Using the Instant Pot Duo Crisp, Mealthy CrispLid or Ninja Foodi, cook the most succulent, juicy, and intensely flavorful whole turkey with flawlessly crisp skin in less than two hours.
We’ve cooked turkey using almost every technique available. Weve fried, spatchcocked, dry-brined and wet-brined our turkey. While they were good, they werent irresistible. This Thanksgiving, Wed actually made the decision to forgo the turkey in favor of ham and pot roast. However, a few weeks before Thanksgiving, we received an Instant Pot Duo Crisp, and I couldn’t help but try making turkey in it. My wife said, “This is the best turkey I’ve ever had,” after taking one bite. We need to add turkey back to the Thanksgiving menu. You’ve come to the perfect spot if you’re searching for a turkey that is succulent, juicy, and bursting with flavor.
Finding the perfect turkey for your 6-quart Instant Pot can be tricky, but fear not! This guide will help you choose the right size turkey for your pot and ensure a delicious and stress-free Thanksgiving dinner.
Key Considerations:
- Turkey Size: Aim for a turkey no larger than 6 pounds for a 6-quart Instant Pot.
- Brining: If you plan to brine your turkey, consider a slightly smaller bird, around 5-5.5 pounds. Brining adds moisture and weight to the turkey.
- Turkey Shape: Choose a compact turkey with a smaller breast and shorter legs. This will help it fit comfortably in the pot.
Tips for Choosing the Right Turkey:
- Check the packaging: Look for the turkey’s weight and dimensions on the packaging.
- Ask the butcher: If you’re buying your turkey from a butcher, ask them to recommend a size that will fit in your Instant Pot.
- Use a measuring tape: If you’re unsure, measure the inside of your Instant Pot and compare it to the dimensions of the turkey.
What if My Turkey is Too Big?
- Cut off the wing tips and drumsticks: This will help the turkey fit in the pot. You can always use the wing tips and drumsticks to make turkey stock later.
- Cook the turkey in two batches: If your turkey is still too large, you can cook it in two batches. This will require more time and effort, but it will ensure that your turkey cooks evenly.
Additional Tips:
- Use the trivet that comes with your Instant Pot: This will elevate the turkey and allow the juices to circulate.
- Don’t overfill the pot: Leave some space around the turkey for the steam to circulate.
- Follow the recipe instructions carefully: The cooking time will vary depending on the size of your turkey and whether you are using a natural or quick release.
Recommended Resources:
- Easy Instant Pot Turkey (Whole or Breasts): This recipe from Gourmet Done Skinny provides detailed instructions on how to cook a whole turkey or turkey breasts in your Instant Pot.
- Instant Pot Whole Turkey with Crispy Skin: This recipe from The Foodie Eats includes tips on how to achieve crispy skin on your Instant Pot turkey.
Choosing the right size turkey for your 6-quart Instant Pot is essential for a successful Thanksgiving dinner. By following the tips and resources provided in this guide, you can ensure that your turkey cooks perfectly and impresses your guests.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can I cook a 7-pound turkey in a 6-quart Instant Pot?
A: It is possible, but it may be a tight fit. If you do, you may need to cut off the wing tips and drumsticks.
Q: What if I don’t have a trivet?
A: You can use a steamer basket or a few crumpled pieces of aluminum foil to elevate the turkey.
Q: Can I cook a frozen turkey in my Instant Pot?
A: No, it is not recommended to cook a frozen turkey in your Instant Pot. The turkey needs to be thawed completely before cooking.
Q: How long does it take to cook a turkey in a 6-quart Instant Pot?
A: The cooking time will vary depending on the size of your turkey and whether you are using a natural or quick release. Refer to the recipe instructions for specific times.
Q: Can I use my Instant Pot to make turkey stock?
A: Yes, you can use the leftover turkey bones and carcass to make a delicious turkey stock. Simply add them to your Instant Pot with water and your favorite seasonings, and pressure cook for 30 minutes.
Why This Recipe Works
- You can cook turkey in the Instant Pot without brining it. Without the need for brining, the steam pressure created during cooking and the aromatics in the pot produce a juicy, flavorful, and tender turkey.
- You can broil your turkey directly in the pot with the Duo Crisps air fryer lid. If you own a regular Instant Pot, you can air fry food without dirtying a pan or the delicate process of removing a tender turkey from the pot to transfer to the oven by purchasing the Instant Pot Air Fryer Lid or Mealthy CrispLid. The Ninja Foodi, which is comparable to the Instant Pot Duo Crisp, is an additional choice.
- The turkey takes less than two hours to prepare from start to finish!
How to Make an Instant Pot Whole Turkey
