Cooking a turkey in a Nesco roaster oven is a fantastic way to get juicy, tender meat without heating up your whole kitchen. Whether you’re preparing for Thanksgiving or a special family dinner, using a Nesco makes the process easier and often faster than a traditional oven. Here’s a friendly, step-by-step guide on how to cook a turkey in a Nesco, with tips to make your bird flavorful and perfectly roasted.
Why Choose a Nesco Roaster Oven?
Nesco roaster ovens are versatile countertop appliances that can roast large turkeys-up to 22 pounds in an 18-quart model. They have a durable cookwell and a rack that lets heat circulate evenly around the bird. Plus, they free up your oven for other dishes during big meals.
Preparing Your Turkey for the Nesco
Thawing the Turkey
If your turkey is frozen, it’s important to thaw it completely before cooking. The safest way is to thaw it in the refrigerator, allowing about one day for every five pounds of turkey. For example, a 20-pound turkey will take about four days to thaw.
If you’re short on time, you can thaw the turkey faster by keeping it in its original wrapping and submerging it in cold water. Change the water every 30 minutes, and it should thaw in about 10 hours for a 20-pound bird.
Cleaning and Seasoning
Once thawed, remove the neck and giblets from the cavity and rinse the turkey under cold water. Pat it dry with paper towels to help the skin crisp up during roasting.
For seasoning, you can keep it simple with salt, pepper, and poultry seasoning. A classic approach is to brush the turkey skin with melted butter or olive oil mixed with seasoning salt and herbs like sage, rosemary, thyme, or Herbs de Provence for extra flavor. Some like to add a splash of browning sauce to the butter mixture for a rich color.
Cooking Your Turkey in the Nesco Roaster Oven
Step 1: Preheat the Nesco
Preheat your Nesco roaster oven to 400°F if you’re using the 18-quart model. For smaller models like the 12-quart, a turkey up to 14 pounds is recommended, but cooking times per pound remain similar.
Step 2: Place the Turkey on the Rack
Put the turkey on the roasting rack inside the Nesco’s cooking well. If you like, stuff the cavity with aromatics such as onion, celery, apple slices, or garlic to add subtle flavor.
Step 3: Start Roasting at High Heat
Roast the turkey uncovered at 400°F for about one hour. This initial high heat helps brown and crisp the skin nicely.
Step 4: Lower the Temperature and Continue Roasting
After the first hour, reduce the temperature to 350°F and cover the roaster. Continue roasting for the remaining time, which is usually about 15 to 20 minutes per pound. If your turkey is stuffed, add an extra 30 to 45 minutes to the cooking time.
Step 5: Baste for Moisture and Flavor
About halfway through cooking, baste the turkey by removing any liquid and fat from the cavity and cookwell. Brush the bird with the basting liquid or additional melted butter to keep it moist.
If the turkey isn’t browning enough, you can increase the temperature back to 400°F for the last part of cooking.
Step 6: Check for Doneness
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The turkey is done when the thickest part of the thigh reaches 180°F. For safety and juiciness, the breast should be at least 165°F.
Step 7: Rest Before Carving
Remove the turkey carefully using the rack handles (they will be hot!). Let the turkey rest for at least 10 minutes before carving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Optional Tips for an Extra Flavorful Turkey
– Injection: Injecting the turkey with a broth mixture infused with herbs and white wine before roasting can add moisture and depth of flavor.
– Dry Brine: Rubbing the turkey with a salt and herb mixture and letting it rest uncovered in the fridge for 24 to 36 hours helps tenderize and season the meat deeply.
– Stuffing Alternatives: Instead of traditional stuffing, try placing sliced onions or garlic inside the cavity for a simple aromatic boost.
– Keeping Warm: If your turkey finishes early, reduce the roaster temperature to 200°F to keep it warm without drying it out.
Benefits of Using a Nesco Roaster Oven for Turkey
– Energy Efficient: Uses less energy than a full-sized oven.
– Space Saving: Frees up your main oven for side dishes.
– Even Cooking: The roaster’s design allows for consistent heat circulation.
– Juicy Results: The covered roasting environment helps retain moisture.
– Easy Cleanup: The removable cooking well and rack make cleaning simple.
Cooking a turkey in a Nesco roaster oven is straightforward and rewarding. With proper preparation, seasoning, and temperature control, you’ll enjoy a juicy, flavorful bird that impresses your family and friends every time. Happy roasting!