Fitting A Turkey In A Double Oven: A Complete Guide

As Thanksgiving approaches, many home cooks start pondering the same question: can I fit a turkey in my double oven? Roasting a turkey is often seen as the focal point of the Thanksgiving meal. Getting a beautifully browned, juicy bird to the table can feel like a rite of passage for hosts. But cooking turkey in a double oven does require some special considerations compared to using a regular single oven.

In this complete guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to roast turkey success in a double oven You’ll learn how to pick the right sized bird, thaw frozen turkeys safely, prep and season the turkey, calculate cooking times, use both ovens efficiently, and more. Let’s get started!

Do Double Ovens Fit Whole Turkeys?

The good news is that the majority of double ovens can accommodate a typical whole turkey for Thanksgiving Here are some key facts

• Most standard turkeys range from 10 to 24 pounds.

• Double ovens usually offer around 5 cubic feet of total cooking capacity.

• Each oven provides approximately 25 cubic feet of space

• A 15 to 20 pound turkey needs about 2.5 to 3 cubic feet of capacity.

So as you can see, an average size turkey will fit into one oven of a standard double oven range or wall unit. Very large birds over 25 pounds may be a tight squeeze, while smaller turkeys are no problem. Just be sure to verify your actual oven dimensions.

Picking The Right Turkey Size

When selecting your holiday turkey, choose a size that fits comfortably within your double oven’s capacity and the number of guests you’re serving. Here are some tips:

• Allow 1 pound of turkey per person for ample portions.

• Add a couple extra pounds for leftovers – turkey sandwiches are the best!

• Compare oven capacity to the turkey sizes listed above.

• For big gatherings, cook two smaller birds instead of one huge one.

Getting a turkey that’s too big for your ovens will lead to uneven cooking and frustration. So take the time to match the size of the bird to your double oven’s capabilities.

Thawing Frozen Turkeys

Many frozen turkeys require thawing before roasting. Use one of these safe methods:

• Refrigerator: Allow 24 hours per 4-5 pounds. Place in a pan to catch drips.

• Cold water: Change water every 30 minutes. Allow 30 minutes thaw time per 1 lb.

• Microwave: Follow manufacturer’s instructions. Cook immediately after thawing.

Never thaw turkey at room temperature or cook frozen, which can cause bacteria growth.

Seasoning and Preparing The Turkey

For added flavor, rub the turkey cavity and under the skin with a compound butter of:

• 1 softened stick of butter
• 1 tsp each of thyme, sage, rosemary, salt and pepper

Truss the legs together with string to maintain the bird’s shape. Place breast side up on a roasting rack in a pan.

Cooking Time and Temperature

Follow this roasting time guide for double ovens:

• 10-18 lbs: Cook at 325°F for 3 to 3.5 hours
• 18-22 lbs: Cook at 325°F for 3.5 to 4.5 hours
• 22-24 lbs: Cook at 325°F for 4 to 4.5 hours

Rely on a meat thermometer for doneness, not oven time. Cook until it reaches 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh. Let rest 20 minutes before carving.

Tips For Maximum Juiciness

To prevent turkey drying out, use these handy tips:

• Place turkey on a rack in a pan with 1 cup of water added for steam.

• Loosely tent foil over the turkey to seal in juices.

• Baste with turkey broth every 30 minutes while roasting.

• Avoid opening the oven door often to maintain heat.

• Cook stuffing separately to prevent bacterial contamination.

Getting The Most From Your Double Oven

A double oven range makes easy work of cooking a whole Thanksgiving meal. Follow these strategies:

• Roast the turkey in one oven, side dishes in the other.

• Use different temperature settings for items needing varied heat.

• Cook multiple dishes at once to maximize stovetop space.

• Reheat dishes in one oven while turkey roasts in the other.

Handy Side Dishes For Double Ovens

While the turkey cooks, prepare delicious sides like:

• Creamy mashed potatoes
• Savory stuffing or dressing
• Sweet potato casserole with marshmallows
• Roasted autumn vegetables
• Baked mac and cheese
• Fresh cranberry sauce
• Pumpkin, pecan or apple pie

You can even bake bread or rolls while roasting the turkey. A double oven lets you cook all the trimmings at once for a wonderful holiday meal.

Turkey Food Safety Tips

Prevent bacterial contamination with these food safety guidelines:

• Refrigerate raw turkey right away and cook within 2 days.

• Wash hands and surfaces after raw turkey contact.

• Use separate cutting boards for raw poultry.

• Cook to 165°F internal temperature.

• Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours. Reheat fully before eating.

Double Oven Turkey Roasting Success

With some planning and technique, your double oven can easily fit and cook a Thanksgiving turkey to golden, juicy perfection. Use both ovens to multi-task sides, appetizers and desserts. Follow our tips for bird size, thawing, seasoning, temperature, and safety. Then relax and enjoy Turkey Day with a beautiful double oven-roasted turkey as the star of your feast!