy, vegetables and enjoy!
