How Long to Cook Turkey in a Convection Oven? Everything You Need to Know
Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and of course, turkey. If you’re looking to cook a perfectly juicy and flavorful turkey this year, a convection oven is your best bet. Convection ovens circulate hot air evenly around the food, which reduces cooking time and results in a more evenly cooked bird.
But how long do you need to cook a turkey in a convection oven? The answer depends on the size of your turkey and the temperature you’re cooking it at. Here’s a general guide to help you out:
Convection Oven Turkey Cooking Time and Temperature
| Turkey Weight | Cooking Temperature | Cooking Time |
|---|---|---|
| 8-12 pounds | 325°F | 2.5-3.5 hours |
| 12-16 pounds | 325°F | 3.5-4.5 hours |
| 16-20 pounds | 325°F | 4.5-5.5 hours |
| 20-24 pounds | 325°F | 5.5-6.5 hours |
Tips for Perfectly Cooking a Turkey in a Convection Oven
Here are a few tips to help you cook the perfect turkey in a convection oven:
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
- Brine the turkey overnight in a saltwater solution to help keep it moist. Drain the turkey of the brine and allow it to air dry before roasting.
- Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a roasting pan. This will help the air circulate around the turkey and promote even cooking.
- Cook the turkey in a convection oven at the recommended temperature and time. The cooking time will vary depending on the size of the turkey.
- Let the turkey rest for 30 minutes before carving. This will help the juices redistribute throughout the turkey and result in a more tender and juicy bird.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cooking Turkey
- Q: What is the best way to thaw a turkey?
- A: The best way to thaw a turkey is to place it in the refrigerator for 24 hours per 5 pounds of turkey. You can also thaw the turkey in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes.
- Q: What is the best way to brine a turkey?
- A: To brine a turkey, dissolve 1 cup of salt in 1 gallon of water. Place the turkey in the brine and refrigerate for 12-24 hours. Draining the brine from the turkey and allow the turkey to air dry before roasting.
- Q: What is the best way to cook a turkey?
- A: The best way to cook a turkey is to roast it in a convection oven. This will help the turkey cook evenly and result in a more flavorful bird.
Conclusion
Cooking a turkey in a convection oven is a great way to get a perfectly cooked bird that is moist and flavorful. By following the tips above, you can ensure that your turkey turns out perfectly every time.
Are you ready to cook the perfect turkey this Thanksgiving? Let us know in the comments below!
