Alternative Ways to Cook Turkey
Always make sure whole turkeys reach a safe minimum internal temperature of 165 °F. Use a meat thermometer to measure the temperature in the innermost part of the thigh and wing and the thickest part of the breast.
Related information:
- For details on roasting turkey, see Turkey Roasting Chart.
- For details on preparing, cooking, and storing turkey, see Turkey.
Method | Size | Estimated Cooking Time | Notes |
---|---|---|---|
Electric Roaster Oven | 8 to 24 lbs. | Generally same times as for oven roasting. | Minimum oven temperature 325 °F. Check appliance manual. |
Grilling: Covered Charcoal Grill or Covered Gas Grill | 8 to 16 lbs. | 15 to 18 minutes per pound. DO NOT STUFF. | Air in the grill must maintain 225 to 300 °F; use drip pan. |
Smoking | 8 to 12 lbs. | 20 to 30 minutes per pound. DO NOT STUFF. | Air in the smoker must maintain 225 to 300 °F; use drip pan with liquid. |
Deep Fat Frying | 8 to 12 lbs. | 3 to 5 minutes per pound. DO NOT STUFF. | Oil must maintain 350 °F. |
Microwaving | 8 to 14 lbs. | 9 to 10 minutes per pound on medium (50%) power. DO NOT STUFF. | Use oven cooking bag. Rotate during cooking. |