As Thanksgiving approaches, home cooks everywhere start planning their holiday menus. The star of the show is always a golden brown turkey roasted to perfection. But with your regular oven occupied by sides and desserts, how do you make room for the bird? The secret is using a countertop Hamilton Beach roaster oven to free up oven space.
I’ve been cooking Thanksgiving turkey in a roaster for over 20 years since my parents started the tradition. The moist flavorful results convinced me it’s absolutely the best method. In this article, I’ll share my foolproof tips for roasting turkey in a Hamilton Beach roaster oven. Follow my guide for a stress-free Thanksgiving with a juicy, delicious turkey.
Why Roast Turkey in a Roaster Oven?
Roaster ovens offer many advantages for cooking turkey:
- Frees up the regular oven for side dishes and pies
- Large capacity fits up to a 28 lb turkey
- Self-basting lid keeps the meat super moist
- Convenient lifting rack simplifies getting the heavy bird in and out
- Cooks the turkey up to 40% faster than a standard oven
- Keeps it piping hot until you’re ready to carve
With so many benefits, it’s no wonder roaster ovens are a popular Turkey Day tool.
Choosing the Right Bird
When buying a turkey for your Hamilton Beach roaster, select a fresh or completely thawed 14-15 lb turkey. Frozen birds won’t cook evenly. Be sure to thaw frozen turkeys for at least 2 days in the fridge before roasting.
Also, don’t stuff the turkey cavity. Stuffing it can lead to bacteria growth. Cook stuffing separately for food safety.
Pre-Roast Prep
Before cooking, prep the roaster oven and turkey:
- Remove giblets and neck from the cavities. Save for gravy.
- Rinse turkey inside and out with cold water. Pat dry.
- Rub skin all over with melted butter or oil for crisping.
- Generously season the outside and underside of skin with salt, pepper and herbs.
- Remove oven rack. Preheat roaster to 325°F.
Cook Times
The roaster oven significantly speeds up cooking. A 14-15 lb turkey takes only 1 1⁄2 – 2 hours to fully roast versus 3-4 hours in a regular oven. The tight lid locks in moisture and heat.
Checking Doneness
Always use a meat thermometer to determine doneness, not just cook times. Insert the probe into the thickest breast area without touching bone. Cook until it registers 165°F for safe consumption.
Resting and Carving
Once the turkey reaches 165°F, remove it from the roaster oven. Loosely tent with foil and let rest 30 minutes so juices redistribute. The closed roaster will keep it hot.
To carve, first slice the breast meat by cutting thin slices across the grain. Next, remove the legs and continue carving the rest.
Serving
Present the roasted turkey on a large platter garnished with herbs. Surround with classic Thanksgiving side dishes and enjoy this home cooked meal with family and friends.
Turkey Roasting Tips
Follow these extra tips from my years of experience:
- Rub seasoning under the skin for added flavor throughout
- Add onions, celery and herbs in the cavity for moisture and flavor
- Rely on a meat thermometer for accuracy, not just the pop-up timer
- Tent the turkey with foil while resting to retain heat and moisture
- Let it rest at least 20-30 minutes before slicing to allow juices to absorb back into the meat
- Use drippings to make the most delicious gravy and stuffing
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to roast a turkey in a roaster oven?
Figure around 90 minutes per pound. A 14 lb turkey takes about 2 1/2 – 3 hours at 325°F. Check the internal temperature.
What size turkey fits in a roaster oven?
Hamilton Beach roaster ovens hold 20-28 lb birds. Measure your oven before buying your turkey.
Should you stuff a turkey in a roaster oven?
No. Skip stuffing which won’t cook properly and can cause bacteria growth. Cook it separately.
What temperature do you cook turkey in a roaster oven?
Cook at 325°F, monitoring the temperature until it reaches 165°F in the thickest part of the breast.
How do you get crispy turkey skin in a roaster oven?
Rub the skin with oil or butter before cooking. Baste periodically and increase heat at the end if needed.
Be sure to follow proper thawing, handling and food safety guidelines for the best results. With a Hamilton Beach roaster oven, you’ll have a stress-free Thanksgiving with a moist, delicious turkey alongside all the fixings.
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