Cooking a turkey can be a daunting task, especially when you’re aiming to prepare a large one for a family gathering or holiday feast. If you have a 20-pound turkey and are wondering how long it takes to cook it at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, you’re in the right place. This guide will provide you with detailed instructions and tips to ensure your turkey comes out deliciously moist and perfectly cooked.
Contents
Preparing Your Turkey
Before you even think about putting your turkey in the oven, proper preparation is key. Start by making sure your turkey is completely thawed. A frozen turkey can take several days to thaw in the refrigerator, so plan accordingly. For a 20-pound turkey, you should allow approximately four to five days of thawing time in the fridge.
Once thawed, remove the giblets and neck from the cavity of the turkey. Rinse the turkey inside and out under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy skin everyone loves.
Seasoning Your Turkey
Seasoning is where you can get creative. While a simple salt and pepper rub can suffice, consider adding herbs and spices for extra flavor. A popular method is to rub the turkey with a mixture of softened butter, garlic, rosemary, thyme, and sage. Be sure to get some of the butter mixture under the skin for maximum flavor infusion.
Stuffing: To Stuff or Not to Stuff?
Deciding whether to stuff your turkey is a personal choice. If you choose to stuff it, do so just before cooking to minimize the risk of bacterial growth. Use about 3/4 cup of stuffing per pound of turkey. Be sure not to pack it tightly, as stuffing expands during cooking.
Cooking Time and Temperature
The general rule of thumb for cooking a turkey at 350 degrees Fahrenheit is about 13 minutes per pound if it’s unstuffed, and 15 minutes per pound if stuffed. For a 20-pound turkey, this equates to approximately 4 hours and 20 minutes if unstuffed, and up to 5 hours if stuffed.
Place the turkey breast-side up on a rack in a roasting pan. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh without touching bone. This will help you monitor when your turkey reaches the safe internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Basting and Covering
Basting your turkey every 30-45 minutes with its own juices or a seasoned broth can help keep it moist. However, frequent basting will increase cooking time as it cools the oven each time you open it.
To prevent over-browning, cover your turkey loosely with aluminum foil halfway through cooking. This allows the skin to crisp up initially while protecting it from burning later on.
Resting Your Turkey
Once your thermometer reads 165 degrees Fahrenheit in both the thigh and stuffing (if applicable), remove the turkey from the oven. Let it rest for at least 20-30 minutes before carving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicier turkey.
Common Questions
- Can I cook my turkey at a higher temperature?
Yes, but cooking at higher temperatures can result in uneven cooking and a dry bird. Sticking with 350 degrees ensures even cooking. - What if my turkey is browning too quickly?
If your turkey is browning too fast, cover it with aluminum foil and lower the oven temperature slightly. - How do I know when my turkey is done?
The best way to ensure doneness is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
By following these steps, you can confidently cook a delicious and perfectly roasted 20-pound turkey at 350 degrees Fahrenheit that will be the star of your meal!