Before You Get Started
There are many ways to achieve the perfect turkey for your holiday gathering, and we’ll address four of them in this step-by-step guide. The method you prefer will depend on many factors, including time spent, whether you’re on a budget, and what you like when it comes to taste and tenderness.
Option 1: The Brine Method
How Long Does It Take to Brine?
A properly brined turkey takes time. To get flavor and moisture absorbed into the skin, you’ll need somewhere between 18 and 38 hours, depending on the size of the turkey. The rule of thumb is 45 minutes per pound of turkey (approximately 28 hours for 15 pounds and 38 hours for 20 pounds).
Why Should I Brine My Turkey?
When we say brining elevates your main holiday entrée, we mean maximum taste and tenderness in every bite. That’s because a well-made brine allows flavor and moisture to absorb into the skin of the turkey.
Plus, brining leaves room to play with different flavors. So the finished product all depends on the herbs and spices you choose. And it’s easy! All you need to do is mix the ingredients in a pot, submerge your turkey, and let it brine in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
Ready to put this method to the test? Head to our Tips & Advice page to read the “Brine Your Turkey for a Juicy Entrée” article (URL TBD).
Option 2: Injecting Your Turkey
Benefits of Injecting a Turkey
Who doesn’t like the idea of a self-basting turkey? With the injection method, flavor and moisture infuse into the meat while you leave it to cook.
All you need to do is combine butter, spices, and stock in a basting bowl, then inject your mixture into the meat before cooking. Easy and delicious!
For the full guide on injecting a turkey, read our “How to Inject a Turkey” Tips & Advice article (URL TBD).
Option 3: Butter-Coated Turkey
Elevate Your Turkey with Butter & Herbs
When you’ve got butter, turkey, and a craving for a delicious holiday entrée, butter-coated turkey is the way to go. Go beyond just rubbing oil and spices onto the skin of your turkey.
With a butter coating, you’ll add moisture and flavor to every layer by creating a barrier between the meat and skin. As it cooks, continue adding flavor by basting your turkey with even more butter.
[Pro tip: Make it your own! This is your chance to get creative, flavoring your butter with ingredients like garlic, rosemary, thyme, Cajun seasoning, etc.]
Read the full butter-coated turkey recipe here (URL TBD) if you want to give this a shot.
Option 4: Bacon-Wrapped Turkey
Wrap Your Turkey in Meaty Goodness
We know. You’re one of those “no such thing as too much meat” kind of people. Say no more. Blanketing your turkey in a bacon weave adds moisture and flavor, and you get the BEST pan drippings to use for gravy.
Plus, the bacon adds a layer of protection to stop the skin from drying out as it cooks. A great way to avoid overcooking!
Think this prep style is the one for you? Read this Tips & Advice article (URL TBD) to learn how to make a bacon-wrapped turkey.
You’ve Chosen Your Method. What’s Next?
After deciding how to flavor your turkey, you’re ready to cook a delicious holiday entrée for guests. We’ve got you covered for that, too! Just check out the Ace Tips & Advice article, “Tips for Grilling or Smoking a Turkey,” to get started.
