The Most Popular Way to Cook a Turkey

Roasting a whole turkey in the oven is hands down the most classic and popular way to cook a turkey. When people imagine a perfect Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner, they picture a gorgeous, golden brown turkey straight out of the oven as the centerpiece Though there are many ways to cook a turkey these days, from deep frying to smoking to grilling, roasting it in the oven allows you to enjoy this iconic holiday bird in all its traditional glory

Why Roast a Turkey?

There are several excellent reasons why roasting a turkey is the most popular preparation method year after year.

Simple and Straightforward

Roasting a turkey is one of the easiest ways to cook it. Unlike deep frying which requires managing a vat of hot oil or smoking which necessitates monitoring temperature for hours, roasting just needs a standard roasting pan in your oven. You don’t need any specialized equipment beyond a roasting pan with a rack and a good instant read thermometer. The process itself is also simple – just season the bird, pop it in the oven, and roast until done. Much less fuss than other cooking methods.

Delicious Flavor

Roasting uses dry heat to gently cook the turkey, resulting in succulent, tender meat infused with incredible flavor. The hot air of the oven crisps up the skin beautifully Brining the turkey prior to roasting helps keep the meat unbelievably moist and well seasoned A roasted turkey is hard to beat when it comes to taste.

Makes an Impressive Centerpiece

A whole roasted turkey presented on a platter is a sight to behold and makes a dramatic impact as the focal point of the holiday table It looks like the Thanksgiving turkey of our dreams compared to carved meat or pieces cooked another way, The whole bird roasted to golden perfection is a showstopper,

Traditional and Nostalgic

For many, roasting a turkey is part of holiday tradition and evokes nostalgia of celebratory meals past. The aroma of roast turkey wafting from the kitchen brings back memories of childhood holidays. Cooking it the classic way honors tradition and makes the occasion feel meaningful.

How to Roast the Perfect Turkey

Roasting a remarkable turkey is easy as long as you follow some simple tips:

Select the Right Size

Pick a turkey that fits your guest list with about 1⁄2 pound per person. For 8 to 10 people, choose a 12 to 15 pound turkey. Too big and you’ll be overloaded with leftovers. Too small and guests won’t get sufficient portions.

Thaw Safely

Keep the turkey frozen until 1-2 days before roasting. Thaw in the refrigerator allowing 24 hours of thawing time per 4-5 pounds. Do not thaw on the counter as bacteria can grow rapidly.

Brine is Key

Soaking the turkey in a saltwater brine infuses flavor and helps keep the meat incredibly moist and tender. Brine for 12-24 hours in the refrigerator. Make sure to rinse and pat dry before roasting.

Use a Thermometer

Investing in a good instant read thermometer ensures you don’t overcook the turkey. Check temperature in the thickest part of the thigh and breast. Cook to 165°F in the thigh and 160°F in the breast.

Roast at Low Temp

Roast at an oven temp of 325°F which cooks the turkey gently without drying it out. Plan for about 13 minutes per pound for an unstuffed turkey and 15 minutes per pound for a stuffed bird.

Let It Rest

Never carve right out of the oven or juices will spill out. Allow to rest at least 30 minutes tented loosely in foil so juices reabsorb into the meat.

Make Amazing Gravy

Homemade gravy from the pan drippings takes your roast turkey to the next level. Simmer drippings with broth and seasonings for rich, silky gravy.

Step-By-Step Guide

Follow these simple steps for a flawlessly roasted turkey:

Prep the Turkey

1. Thaw turkey completely in the refrigerator. This takes 24 hours for every 4-5 pounds.

2. Remove giblets and neck from interior cavities. Reserve for gravy if desired. Rinse turkey under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.

3. Create a saltwater brine by stirring 1 cup salt into 1 gallon cold water until dissolved. Submerge turkey in brine 24 hours.

4. Remove turkey from brine, rinse under water, and pat dry with towels. Allow to air dry uncovered in the refrigerator for 8-12 hours before roasting for crisper skin.

Ready the Roasting Pan

1. Place rack in large roasting pan. Pour 1 cup water into the bottom of the pan to help prevent drippings from burning.

2. Coat rack with vegetable oil spray or brush with oil to prevent turkey from sticking.

Prep the Turkey for Roasting

1. Remove turkey from refrigerator and allow to come to room temperature about 1 hour before roasting.

2. Pat turkey dry with paper towels. Rub skin all over with olive oil or softened butter. Generously season cavity and skin with salt and pepper.

3. Tuck wing tips under body with tips facing towards tail. Tie legs together with kitchen string.

Roast the Bird

1. Place prepared turkey on the rack in the roasting pan, breast side up.

2. Roast in a preheated 325°F oven. Roast unstuffed turkey about 13 minutes per pound, stuffed turkey about 15 minutes per pound.

3. Use an instant read thermometer to check temperature, inserting it deep into the thickest part of thigh and breast. Cook until 165°F in thigh and 160°F in breast.

4. Let roast turkey rest 30 minutes before carving.

Make Gravy and Carve

1. Place roasted turkey on a cutting board or platter. Make gravy from the drippings in the roasting pan.

2. Carve turkey and serve with gravy and your favorite holiday sides. Enjoy this fabulous roast turkey!

Roasting a whole turkey is clearly the most popular and traditional way to prepare this iconic centerpiece for holiday feasts. With proper thawing, brining, roasting, and resting, you are guaranteed incredible results. Give this straightforward method a try and enjoy a classically cooked, deliciously moist and tender roast turkey your family will rave about for years to come.