How To Cook Turkey In Nesco

Roasting a Perfect Turkey in your Nesco Roaster

Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate than with a deliciously roasted turkey? If you own a Nesco Roaster, you already have a handy tool that can help you achieve a perfectly cooked, juicy turkey that will impress your family and friends. In this guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of cooking a turkey in your Nesco Roaster, ensuring a mouthwatering centerpiece for your holiday feast.

What you’ll need:

• A Nesco Roaster
• A fresh or thawed turkey
• Olive oil or melted butter
• Seasonings of your choice
• Vegetables (optional)
• Roasting rack (optional)

Step 1: Prepare the Nesco Roaster

Before getting started, make sure your Nesco Roaster is clean and in good working condition. Set the temperature dial to 325°F (163°C) and preheat the roaster.

Step 2: Prepare and Season the Turkey

Ensure that your turkey is completely thawed if using a frozen one. Remove the giblets and neck from the cavity, and pat the turkey dry with paper towels. Brush the skin with olive oil or melted butter to promote a crispy, golden-brown exterior. Season the turkey generously with your favorite herbs and spices, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, and rosemary.

Step 3: Truss the Turkey (optional)

If you prefer a neat presentation, you can truss the turkey using kitchen twine to secure the legs and wings against the body. While not essential, trussing can help the turkey cook more evenly.

Step 4: Arrange the Turkey in the Nesco Roaster

Place the turkey on a roasting rack inside the Nesco Roaster, breast side up. The rack elevates the turkey, allowing hot air to circulate evenly around the bird for even cooking. If you don’t have a roasting rack, you can place the turkey directly on the roaster’s rack, but you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.

Step 5: Add Vegetables (optional)

For extra flavor and aroma, you can add vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery to the bottom of the Nesco Roaster. These will serve as a natural roasting rack and infuse the turkey with their delicious flavors. However, this step is entirely optional and can be omitted if desired.

Step 6: Roast the Turkey

Once the Nesco Roaster is preheated and the turkey is properly arranged, cover the roaster with the lid and set the timer. As a general rule, cook the turkey for approximately 13-15 minutes per pound (29-33 minutes per kilogram) until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. To ensure accuracy, use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.

Step 7: Let it Rest

Once the turkey has reached the desired temperature, carefully remove it from the Nesco Roaster and transfer it to a cutting board. Tent the turkey loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for about 20 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a moist and flavorful turkey.

Step 8: Carve and Serve

After the resting period, it’s time to carve your perfectly roasted turkey. Make sure to carve against the grain and slice the breast, leg, and thigh meat into thin, even slices. Arrange the slices on a platter and serve with your favorite Thanksgiving sides. Don’t forget to save the drippings to make a flavorful gravy!

With these simple steps, your Nesco Roaster can help you achieve a beautifully cooked turkey that will be the star of your Thanksgiving feast. Enjoy the joy and warmth of gathering around a delicious meal with your loved ones. Happy cooking and Happy Thanksgiving!