Are you ready to make the BEST Thanksgiving turkey recipe? Trust me, it’s easier than you think!
You don’t need to brine and you don’t need to baste. Your family and guests will be impressed by your perfectly golden, juicy, and incredibly flavorful roasted turkey recipe, which only requires a few easy steps to prepare.
There’s something about cooking a turkey for Thanksgiving that intimidates a lot of people. I totally get it. I remember being intimidated the first time I cooked a turkey. I take it that you don’t want to ruin a large holiday dinner that you host for all of your friends and family?
The ironic thing is that preparing a turkey is really quite simple—just picture it as a big, juicy chicken. It might take longer to cook, but other than that, the process is pretty darn similar.
To make a traditional, incredibly flavorful, and juicy turkey, you don’t need any of the fancy tools, gadgets, smokers, or flavors that some people like to use. Just follow my Thanksgiving game plan so you know what to buy and cook when. Then follow the recipe and tips below. Easy!.
Besides the turkey, you just need herbs, aromatics, and a little seasoning. Simple really is best!
I also put vegetables under my turkey (like celery, carrots, and onion) while it’s roasting. This isn’t required, but I do recommend it. It will not only enhance the flavor of your turkey dish but also elevate the flavor of your turkey gravy!
The holidays are a time for family, friends, and of course, delicious food. And what better centerpiece for your holiday table than a big, juicy turkey? But with so many different sizes available, how do you know which one is right for you?
Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
This guide will help you choose the perfect size turkey for your gathering, whether you’re feeding a small group or a large crowd. We’ll also provide some tips on how to cook your turkey to perfection.
How Many People Will You Be Feeding?
The first step in choosing the right size turkey is to determine how many people you will be feeding. A good rule of thumb is to allow 1 pound of cooked turkey per person. So, if you’re expecting 10 guests, you’ll need a 10-pound turkey.
However, there are a few things to keep in mind when using this rule of thumb:
- Appetites: Some people eat more than others. If you know you have some big eaters in your group, you may want to allow for 1.5 pounds of turkey per person.
- Leftovers: Do you want leftovers? If so, you’ll need to allow for an extra pound or two of turkey.
- Cooking method: The cooking method you use will also affect the amount of turkey you need. For example, if you’re roasting a turkey, you’ll need to allow for more shrinkage than if you’re frying it.
Turkey Size Chart
Here is a chart to help you choose the right size turkey for your gathering:
| Number of People | Turkey Size | Cooked Weight |
|---|---|---|
| 2-3 | 4-6 lbs | 2-3 lbs |
| 4-6 | 8-12 lbs | 4-6 lbs |
| 7-9 | 14-18 lbs | 7-9 lbs |
| 10-12 | 18-22 lbs | 10-12 lbs |
| 13-15 | 22-24 lbs | 13-15 lbs |
| 16+ | 24+ lbs | 16+ lbs |
Tips for Cooking a Big Turkey
Once you’ve chosen the right size turkey it’s time to cook it! Here are a few tips to help you cook your turkey to perfection:
- Thaw your turkey completely before cooking. This will help it cook evenly.
- Season your turkey generously with salt and pepper. You can also add other herbs and spices to your liking.
- Cook your turkey at a low temperature. This will help it stay moist and prevent it from drying out.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey. The turkey is done when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Let the turkey rest for at least 15 minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and make the turkey more tender.
Choosing the right size turkey for your holiday feast is easy with our handy guide. Just follow these simple tips and you’ll be sure to have a delicious and memorable meal.
Happy holidays!
How Long to Cook a Turkey
Ready for good news? Because we didn’t stuff the turkey, it will cook about 30 minutes faster. On average, plan for about 15 minutes per pound of turkey. But remember the BEST gauge is the temperature. Preheat the oven to 158° to 160°F (check the temperature at the thickest area of the thigh or breast). But here’s a guideline:
- For a turkey weighing 10 to 14 pounds, allow 2 to 3 hours.
- For a 14–18 pound turkey, allow 3 and a half to 4 hours.
- For a turkey weighing 18 to 22 pounds, allow 4 to 5 hours.
Keep an eye on your turkey when it’s about 75% done. Then, check the temperature every 10 minutes. Remember that ovens can cook slightly hotter or cooler. If you notice the skin browning too quickly, you can always place aluminum foil on top.
Always Let Your Turkey Rest
It’s crucial to give the turkey at least 30 minutes to rest after taking it out of the oven. This allows the juices to redistribute in the meat, making for a juicer turkey. Better to have a juicy turkey than a sopping wet cutting board!.
Turkey Farm Prepares For Thanksgiving
FAQ
What’s a big turkey?
Is a 14 lb turkey big?
What is the largest size turkey you can buy?
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