Orange and Sage Roasted Turkey

Ingredients

Whole turkey

1 (12-14 pounds)

Salt

2 tablespoons

Black pepper

1 teaspoon

Paprika

1 teaspoon

Onion powder

1 teaspoon

Garlic powder

1 teaspoon

Unsalted butter

1/2 cup (1 stick), softened

Fresh sage leaves

1/2 cup, loosely packed

Oranges

2, sliced

Chicken or turkey broth

1 cup (for basting)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Rinse the turkey inside and out under cold water, then pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.
3. Carefully place the sliced oranges and fresh sage leaves inside the turkey cavity, ensuring they are distributed for maximum flavor infusion.
4. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Mix until well blended to create a savory herb butter.
5. Using your hands, rub the herb butter mixture all over the turkey, including under the skin, to ensure maximum flavor and moisture retention.
6. Position the turkey on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan, breast side up.
7. Pour the chicken or turkey broth into the bottom of the roasting pan to keep the turkey moist during cooking.
8. Cover the turkey loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning during the initial roasting period.
9. Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for 3 to 3 1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
10. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, carefully remove the foil to allow the skin to crisp up and turn a beautiful golden brown.
11. Once the turkey is cooked, transfer it to a serving platter and let it rest for 20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute for a juicy, flavorful turkey.
12. Serve the orange and sage roasted turkey with your favorite side dishes, such as cranberry sauce, stuffing, or roasted vegetables.