In order to cook a 21 lb turkey in the oven, you will need to preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Next, you will need to place the turkey in a roasting pan. Be sure to place the turkey breast side up. Then, you will need to insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the turkey thigh. Once the oven is preheated, you will need to cook the turkey for approximately 4 hours. When the turkey is finished cooking, the internal temperature of the turkey thigh should be at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
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6 Steps to Cook A 21 Lb Turkey In The Oven
To cook a 21 lb turkey in the oven, preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the turkey in a roasting pan, breast side up. Rub the turkey with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast the turkey for 3-4 hours, or until the internal temperature of the turkey reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Let the turkey rest for 20-30 minutes before carving.
In today’s busy world, learning how to cook a 21 lb turkey in the oven can save you time and money. With the help of a few simple tips, you can have a delicious turkey dinner on the table in no time. cooking a turkey is not as difficult as it may seem, and with a little practice, you will be able to perfect your turkey-cooking skills.
Step 1: Thaw The Turkey In The Refrigerator For 3 To 5 Days Before Cooking
To thaw a 21 lb turkey in the refrigerator, place the turkey in a roasting pan and cover with plastic wrap. Place the turkey in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days, turning it over once a day. When the turkey is thawed, remove it from the roasting pan and pat dry with paper towels.
Step 2: Position The Oven Rack In The Lowest Third Of The Oven
Before cooking a 21 lb turkey in the oven, be sure to position the oven rack in the lowest third of the oven. This will help to ensure that the turkey cooks evenly and doesn’t get overcooked on the outside while the inside is still raw.
Step 3: Preheat Oven To 325 Degrees F (165 Degrees C)
The cook should preheat their oven to 325 degrees f (165 degrees c) before cooking the 21 lb turkey. This will help ensure that the turkey cooks evenly throughout.
Step 4: Rub The Skin Of The Turkey With Butter Or Margarine
After you’ve prepped the turkey by removing the giblets and rinsing it inside and out, rub the skin all over with butter or margarine. This helps to create a barrier between the skin and the meat so that the skin doesn’t dry out and contract during cooking, leading to dry, overcooked meat.
Step 5: Place The Turkey, Breast Side Up, On A Roasting Rack In A Roasting Pan
After you’ve prepped your turkey by removing the giblets and rinsing it inside and out, it’s time to cook it. Place the turkey, breast side up, on a roasting rack in a roasting pan. By having the turkey breast side up, you’ll ensure that the white meat stays moist during cooking. The roasting rack will allow hot air to circulate around the whole turkey, ensuring even cooking.
Step 6: Insert An Ovengoing Meat Thermometer Into The Thickest Part Of The Inner Thigh, Close To,
An ovengoing meat thermometer should be inserted into the thickest part of the inner thigh, close to the bone. For a 21 lb turkey, cook the bird in a preheated 325 degree F oven for 4-5 hours, or until the internal temperature of the turkey registers 185 degrees F on the meat thermometer.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Do You Bake A 21 Lb Turkey?
A 21 lb turkey should be baked for approximately 4 hours at 325 degrees.
How Long Does A 20Lb Turkey Need To Bake?
A 20lb turkey needs to bake for approximately 4.5 hours.
How Long Does It Take To Cook A 20Lb Turkey At 350 Degrees?
It takes approximately 4 hours to cook a 20lb turkey at 350 degrees.
To Review
Cooking a 21 lb turkey in the oven is a daunting task, but with proper preparation it can be done relatively easily. The most important thing to remember is to allow enough time for the turkey to cook through – typically around 4-5 hours at a temperature of 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Make sure to truss the bird and coat it in butter, salt, and pepper before cooking. Baste the turkey every hour or so to keep it moist. When the turkey is finished cooking, allow it to rest for at least 20 minutes so the juices can redistribute. Carve and serve!