Thanksgiving dinner isn’t complete without a perfectly golden-brown turkey as the centerpiece of your spread. Getting that perfect bird isn’t as hard as it may seem, and with the right technique, you can make a 21 pound turkey just right. To help you out, we’ve put together this guide on how long to cook a 21 pound turkey. Read on for all the details you need to know to get your turkey just right this Thanksgiving.
Contents
Preparing the Bird
Before you can even think about cooking, you need to prep your turkey. First, take the turkey out of the refrigerator and let it sit for about an hour before cooking. This allows it to come to room temperature and ensures more even cooking.
Next, season your bird. You can use a store-bought rub, or make up your own blend with herbs and spices like rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure to get the rub all over the turkey, including underneath the skin.
Once you have your turkey prepped, you’re ready to get cooking.
Roasting Times
Now that your bird is prepped, you’ll need to know how long to cook a 21 pound turkey. The roasting time will depend on the type of oven you have, so it’s important to check the instructions on your oven. Generally, a 21 pound bird will need to cook for about 4 hours at 325 degrees Fahrenheit.
How to Check for Doneness
Once your turkey has been roasting for the recommended amount of time, it’s important to make sure it’s cooked all the way through. The best way to do this is to use an instant read thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh, making sure it doesn’t touch the bone. The turkey is done when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Resting and Carving
Once the turkey has reached the correct temperature, it’s time to take it out of the oven. Let the bird rest for 20-30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute and helps keep the turkey moist.
When it’s time to carve, be sure to use a sharp knife and cut against the grain. This will help ensure the turkey is tender and juicy.
Safety Tips
When cooking a turkey, it’s important to take safety into consideration. Make sure to wash your hands before and after handling the bird, and keep raw turkey away from other food. It’s also a good idea to use a food thermometer to make sure the bird is cooked all the way through.
Table of Data
| Weight | Cooking Time |
|---|---|
| 21 pounds | 4 hours |
The Bottom Line
Cooking a 21 pound turkey isn’t as hard as it may seem. With the right technique and a bit of patience, you can have a perfectly golden-brown turkey for your Thanksgiving feast. Just remember to prep the bird beforehand, roast it for the recommended amount of time, and check for doneness with a food thermometer. And don’t forget to rest and carve it carefully for the juiciest, most tender turkey.
And as Jimmy Buffett said, “If life gives you limes, make margaritas!” So, don’t forget to make a margarita or two to enjoy while you wait for your turkey to cook.
Happy Thanksgiving!
