What’s more delicious than a flavorful, well-seasoned, juicy turkey that’s the centerpiece of your Thanksgiving meal? As much as we love the best meal of the year, it can be stressful. But getting that perfect turkey doesn’t have to be out of reach.
While you’re planning the perfect menu, you might be searching “How to cook turkey tips.” Look no further. This quick guide will help you roast the best turkey you’ve ever eaten.
Having a delicious bird will take some extra attention, but nothing too tricky. Learn how to properly season and roast. Use these tips to give your turkey an extra boost of flavor.
Table of Contents
1. Get Under the Skin
Don’t just sprinkle your turkey with seasoning. For the best taste, you need to get under the skin. Take it one step further than salt, pepper, and a few herbs. Use the classics like thyme and rosemary, but also give sage, garlic powder, and parsley a try.
Use flavored butter under the skin for even more flavor. It will crisp up the skin and keep moisture in the meat. And don’t forget to get inside all the tiny little nooks on the inside of the turkey to get the most flavor possible.
2. Use a Brine
A basic brine can offer extra flavor and tender meat. Use a mix of saltwater, herbs, and spices and soak your bird for at least four hours before you start cooking. Brining overnight is a good place to start, so plan ahead.
3. Herbs Are the Key
Instead of stuffing your bird with stuffing, try filling it aromatic herbs. Onion, garlic, thyme, rosemary, and sage are the traditional Thanksgiving flavor. But citrus like lemons and oranges can add acidity and brightness to the turkey.
4. Marinade and Glaze
If you’re a fan of the grill, try marinating your turkey. End your search for how to cook marinaded turkey tips. Here’s how you do it.
Marinade your turkey with broth, spices, and lemon juice. Allow it to sit for a few hours to ensure it soaks up every bit of flavor.
Glazing your turkey will make the skin seem like part of the flavor and not an afterthought. Layer on an aromatic glaze before roasting your turkey in the oven.
5. How to Roast a Turkey
Start by putting the oven rack at the lowest position and preheat the oven to 325°F. With the turkey breast side up, place it in a shallow roasting pan. Brush with oil to enhance browning.
Use an oven-safe thermometer and insert it into the center of an inside thigh muscle. Be sure the thermometer doesn’t touch bone. Leave space above the breast when covering the turkey with foil. Cover the drumsticks and neck closely with foil.
Here are some how long to cook turkey tips. Use this guide to know how long to roast your turkey in the oven.
- 8-12 pounds: 2¾-3 hours
- 12-14 pounds: 3-3¾ hours
- 14-18 pounds: 3¾-4¼ hours
- 18-20 pounds: 4¼-4½ hours
- 20-24 pounds: 4½-5 hours
For the last 30-45 minutes, remove the foil. When the thigh meat is at 175°F, the turkey is done. Let your bird rest for 15-20 minutes before carving.
The Best How to Cook Turkey Tips
Now that you have the most delicious turkey, it’s time to impress. Dress your turkey up with fresh herbs, delicious side, and place in the center of a beautiful tablescape. After your guests taste your turkey, they’ll be asking for your recipe.
You’ll no longer have to look up “how to cook turkey tips.” These tips will give you the best turkey you’ve ever eaten.
If you found this article helpful, check out more of our clever tips. We’d love to help you enjoy cooking in your kitchen.
