Creating the Best Roast Turkey is an enjoyable journey. Just follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Prepare the Turkey: Remove the turkey giblets and neck from the cavity. Rinse the turkey inside and out under cold water, patting it dry with paper towels.
3. Seasoning: In a bowl, mix the softened butter, olive oil, salt, pepper, rosemary, thyme, and sage until well combined.
4. Butter Under Skin: Gently loosen the skin of the turkey breast using your fingers, then spread the herb butter under the skin and over the outside.
5. Stuffing (Optional): If using stuffing, fill the cavity loosely with your stuffing mixture. Do not pack tightly, as this will prevent even cooking.
6. Fill Cavity: Add rest of the onion and lemon quarters inside the turkey’s cavity.
7. Trussing: Tie the legs together with kitchen twine and tuck the wing tips under the bird to prevent burning.
8. Place in Roasting Pan: Place the turkey breast-side up on a rack in a roasting pan. Use a meat thermometer to ensure proper cooking.
9. Pour Broth: Add the chicken broth to the bottom of the roasting pan.
10. Roast: Cover the turkey loosely with aluminum foil and roast in the preheated oven. Remove the foil after 1.5 hours.
11. Basting (Optional): Baste the turkey with the juices every 30 minutes after removing the foil until the skin is golden brown.
12. Cooking Time: Continue roasting until the meat thermometer reads 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. For a 12-14 pound turkey, this should take about 2 to 4 hours.
13. Resting: Once cooked, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 20-30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, maintaining moisture.
14. Carve: Slice and serve your delicious roast turkey.

These clear steps will ensure your turkey turns out perfect and memorable for your gathering.