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Step 1
The first step toward cooking a turkey for Thanksgiving is to determine how big of a turkey you will need to purchase.
As a general rule, plan on one and half pounds per person. If you are planning for more than 14 people, consider purchasing two medium size turkeys (12-15 lbs) instead of one mega bird (20 lbs+). -
Step 2
Safely thaw your frozen turkey in the refrigerator based on the weight of the turkey.
Thawing time can vary significantly, from two to six days. Therefore, planning for your Thanksgiving turkey in advance is a must! When you purchase a turkey the label tell you the weight of the turkey and give you a recommended thawing time. If you are unsure, or the label is not clear, ask the poultry employee at the grocery store for guidance. Remove the turkey neck and giblets from inside the turkey breast after thawing. -
Step 3
Place the turkey in a roasting pan and complete final preparations.
Separate the turkey skin from the turkey, without removing it. Butter the area between the skin and the turkey using about a 1/4 to 1/2 stick of butter. Salt and pepper the outside of the turkey skin, don't be shy! -
Step 4
Preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Once the oven is preheated, insert the turkey in a roasting pan. Cooking time varies between 15-20 minutes per pound.
You know when your turkey is finished when the turkey looks juicy and golden brown and using a cooking thermometer you determine the thigh is at 180 degrees Fahrenheit or the breast is at 170 degrees Fahrenheit. -
Step 5
Let the turkey "rest" for about 20 minutes. Then enjoy!
Comments
ajmaddox said
on 7/20/2009 Have you tried deep fried turkey? Maybe not the best if you are watching your waist line, but WHEW it's yummy! Good article.