Finding the Perfect Roaster for Your 20 lb Turkey

As Thanksgiving and the holidays approach, many home cooks look forward to roasting a juicy, golden turkey as the centerpiece of festive meals However, finding the right size roasting pan can be a challenge when cooking a large bird like a 20 lb turkey I’ve roasted my fair share of turkeys over the years, and through trial and error discovered how to choose the ideal roasting pan size for a 20 lb turkey.

In this article I’ll share my tips on selecting the perfect roaster for your 20 lb turkey based on my own experience. We’ll cover how to determine the right dimensions pros and cons of different materials, frequently asked questions, as well as some bonus turkey roasting pointers so you can enjoy tender, flavorful results. Let’s get started!

What Size Roaster Do You Need for a 20 lb Turkey?

When it comes to finding the right roasting pan size for a big bird like a 20 lb turkey, larger is better. You want ample room around the turkey for good air circulation, which promotes even cooking. Here are the roaster dimensions I recommend for a 20 lb turkey:

• 17-18 inches long
• 12-13 inches wide
• 3-4 inches deep

This allows plenty of space around your turkey while also being deep enough to prevent drippings from spilling over. If your roasting pan is any smaller, it can lead to uneven cooking and overcrowding issues. I learned this lesson the hard way after attempting to cram a 20 lb turkey into a pan that was too snug!

Pros and Cons of Different Roasting Pan Materials

Roasting pans come in a variety of materials like aluminum, stainless steel, ceramic, glass, and more. Let’s quickly run through the pros and cons of each when it comes to roasting your Thanksgiving turkey:

• Aluminum – Excellent heat conductor for even browning. Disposable and affordable option. Can react with acidic foods.
• Stainless steel – More durable and oven safe. Heavier than other materials. Doesn’t conduct heat as evenly.
• Ceramic – Promotes browning and retains heat well. Fragile and heavy. Prone to chipping.
• Glass – Allows you to monitor browning. Not as durable. May need longer preheating.

For roasting poultry, I recommend a heavy-duty aluminum pan with a nonstick coating. Aluminum evenly conducts and distributes heat around your turkey for crispy skin. Nonstick coating helps prevent the bird from sticking as well as simplifies cleanup.

Make sure to avoid any pans with a rubberized handle, as the handle may not be oven safe at the high temperatures required for roasting. Look for pans with metal or cast iron handles.

Frequently Asked Questions About Roasting 20 lb Turkeys

Here are answers to some of the most common questions I get asked about roasting 20 lb turkeys in hopes it guides you in your prep:

Can I use a smaller roaster for a 20 lb turkey?

It’s not recommended. A pan that’s too small can hinder air circulation, leading to uneven cooking. Stick to a roaster with the dimensions mentioned earlier.

What if I don’t have a roaster big enough?

Consider using a disposable aluminum roasting pan, which comes in larger sizes. Or, separate your turkey into parts and use multiple smaller pans.

Should I use a lid on my roaster?

A lid can help retain moisture. But remove it towards the end to allow the skin to crisp up and turn golden brown.

Do I need a roasting rack?

Yes, a rack promotes air circulation and prevents the turkey from simmering in its own juices. Plus, the rack makes it easier to maneuver the turkey.

How long should I cook a 20 lb turkey?

Figure around 13-15 minutes per pound at 325°F. Use a meat thermometer to confirm it reaches 165°F at the thighs and breasts.

Can I use a convection oven?

Absolutely, just reduce cooking time by about 25% compared to a conventional oven.

Should I baste the turkey?

Basting adds moisture and flavor. I recommend basting every 30-45 minutes using the juices at the bottom of the pan.

How do I prevent the turkey from drying out?

Basting helps. You can also tent the breast with foil if it starts to overbrown. And always let the turkey rest before carving.

Turkey Roasting Tips and Tricks

Beyond selecting the right roaster, here are some bonus tips to ensure roasting success:

• Brine your turkey – Soaking your turkey in a saltwater brine seasoned with aromatics adds moisture and flavor.

• Pat turkey dry – Thoroughly drying the skin helps it crisp up beautifully in the oven.

• Rub skin with oil/butter – Coating the skin with oil or butter assists with browning.

• Roast breast side up – Placing the turkey with the breast facing up allows heat to penetrate the thicker breast meat.

• Rest before carving – Letting the turkey rest for 30 minutes after roasting allows juices to redistribute.

• Carve properly – Using the right carving technique, like starting with the legs and wings, makes serving easier.

Enjoy Your Perfectly Roasted 20 lb Turkey

Selecting the ideal roaster size is the first step towards turkey roasting success. By using a pan that’s around 17-18 inches long, 12-13 inches wide, and 3-4 inches deep, you allow ample room for your 20 lb turkey to cook to golden, juicy perfection.