How Long To Cook Turkey In A Convection Oven?
Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and for many of us, that means it's time to start planning our turkey dinner. While there are many ways to cook a turkey, one of the most popular methods is using a convection oven. Not only does a convection oven cook the turkey faster, but it also makes for a juicier and more evenly cooked bird. However, many people are unsure of how long to cook their turkey in a convection oven. In this article, we'll break down the cooking times based on the weight of your turkey and give you some tips for ensuring a delicious and perfectly cooked bird.
Cooking a 12-14 Pound Turkey
If you're cooking a turkey that weighs between 12 and 14 pounds, you should plan on cooking it for approximately 2-2.5 hours in a convection oven set to 350°F. However, it's important to remember that every oven is different, so you'll want to use a meat thermometer to ensure that your turkey has reached an internal temperature of 165°F before removing it from the oven. You should also tent your turkey with foil for the first hour of cooking to prevent the skin from burning.
Tips for a Perfectly Cooked Turkey
If you want to ensure that your turkey is perfectly cooked and delicious, there are a few tips that you should keep in mind. First, be sure to let your turkey come to room temperature before cooking it. This will help it cook more evenly. Second, be sure to season your turkey well, both inside and out. Third, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of your turkey throughout the cooking process. Finally, let your turkey rest for at least 20-30 minutes before carving it. This will allow the juices to redistribute and make for a juicier bird.
Cooking a 16-18 Pound Turkey
If you're cooking a larger turkey that weighs between 16 and 18 pounds, you'll need to adjust your cooking time accordingly. For a turkey of this size, you should plan on cooking it for approximately 2.5-3 hours at 350°F in a convection oven. Again, you'll want to use a meat thermometer to ensure that your turkey has reached an internal temperature of 165°F before removing it from the oven.
Basting Your Turkey
While basting your turkey isn't necessary, it can help to keep it moist and flavorful. If you choose to baste your turkey, be sure to do so every 30-45 minutes throughout the cooking process. You can use a basting brush or a spoon to apply the basting liquid, which can be a combination of butter, broth, and herbs.
Cooking a 20-22 Pound Turkey
If you're cooking a very large turkey that weighs between 20 and 22 pounds, you'll need to plan on a longer cooking time. For a turkey of this size, you should plan on cooking it for approximately 3-3.5 hours at 350°F in a convection oven. As with the smaller turkeys, be sure to use a meat thermometer to ensure that your turkey has reached an internal temperature of 165°F before removing it from the oven.
Using a Roasting Pan
When cooking a large turkey, it's important to use a roasting pan that is large enough to accommodate the bird. You'll also want to use a roasting rack to keep the turkey elevated and allow for air to circulate around it. This will help to ensure that your turkey cooks evenly and stays moist.
In conclusion, cooking a turkey in a convection oven is a great way to ensure that your bird is cooked evenly and comes out juicy and delicious. By following these cooking times and tips, you'll be sure to impress your guests with a perfectly cooked turkey this Thanksgiving.
| Turkey Size | Cooking Time |
| 12-14 lbs | 2-2.5 hours |
| 16-18 lbs | 2.5-3 hours |
| 20-22 lbs | 3-3.5 hours |
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