The Ultimate Turkey

1 (16-pound) whole turkey
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
6 cups stuffing mix
1 celery rib, chopped
1 carrot, chopped
1 onion, chopped
1/4 cup butter, melted

Wash turkey; pat dry. Season with salt and pepper. Run fingers carefully between the skin and flesh of the turkey, loosening the skin. Working slowly, push stuffing mix in a thin layer under the breast and thigh of turkey. Put chopped celery rib, chopped carrot, and chopped onion in the body cavity. Tie the legs closed. Place the turkey in a large pan, brush with melted butter and roast, breast-side up, at 350*F for 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 155 to160*IF.

Remove from the oven and let stand 20 minutes before carving.

Makes 20 servings.