Roast Turkey With Cajun-Style Rub

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   1. Pre-heat oven to 425 F.

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   2. Prepare the rub. Combine the paprika, kosher salt, garlic powder, freshly ground black pepper, onion powder, cayenne red pepper, oregano and thyme in a medium-sized mixing bowl. Using a whisk, blend well.

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   3. Rub mixture all over the cold turkey-both on and under the skin, as evenly as possible. Let the rub sit on the turkey for 10 minutes before placing it in the oven. Place the turkey on a rack in a roasting pan in the lower portion of the pre-heated oven, legs toward the back. Roast until the turkey starts to turn golden, about 15 to 20 minutes. Reduce the heat to 325 F, and roast the turkey for about 1 1/2 hours, basting with the pan juices every 20 minutes or so. (The white meat is done when a quick-read thermometer reaches 150 degrees.)

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   4. Remove the turkey from oven and (at table, if desired), remove the large breast filet from each side of the turkey. Let the filets rest a few minutes before carving into slices.

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   5. Meanwhile, return the rest of the bird to the 325-degree oven. Cook until the dark meat reaches 175 degrees, about 20 minutes more. Remove, let rest a few minutes, and serve the dark meat.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.