How To Cook A Whole Turkey

All you need to know about: How To Cook A Whole Turkey.

Step 1: Preparing the Turkey

Before you begin to cook a turkey, you need to make sure it’s properly prepared. Start by removing the giblets and neck from the body cavity and discarding them. Rinse the turkey inside and out with cold water, then pat it dry with paper towels. Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a roasting pan.

Step 2: Seasoning the Turkey

Next, you’ll need to season the turkey. Rub the turkey all over with butter or oil to help keep it from drying out. Sprinkle the turkey with salt and pepper, then add any other seasonings you prefer, such as garlic powder, paprika, thyme, or sage.

Step 3: Roasting the Turkey

Once the turkey is seasoned, you can begin to roast it. Preheat your oven to 325°F. Place the turkey in the oven and roast it for about 15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F when measured in the thickest part of the thigh.

Step 4: Basting the Turkey

In order to keep the turkey moist, you’ll need to baste it periodically throughout the cooking time. Baste the turkey every 30 minutes or so with the pan juices or a mixture of butter and water.

Step 5: Resting the Turkey

Once the turkey is done cooking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 15 minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the turkey, resulting in a juicy and flavorful finished product.

Step 6: Carving the Turkey

When you’re ready to carve the turkey, remove the legs and thighs first. Slice the meat from the bones and set aside. Next, slice the breast meat. Arrange the carved turkey on a platter and enjoy!