I’m always hesitant to cook a big turkey. I don’t want it to be dry or undercooked. But following the steps, one can easily get an evenly cooked turkey.
So, I researched how long to cook a 16-pound turkey at 375ºF, and found this great recipe! It came out that with proper precision one can get the best turkey.
Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious Thanksgiving dinner and enjoy it with your near and dear ones.
Can I cook a turkey at 375 degrees?
Yes, you can cook a turkey at 375 degrees. The cooking time will vary depending on the size of the turkey, but you should plan on cooking it for about 15 minutes per pound. So, a 16-pound turkey would need to cook for about 4 hours.
Turkey cooking time per pound at 375 degrees
| Turkey Weight | Cooking Time (at 375ºF) |
|---|---|
| 8 to 12 pounds | 2.5 to 3 hours |
| 12 to 16 pounds | 3 to 4 hours |
| 16 to 20 pounds | 4 to 5 hours |
| 20 to 24 pounds | 5 to 6 hours |
What is the best way to cook a turkey?
The best way to cook a turkey is by roasting it in the oven. Roasting allows you to cook the turkey evenly so it doesn’t dry out or get overcooked.
How long to cook a 16-pound turkey at 375’F?
When cooking a 16-pound turkey at 375 degrees Fahrenheit, you should cook it for about 4 hours. This will ensure that the turkey is cooked through and juicy.
How long to cook a 20-pound turkey at 375’F?
When cooking a 20-pound turkey at 375 degrees Fahrenheit, you should cook it for about 5 hours. This will ensure that the turkey is cooked through and juicy.
Cooking a 16-Pound Turkey at 375º F
Ingredients
- 1 Turkey (16-pound)
- 1/2 cup Unsalted butter, at room temperature (1 stick)
- 2 tbsp Chopped fresh sage
- 2 tbsp Chopped fresh thyme
- 1 tbsp Chopped fresh rosemary
- 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup All-purpose flour
- 3 cups Chicken broth
- 1/2 cup Dry white wine
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
- Combine butter, sage, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Rub the butter mixture all over the turkey.
- Place the turkey in a roasting pan.
- Roast the turkey for 3 -4 hours, or until the juices run clear when you insert a knife into the thickest part of the thigh.
- Remove the turkey from the oven.
- Let it rest for 20 minutes before carving.
- Meanwhile, make the gravy
- Place the roasting pan on the stove over medium heat.
- Add the flour and stir until the flour is incorporated and forms a paste.
- Add the chicken broth and white wine, and bring to a boil.
- Cook until the gravy is thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Serve the gravy with the carved turkey.
- Enjoy!
How do I know when the turkey is done?
The best way to tell if a turkey is done is to insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh. The turkey is done when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Can I add or replace some ingredients?
Yes, you can add or replace some of the ingredients in this recipe. For example, you could use turkey broth instead of chicken broth or omit the white wine if you don’t want to use it.
Tips and tricks for a better turkey in an oven
1. Read the recipe thoroughly before beginning. This will help you understand the ingredients and the steps involved.
2. Preheat the oven and prepare the turkey according to the recipe instructions.
3. Place the turkey in the oven and cook for the specified time.
4. Check the turkey periodically to ensure that it is cooking evenly.
5. When the turkey is cooked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool.
6. Carving the turkey, remove all of the bones. Serve the turkey with your favorite side dishes.
Things to take care of while storing this recipe
First of all, make sure your turkey is completely cooked before storing it. Otherwise, it will spoil quickly.
- Store your turkey in a covered container in the refrigerator.
- Eat your turkey within three to four days of cooking it.
- If you want to keep your turkey longer, freeze it.
- To freeze your turkey, wrap it tightly in a freezer-safe wrap or place it in a freezer-safe bag.
- 6. Label your frozen turkey with the date it was frozen.
- Eat your frozen turkey within six to nine months.
- When you’re ready to eat your frozen turkey, thaw it in the refrigerator.
And finally, do not refreeze your thawed turkey.
Tips for making this recipe a bit spicier
- Add a few dashes of hot sauce to the turkey as it cooks.
- Sprinkle some cayenne pepper on top of the turkey before serving.
- Serve the turkey with a side of hot peppers or pepperoncini.
- Add some chopped jalapeño peppers to the stuffing recipe.
- Make a spicy gravy to top off the meal by adding some cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the gravy recipe.
12 side dishes to serve with 16-pound cooked turkey
- Mashed potatoes: You can never go wrong with mashed potatoes. They’re the perfect side to any main course, especially a big juicy turkey.
- Candied yams: Yams are a Thanksgiving staple for a reason. They’re sweet, savory, and go well with everything.
- Cornbread stuffing: This stuffing is extra moist and packed with flavor. It’s the perfect complement to a juicy turkey.
- Green beans: Green beans are a healthy and flavorful addition to any Thanksgiving feast.
- Cranberry sauce: Cranberry sauce is a must-have on Thanksgiving. It’s tart and sweet, and it pairs well with the rich flavors of the turkey and stuffing.
- Turkey gravy: Gravy is essential for tying all the flavors of the Thanksgiving meal together.
- Dinner rolls: Dinner rolls are the perfect way to soak up all the delicious gravy and juices from the turkey.
- Macaroni and cheese: This creamy and cheesy dish is always a hit with the kids. And adults will love it too!
- Pumpkin pie: No Thanksgiving is complete without pumpkin pie. It’s the perfect way to end a big meal.
- Sweet potato pie: Sweet potato pie is a delicious alternative to pumpkin pie. It’s rich and creamy, with a hint of sweetness.
- Apple pie: Apple pie is another classic Thanksgiving dessert. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and tart, and it goes well with a cup of coffee or tea.
- Pecan pie: Pecan pie is a rich and decadent dessert. It’s perfect for those who want something sweet after a hearty Thanksgiving meal.
Final Words
Cooking a turkey at 375 degrees Fahrenheit is a great way to ensure it is cooked through and juicy. Be sure to check on the turkey periodically, and when it is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool before carving. Serve with your favorite side dishes.
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