The Easiest Way to Cook a Whole Turkey

Cooking a whole turkey might seem intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be! With a few simple steps, you can achieve a juicy, flavorful turkey that’s perfect for any occasion, not just Thanksgiving. Whether you're a first-time turkey roaster or just looking for a stress-free method, this guide will show you the easiest way to cook a whole turkey with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.

1. Choose the Right Turkey

Start by choosing the right turkey for your gathering. Or, you can also roast a whole turkey for meal prep! A general rule of thumb is to buy 1 to 1.5 pounds of turkey per person. Check out our guide, How Much Turkey Do You Need Per Person? for more info on buying the right size turkey. Opt for a fresh or frozen turkey from a reputable source, and if frozen, make sure to thaw it properly in the fridge (allow about 24 hours for every 4-5 pounds of turkey).

2. Thaw the Turkey

If you are buying an Organic Prairie® Whole Turkey, it will arrive frozen. You’ll need to thaw it. The best way to do this is to thaw in the refrigerator. The turkey will need 24 hours thaw time for every 5 pounds of meat. So, plan ahead if you are cooking your turkey for a holiday or gathering.

3. Prepare the Turkey

Once your turkey is thawed, it’s time to prepare it for roasting. Here’s the easiest way to get your bird oven-ready:

• Remove the giblets and neck: These are usually found inside the cavity of the turkey. Set them aside if you plan to use them for gravy or stock, otherwise discard them. Our turkey also has a plastic drumstick holder that needs to be removed as well.
• Pat the turkey dry: Use paper towels to pat the turkey dry inside and out. This helps the skin crisp up during roasting.
• Season generously: Rub the turkey all over with olive oil or softened butter. This helps the skin brown beautifully and adds flavor. Season the turkey generously with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices you like (thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, and paprika are all great options). You can also use a simple poultry seasoning to make it incredibly easy. Don’t forget to season inside the cavity!

4. Truss (Optional)

If you want to ensure that your turkey cooks evenly and looks picture-perfect, you can truss it by tying the legs together with kitchen twine. This step is optional, but it helps the turkey retain its shape during roasting and ensures even cooking.

5. Roasting the Turkey

The key to an easy and stress-free roast turkey is cooking it at the right temperature with minimal handling. Here’s the easiest roasting method:

• Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 325°F. This moderate temperature ensures that the turkey cooks evenly without drying out.
• Place the turkey in a roasting pan: Position the turkey breast-side up on a rack in a large roasting pan. If you don’t have a roasting rack, you can use vegetables like carrots, onions, and celery as a makeshift rack to elevate the turkey slightly off the bottom of the pan. But, using a roasting pan or elevating the turkey will make for a crispy skin.
• Roast uncovered: Cook the turkey uncovered for about 13-15 minutes per pound. For example, a 12-pound turkey will take about 2.5 to 3 hours. If the skin begins to brown too quickly, you can loosely tent the bird with foil.
• Baste sparingly: While it’s tempting to baste the turkey frequently, opening the oven door repeatedly can cause temperature fluctuations and extend the cooking time. Basting once or twice during the roasting process is enough to keep the turkey moist.

6. Check for Doneness

The most important step in cooking a turkey is ensuring that it’s done without overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature in the thickest part of the thigh (without touching the bone). The turkey is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

7. Rest the Turkey

Once your turkey has reached the proper temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 20-30 minutes before carving. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring that your turkey stays juicy and tender.

8. Carve and Serve

After resting, it’s time to carve your turkey. Start by removing the legs and thighs, then slice the breast meat. Serve your turkey with your favorite side dishes and enjoy!

Cooking a whole turkey doesn’t have to be complicated. By following these simple steps, you can roast a juicy, flavorful turkey with ease. With minimal preparation, a steady cooking temperature, and a little patience, you’ll have a perfectly roasted turkey that’s ready to impress your family and friends, whether it’s for a holiday feast or a special gathering.