Turkey 101
Thanksgiving wouldn’t be complete without a golden, juicy turkey at the center of the table. With a little planning and know-how, you can serve a turkey that’s tender, flavorful, and sure to impress. Here’s how to make your holiday meal your best yet.
Thaw Your Turkey the Right Way
Proper thawing is key. Plan for 24 hours of refrigerator thawing for every four to five pounds of turkey. Never thaw at room temperature to keep your bird safe and fresh. Once thawed, your turkey can stay in the fridge for up to two days before roasting.
Timing Is Everything
Start prepping your turkey about an hour before it goes into the oven. Roast for 15 to 18 minutes per pound, or roughly 3 to 3¾ hours for a 12- to 14-pound bird. Before carving, let it rest at room temperature for 20 minutes—this keeps the meat juicy and makes slicing effortless.
Check the Temperature
Use an instant-read thermometer in the thickest part of the thigh without touching the bone. The juices should run clear, and the internal temperature should reach 165°F in both the breast and thigh. Keep in mind that residual heat continues to cook the turkey while it rests, so pulling it from the oven at 160°F can be ideal.
Make Your Meal Extra Special with Wine & Cheese
Thanksgiving is the perfect time to indulge in delicious pairings. At Busch’s, your local grocery store, we offer a curated selection of fine wines and cheeses to complement every dish on your table. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, our expert pairings make your holiday entertaining effortless and memorable.
Plan-ahead Thawing: Allow 24 hours of thawing for every four to five pounds. Always remember to thaw the turkey in the refrigerator, never at room temperature. You can keep a fully thawed turkey in the refrigerator for up to two days.
Turkey Timetable: Start preparing your turkey about an hour before roasting. Allow about 15 to 18 minutes of roasting time per pound or 3 to 3-3/4 hours for a 12- to 14-pound turkey. Allow the turkey to stand at room temperature 20 minutes before carving – this makes the turkey both juicier and easier to carve.
Temperature is Key: To check the doneness of the turkey, insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh, making sure the thermometer does not touch the bone. Look for juices to run clear from the thigh. The final temperature in the breast and thigh should reach 165°. Residual heat will continue to cook the turkey while it stands, so you may want to remove the turkey from the oven when it reaches 160°.
At Busch’s, your trusted grocery store, we take pride in offering a curated selection of fine wines and cheeses that cater to every palate. We offer the highest quality, farm-fresh options that ensure the best taste for your holiday meal. Choosing a farm-fresh turkey not only enhances the flavor but also supports local producers dedicated to quality and tradition. Whether you’re planning a holiday gathering or a cozy night in, your local grocery store is the go-to destination for expert pairings that elevate your entertaining game.