Ultimate Electric Roasted Turkey
Prepare to impress your family and friends this holiday season with the Ultimate Electric Roasted Turkey, a culinary masterpiece that guarantees juicy, flavorful results! This recipe dispels the myth that roaster ovens simply steam meats—by following my expert tips, you'll achieve a beautifully browned skin and moist, tender meat that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings, family reunions, or any festive occasion, this turkey is seasoned to perfection and cooked with precision, ensuring a breathtaking centerpiece for your table. Say goodbye to dry, bland turkey, and hello to rave reviews!
18
Servings
212
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Whole turkey
1 (Thawed, up to 20 lbs)
Olive oil or butter
1/4 cup (Melted if using butter)
Seasoning salt
1 teaspoon (For seasoning the turkey)
Poultry seasoning
1 teaspoon (For seasoning the turkey)
Black pepper
1/2 teaspoon (For seasoning the turkey)
Instructions
1
Begin by removing the insert pan from your electric roaster oven and preheat it to its highest setting, which is typically 450°F; if your model allows, set it to 500°F for optimal searing.
2
Do not wash the turkey! Follow USDA guidelines and avoid washing to prevent salmonella spread. Sprinkle seasoning salt inside the turkey cavity. If desired, you can stuff the turkey with prepared stuffing right before roasting. Remember, for a whole turkey, about 3/4 cup of stuffing per pound is recommended.
3
Generously rub the entire turkey with olive oil or melted butter, making sure to cover all areas. Feel free to enhance the flavor by adding your favorite special seasonings alongside the poultry seasoning, seasoned salt, and black pepper.
4
To monitor your turkey's internal temperature, it is highly advisable to use a wired meat thermometer. This will allow you to check the temperature without lifting the roaster lid, ensuring even cooking. If you prefer pop-up thermometers, consider using two to be more reliable.
5
Place the rack into the insert pan with the handles raised and set the turkey on top. Avoid adding water to the pan. Carefully place the insert pan back into the roaster and cover it.
6
Roast the turkey at the highest temperature for 30 minutes to achieve a golden, crispy skin.
7
After 30 minutes, reduce the roaster's temperature to 325°F. Be sure not to lift the lid during cooking, as this can significantly extend cooking time due to heat loss.
8
Cooking times will vary, so it’s essential to start checking the internal temperature one hour before the expected finish time. The turkey's internal temperature should reach 180°F at the thigh and 165°F in the breast and stuffing. Clear juices should run from the bird when pierced.
9
Once the turkey is cooked to perfection, carefully remove it from the roaster, tent it with aluminum foil, and allow it to rest for about 20 minutes. This resting period helps redistribute the juices, resulting in a moist turkey.
10
Enjoy your delicious turkey, and don't forget to share your results with us. Wishing you a joyful Thanksgiving!
Nutrition Information
14g
Fat
0g
Carbs
16g
Protein
118mg
Sodium
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get crispy skin on a turkey using an electric roaster?
To achieve golden, crispy skin, preheat the roaster to its highest setting (450°F to 500°F) and roast the turkey for the first 30 minutes before lowering the temperature to 325°F.
Should I wash the turkey before cooking it?
No, you should not wash the turkey. Following USDA guidelines, avoiding washing helps prevent the spread of salmonella.
What is the recommended preheat temperature for the electric roaster?
Preheat your electric roaster to its highest setting, typically 450°F, or 500°F if your specific model allows for it.
How much stuffing should I use for a whole turkey?
It is recommended to use approximately 3/4 cup of stuffing per pound of turkey.
What should I rub on the turkey skin for the best flavor?
Generously rub the entire turkey with either olive oil or melted butter, and season with poultry seasoning, seasoned salt, and black pepper.
How do I monitor the turkey's internal temperature without losing heat?
It is highly advisable to use a wired meat thermometer, which allows you to monitor the temperature without lifting the lid and letting heat escape.
Should I add water to the insert pan of the roaster?
No, you should avoid adding water to the pan to ensure the turkey roasts properly rather than steaming.
What is the target internal temperature for the turkey thigh?
The internal temperature should reach 180°F at the thigh when the turkey is fully cooked.
What is the target internal temperature for the turkey breast and stuffing?
Both the breast and the stuffing should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Why is it important to let the turkey rest after roasting?
Resting the turkey for about 20 minutes under aluminum foil allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in much moister meat.
Can I lift the lid to check on the turkey while it is cooking?
No, you should avoid lifting the lid during the cooking process as it can significantly extend the cooking time due to heat loss.
What size turkey does this recipe recommend?
This recipe is designed for a thawed whole turkey weighing up to 20 lbs.
How many people does this roasted turkey serve?
This recipe provides approximately 18 servings.
What are the primary seasonings used in this recipe?
The recipe uses seasoning salt, poultry seasoning, and black pepper.
When should I start checking the internal temperature of the bird?
You should begin checking the internal temperature one hour before the expected finish time.
Are pop-up thermometers reliable for electric roasting?
They can be used, but it is recommended to use two of them for better reliability, though a wired thermometer is preferred.
How much fat is in one serving of this turkey?
There are 14 grams of fat per serving.
How many calories are in a serving of the Ultimate Electric Roasted Turkey?
Each serving contains approximately 212 calories.
How do I know the turkey is done if I don't have a thermometer?
While a thermometer is best, clear juices should run from the bird when it is pierced once it is cooked.
What temperature should the roaster be set to after the initial searing?
After the first 30 minutes at high heat, reduce the temperature to 325°F.
Is this recipe suitable for Thanksgiving?
Yes, it is specifically described as a perfect centerpiece for Thanksgiving gatherings and holiday reunions.
Can I use butter instead of olive oil?
Yes, you can use 1/4 cup of melted butter as an alternative to olive oil for rubbing the turkey.
What is the protein content per serving?
There are 16 grams of protein per serving.
How much sodium is in this turkey recipe?
The recipe contains approximately 118mg of sodium per serving.
Do I need to put the turkey directly on the pan bottom?
No, place the rack into the insert pan and set the turkey on top of the rack.
How do I season the turkey cavity?
Sprinkle seasoning salt inside the turkey cavity before roasting or stuffing.
What is the carbohydrate count for this turkey?
This turkey recipe contains 0g of carbohydrates.
When should the turkey be stuffed?
If you choose to stuff the turkey, it should be done right before you begin roasting.
What happens if I wash my turkey?
Washing the turkey can splash bacteria onto your kitchen surfaces, increasing the risk of salmonella contamination.
How long should I preheat the roaster?
The instructions suggest removing the insert pan and preheating the roaster to its highest setting before placing the turkey inside.