Make a gigantic bird if you’re hosting a large gathering and want to serve a lot of turkey. Alternatively, you could bake two smaller birds at the same time.
King Phojanakong, a chef at the Institute of Culinary Education, tells LIVESTRONG that “two birds might be a better choice for a juicier, tender product that you can fit in your oven.” com. According to Phojanakong, tough meat is more likely to be found in larger, older turkeys.
Two smaller birds might also be easier for you to handle; just consider how much simpler it is to lift up a roasting pan filled with a 12-pound turkey as opposed to a roasting pan full of a 24-pound bird that is smoldering. When two birds are competing, you can also utilize various seasonings. Additionally, you’ll cook the turkey faster because two small turkeys cook more quickly than one large one.
However, you will need to plan ahead if you plan to cook two turkeys at once. Here’s what you need to know and the precise procedures for baking two turkeys at once.
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Hosting a large gathering for Thanksgiving? Cooking two turkeys at once can be a time-saving and efficient solution to feed a crowd. However, it’s important to consider a few key factors to ensure both turkeys cook evenly and safely.
Choosing the Right Turkeys:
- Size: Opt for two smaller turkeys, ideally between 9 and 12 pounds each. This allows for better heat circulation and even cooking.
- Roasting Pan: Select a shallow roasting pan (no more than 3 inches deep) with a rack to elevate the turkeys above the pan drippings. Two compact 13×9 roasting pans should accommodate both birds comfortably. If using a larger pan, place the turkeys side by side with an inch of space between them.
Cooking Time:
- Don’t Double the Time: Even with two turkeys, the cooking time remains the same as for a single bird. For 12-pound turkeys, roast for 2¾ to 3 hours at 325°F. Use a food thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 175°F in the thigh and 165°F in the breast.
Additional Tips:
- Plan Ahead: Measure your turkeys and roasting pans to ensure they fit comfortably in your oven.
- Rotate and Baste: Rotate the turkeys halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. Baste occasionally with pan drippings for added flavor and moisture.
- Resting Time: Allow the turkeys to rest for at least 20 minutes before carving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Alternative Cooking Methods:
- Smoked Turkey: Consider smoking one or both turkeys for a unique flavor and tender texture.
- Grilled Turkey: Grilling can be a quick and flavorful option for smaller turkeys.
- Deep-Fried Turkey: Deep-frying requires special equipment but delivers a juicy and crispy result.
- Electric Roaster: An electric roaster can free up valuable oven space.
- Turkey Breast: Cooking extra turkey breasts instead of a whole bird provides additional white meat.
Cooking two turkeys at once can be a practical solution for large gatherings. By following these tips and choosing the appropriate cooking method, you can ensure both turkeys are cooked to perfection and ready to impress your guests.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I cook two turkeys of different sizes in the same oven?
It’s not recommended to cook turkeys of significantly different sizes in the same oven, as they will likely cook at different rates. However, if the size difference is small (e.g., 10-pound and 12-pound turkeys), you can adjust the cooking time for the smaller bird accordingly.
- Is it safe to cook two turkeys on different racks in the oven?
Yes, it is safe to cook two turkeys on different racks in the oven, as long as there is sufficient space between them for proper heat circulation.
- How do I ensure both turkeys cook evenly?
Rotate the turkeys halfway through cooking and baste them occasionally to promote even browning and moisture. Using a food thermometer is crucial to ensure both turkeys reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F.
- What are some tips for basting two turkeys?
Use a baster or a turkey baster brush to distribute the pan drippings evenly over both turkeys. Baste every 30 minutes or so for optimal results.
- Can I use the same stuffing for both turkeys?
Yes, you can use the same stuffing for both turkeys, as long as it is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
Additional Resources:
- Butterball Turkey Talk-Line: https://www.butterball.com/talk-line/
- USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service: https://www.fsis.usda.gov/food-safety/safe-food-handling-and-preparation/meat/turkey-food-safety
Plan to Clean Your Food Thermometer
The only way to determine when a turkey is cooked through is to use a food thermometer. Poultry may be undercooked on the inside, which can result in a foodborne illness, even if the outside is a delicious golden-brown color.
Cleaning the thermometer probe between uses is required to avoid cross-contamination, per Michigan State University. Use soapy water to clean it, per the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
You can keep two food thermometers on hand, one for each turkey, if you’re feeling extra cautious. That will help you save time when washing if you’re checking the turkeys’ temperatures.
It’s acceptable to check the temperature of a single bird during the cooking process because, given their similar sizes, they will cook at the same rate, according to Phojanakong. Make sure to take the turkeys’ temperatures at the end to see if they’re done.
Plan Ahead Before Cooking Two Turkeys at the Same Time
When cooking two turkeys at once, keep these things in mind.