Bob will do anything to cook a heritage turkey that is rare on Thanksgiving when the gas goes out. Bob will do anything to cook a heritage turkey that is rare on Thanksgiving when the gas goes out. Bob will do anything to cook a heritage turkey that is rare on Thanksgiving when the gas goes out.
As a Bob’s Burgers superfan, I wanted to create the ultimate turkey recipe inspired by the Belcher family for my Thanksgiving feast. By combining elements from various Bob’s Burgers episodes I developed a flavorful juicy turkey that will be the star of your holiday table. Let’s break down how to make a stellar Bob’s Burgers turkey!
Selecting the Right Bird
Choosing the perfect turkey is crucial for cooking the best Bob’s Burgers-style meal. Look for the following when shopping:
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Weight: Plan for 1-1.5 lbs per person. For 8 guests, a 12-15 lb turkey is ideal. Go bigger if you want leftovers!
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Fresh vs. Frozen Fresh turkeys have the most flavor, but frozen works if properly thawed. Ensure frozen ones are still within date.
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Free Range & Organic: Opt for these turkeys when possible for maximum taste and texture like the Belchers would.
Once you’ve picked an excellent turkey, it’s time to start prepping.
Brining is Key
To keep your turkey incredibly moist and packed with flavor, brining is a must. In a large pot, combine:
- 2 gallons water
- 1 1⁄2 cups kosher salt
- 1⁄2 cup brown sugar
- 2 heads garlic
- 5 sprigs thyme
- 5 sprigs sage
Bring to a boil, cool, and submerge turkey 12-24 hours. Rinse thoroughly before cooking.
Seasoning the Turkey
- Place quartered lemon, onion, thyme and sage inside cavity
- Rub softened butter all over exterior
- Whisk together vegetable oil, chicken broth, white wine, bourbon, and spices. Inject half under skin.
- Rub remaining mixture on outside. Tie legs if desired.
Roasting to Perfection
- Preheat oven to 425°F. Place turkey on a rack in a roasting pan.
- Pour 1 cup chicken broth in pan.
- Roast 30 minutes, reduce to 350°F then cook until 165°F internal temperature.
- Baste with pan juices every 30 minutes to prevent drying out.
Once turkey reaches 165°F, let rest 30 minutes before slicing and serving.
Get Creative with Flavors!
Take inspiration from the show and get creative with your turkey’s flavor profile. Here are some ideas:
- Stuff turkey with Jimmy Pesto’s famous pesto
- Baste with Gene’s beloved hot sauce
- Top with a fried egg like Bob’s burgers
- Inject with a mixture of cayenne pepper, hot sauce, Cajun seasoning, and melted butter for an extra kick
- Stuff the turkey with smaller birds for a turducken or turkrakenator
- Deep fry instead of roasting for crispy skin
Don’t be afraid to channel the Belcher spirit and experiment with adventurous ingredients and techniques!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I cook the turkey?
Cook at 350°F until the thigh meat reaches 165°F, about 2 1/2 – 3 hours. Large turkeys take longer.
Can I prepare the turkey 1-2 days in advance?
Yes! Complete brining, seasoning, and trussing then refrigerate. Remove 30 mins before roasting.
What’s the best way to thaw a frozen turkey?
In the refrigerator 1 day for every 4-5 lbs. It can take 4+ days to thaw a large bird.
What size turkey should I buy per person?
Plan for 1-1.5 lbs of turkey meat per guest. A 12-15 lb turkey feeds 8 people.
Is it safe to cook stuffing inside the turkey?
No. Stuffing cooked inside can remain undercooked. Cook it separately in a baking dish.
How do I know when the turkey is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check the inner thigh. It’s done at 165°F.
Can I prep the sides ahead of time?
Yes! Many sides like potatoes, casseroles and baked goods can be prepped 1-2 days ahead.
The Belcher family has inspired many creative turkey recipes over the years. With the right techniques and spirit of experimentation, you can craft a mouthwatering Bob’s Burgers-style turkey this Thanksgiving. Serve it up between two brioche buns for the ultimate Turkey Burger, Bobs!
