Learn how to roast two small turkeys instead of one large turkey. They’ll roast in less time, be easier to carve, plus you’ll have four of everything! This recipe tip is perfect for beginners who are preparing their first Thanksgiving meal.
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Cooking two turkey breasts simultaneously can be a great way to prepare a smaller turkey dinner. But is it possible to cook two turkey breasts at the same time and have them finish cooking evenly? Let’s look at some tips and tricks to roast two turkey breasts together successfully.
Choosing Similar Sized Turkey Breasts is Key
Cooking two turkey breasts at the same time works best when the breasts are close in size and weight. Try to find packages of turkey breast that are within a half pound of each other. This way, they will take roughly the same amount of time to cook through.
If there is a large difference in size like 2 lbs vs 4 lbs, the smaller breast will likely dry out and overcook while waiting for the larger one to finish So if you can only find different sized breasts, it’s better to cook them separately to ensure even cooking
Proper Arrangement in the Roasting Pan
Place both turkey breasts in a roasting pan, lined with foil for easy cleanup. Position them meat-side up, leaving space between for air circulation.
Resist stacking the breasts or tightly packing them in. You want the hot air to be able to reach all surfaces evenly.
Cook Time and Temperature
The general rule of thumb is to base your cook time on the larger breast For example, if you have a 2 lb and 3 lb breast, use the cook time for the 3 lb
Cook at 325°F and calculate time as follows
- 1-3 lbs: Cook for 1 3⁄4 – 2 1⁄4 hours
- 4-6 lbs: Cook for 2 1⁄4 – 2 1⁄2 hours
- 6-12 lbs: Cook for 2 1⁄2 – 3 3⁄4 hours
Since you are cooking two breasts, extend the total cook time by 10-15 minutes. Check for doneness with a meat thermometer, looking for 170°F.
Monitor the Progress
Even with similar sizes, one breast may cook faster than the other. Use an instant read thermometer to regularly check the temp of each.
If the smaller starts to overcook, remove it earlier and tent with foil. Let the larger one finish up.
Choose the Right Roasting Pan Size
Use a roasting pan that provides enough room for both breasts, but isn’t overly large. Too much empty space can prevent the breasts from browning evenly.
Aim for a pan that allows 2-3 inches between the breasts and sides. You want some gap for airflow but not huge empty spaces.
Basting and Seasoning
Brush both turkey breasts with melted butter or oil before cooking for maximum browning and flavor. Generously season with dried herbs like sage, thyme, and rosemary along with salt and pepper.
Baste periodically during roasting, and add extra seasoning if needed toward the end. The skin should brown nicely without drying out.
Let the Turkey Breasts Rest Before Carving
Once the turkey breasts are finished cooking, remove them from the oven and tent loosely with foil. Let rest 15-20 minutes before slicing to allow juices to reabsorb.
Otherwise they will leak out when you carve, resulting in drier meat. Resist cutting into them too soon!
Cook Stuffing Separately
It’s safest to cook stuffing or dressing outside the turkey cavities. This prevents it from being undercooked. Bake it alongside in a casserole dish so everything finishes together.
Cook White and Dark Meat Separately
For whole turkeys, dark meat in the legs and thighs takes longer to cook than white breast meat. That’s why cooking just the two breasts together works well.
If you do purchase a whole turkey, remove the legs/thighs and cook them separately from the breast for even doneness.
Enjoy Perfectly Cooked Turkey
With some simple tips, you can successfully roast two turkey breasts at the same time. Choosing similar sizes, using a proper roasting pan, and monitoring temperature will ensure both finish up moist and delicious. Now just add your favorite sides and enjoy!
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Can you cook 2 bone in turkey breasts at the same time?
FAQ
How long to cook two turkey breasts at the same time?
Brush turkey with oil. Place turkey breasts in bag on top of vegetables. Close oven bag with nylon tie; cut six 1/2 inch slits in top. Bake 1 1/2 to 2 1/4 hours or until meat thermometer reads 170 degrees.
Does it take longer to cook 2 turkeys in the same oven?
If you have two 12-pound turkeys, roast them for the same amount of time as if you only had one, which is 2¾ to 3 hours at 325°F. And don’t forget your thermometer! Your turkey is done when it registers 175°F in the thigh and 165°F in the breast.
Can you cook two turkey breasts in one oven bag?
Yes, you can cook two small turkeys or two turkey breasts at the same time if your oven is large enough for the heat to circulate between the pieces of meat and for the bag(s) to expand without touching the oven racks or walls.
Can you cook two Jennie O’ turkey breasts at the same time?
Can I roast two turkeys at the same time? Yes, though cooking time will increase. ALWAYS confirm doneness with a meat thermometer, which should read 180°F when inserted into the thickest part of the thigh.
Can you cook two Turkey breasts at the same time?
If you plan to roast the turkey breasts in the oven, you’ll need to make sure there is enough space in the oven for both of them. If you’re using a different cooking method, such as grilling or smoking, you may have an easier time cooking both turkey breasts simultaneously. 1. How long does it take to cook two turkey breasts at the same time?
Can one have turkey and carrots?
Eating turkey and carrots is part of healthy habits. The turkey has meat like chicken and is another healthy poultry option. Carrots are rich in carotenoids, it is a source of vitamin A, fiber, potassium and vitamin B3.
Can you cook two turkeys at a time?
Here are some tips to remember when cooking two turkeys at one time: Choose the right roasting pan: For a 9- to 12-pound turkey, choose a shallow roasting pan no more than three inches deep; place a rack in the bottom of the pan to elevate the turkey above the pan drippings. Two compact 13×9 roasting pans should allow both birds to fit in the oven.
How do you cook a turkey breast separately?
If you can only find different sized breasts, it’s better to cook them separately. Place both turkey breasts in a roasting pan, lined with foil for easy cleanup. Position them meat-side up leaving space between for air circulation. Resist stacking the breasts or tightly packing them in. You want the hot air to reach all surfaces evenly.
How long do you cook two Turkey breasts at 350?
A: The cooking time for two turkey breasts will vary depending on the size of the breasts, but a good rule of thumb is to cook them for 15 minutes per pound at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. So, if you have two 4-pound turkey breasts, you would cook them for 60 minutes. Q: What temperature should I cook two turkey breasts together?
Can you cook 2 Turkey breasts in a bag?
Yes. Cooking two turkeys of about the same weight does not double the roasting time. Cooking time is determined by the weight of one bird. Just make sure there is sufficient oven space for proper heat circulation. Can you cook 2 turkey breasts in bag?