Roast Turkey With Sage Butter

This has been a family request every thanksgiving. i have used the sage butter for turkey breasts. this brings out the flavor of the turkey without hiding it enhancing what is already there. you must baste. else you end up with my sister's desert turkey. Origin was an epicurious recipe.

Steps

Cook bacon in heavy large skillet over medium heat until brown and crisp.

Transfer bacon to paper towels and drain.

Crumble bacon finely.

Mix butter , sage and bacon in medium bowl.

Season lightly with salt and pepper.

Can be made 2 days ahead.

Cover and chill.

If using return to room temperature.

Pat turkey dry.

Season cavity with salt and pepper.

Place leeks , fennel , 8 sage sprigs and bay leaves in cavity.

Loose the skin of the turkey breast and spread 1 / 3 cup sage butter over breast meat.

Put turkey on roasting rack.

Rub 2 tablespoons sage butter over outside of turkey.

Set aside 1 / 3 cup butter for gravy.

Save the rest for basting.

Can be made 1 day ahead if you return it to room temp before continue.

Cover , chill.

Position rack in bottom third of oven and preheat to 350f.

Pour 1 / 3 cup broth over turkey.

Roast turkey until thermometer inserted into thickest part of inner thigh registers 180f.

Transfer turkey to platter.

Tent with foil.

Let stand 30 .

Ingredients

bacon, unsalted butter, fresh sage, turkey, leeks, fennel, sage sprigs, bay leaves, low sodium chicken broth, parsley sprig