Bacon Covered Turkey

We'll be cooking a turkey at my parents' house in a couple of weeks, but I always like to roast a turkey in my own oven at least once during the holiday season. Besides, it's about time to use the 11# pound bird that's been sitting in the freezer waiting for me to make the last turkey recipe on Wayne's "dinner wishes" list. 

Bacon Covered Turkey

• 11 pound turkey, thawed
• one red onion, quartered
• several springs of fresh thyme
• several springs of fresh rosemary
• 1/4 cup butter or margarine, melted
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1 pound bacon, sliced

Put the onion and herbs in the cavity of the turkey. Combine the butter and seasonings and brush over the turkey (under the skin as well). Then layer the bacon on top; weaving the slices is a nice touch.

Roast at 375 degrees for 30 minutes, uncovered. Then cover with foil and bake another hour. Uncover and cook about 30 additional minutes, or until done.

Let sit for a few minutes before carving and serving.

 

One of the great things about fixing this is the mouth-watering aroma while it's in the oven, and then the absolute best part is "picking" at it while carving. The bacon makes that task super delectable!