You can roast a turkey in your convection oven approximately 25% faster than in a traditional oven. Here are cooking times to get it perfect every time.
After you’ve perfected the art of roasting a golden brown, crispy-skinned turkey, it may seem counterintuitive to try to fix what isn’t broken. Unless time is an issue, that is. You can roast the same turkey in a fraction of the time if you’re fortunate enough to own a convection oven. You can quickly prepare and dress your Thanksgiving turkey with a few tried-and-true roasting tips.
Achieving Perfectly Roasted Turkey in a Convection Oven
Convection ovens offer a unique advantage for roasting turkeys: faster cooking times, even heat distribution, and incredibly moist results. This guide explores the optimal cooking times for stuffed turkeys in a convection oven, ensuring you achieve a delicious and perfectly cooked centerpiece for your meal.
Cooking Time for Stuffed Turkey in a Convection Oven:
- 12-15 pound turkey: 1.5-2 hours
- 15-20 pound turkey: 2-2.5 hours
- 20-25 pound turkey: 2.5-3 hours
Additional Factors Affecting Cooking Time:
- Oven temperature: Higher temperatures will result in faster cooking times. However, it’s essential to follow the recommended temperature of 300°F for convection ovens to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
- Turkey size: Larger turkeys will naturally require longer cooking times.
- Stuffing density: Dense stuffing may require slightly longer cooking times to ensure it reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F.
- Desired level of browning: For a deeper golden brown color, increase the cooking time by 10-15 minutes.
Tips for Roasting Stuffed Turkey in a Convection Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 300°F.
- Use an open roasting pan to allow for optimal air circulation.
- Place the stuffed turkey breast-side up on the rack in the roasting pan.
- Baste the turkey with melted butter or oil every 30 minutes for added moisture and browning.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey in both the breast and the thickest part of the thigh. The turkey is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Let the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes before carving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Additional Notes:
- It’s crucial to ensure the stuffing reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to prevent foodborne illness.
- Consider using a probe thermometer for more accurate temperature monitoring throughout the cooking process.
- If you are concerned about the stuffing drying out, you can add a small amount of broth or water to the bottom of the roasting pan.
- Be aware that cooking times may vary slightly depending on your specific oven and the recipe you are using.
Roasting a stuffed turkey in a convection oven is a simple yet rewarding process. By following the guidelines and tips provided in this guide, you can achieve a perfectly cooked turkey with moist, flavorful meat and delicious stuffing. Remember to adjust the cooking time based on the size of your turkey, the density of your stuffing, and your desired level of browning. With a little practice, you’ll be able to consistently produce a stunning and delicious turkey that will impress your guests and become a cherished tradition.
Unstuffed Whole Turkey Breast
If you’ve chosen to leave the breast empty, you’ll roast it for a little longer—about 45 minutes—while keeping the same temperature. Make sure your turkey is safe to eat by double checking it with a meat thermometer. You dont need a Thanksgiving disaster on your hands.
- 3 to 5½ pounds – 1½ to 2 hours
- 5½ to 9 pounds – 2 to 2½ hours
Stuffed Whole Turkey Breast
There are other ways to serve the Thanksgiving bird besides roasting a whole one. Even if you’re just roasting a turkey breast, the recommended internal temperature remains 165°F.
- 3 to 5½ pounds – 1¾ to 2½ hours
- 5½ to 9 pounds – 2½ to 3¼ hours
Fast Fact
Even if the turkey is stuffed, its internal temperature should be between 165° and 170°F when an instant-read thermometer is placed between the thigh and side of the breast without touching bone.
Convection Oven Roast Turkey with Stuffing
FAQ
How long does it take to cook a stuffed turkey in a convection oven?
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Turkey Weight
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Cooking Time (unstuffed)
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Cooking Time (stuffed)
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6 – 10 lbs.
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1 ½ – 2 hours
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1 ¾ – 2 ½ hours
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10 – 18 lbs.
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2 – 2 ½ hours
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2 ½ – 3 ¼ hours
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18 – 22 lbs.
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2 ½ – 3 hours
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3 ¼ – 3 ¾ hours
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22 – 24 lbs.
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3 – 3 ½ hours
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3 ¾ – 4 ¼ hours
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Should turkey be 325 or 350 in convection oven?
How long does it take to cook a 15 lb stuffed turkey?
What’s the difference between convection bake and convection roast?