Fitting a Turkey in a Double Oven: A Thanksgiving Feast How-To

Come Thanksgiving, a beautifully roasted turkey takes center stage on the holiday table. But if you have a double oven, you may be wondering – can it actually fit a turkey inside? The short answer is yes – with some planning and prep, a double oven can comfortably accommodate the typical 15 to 20 pound bird. Here’s everything you need to know to roast turkey success in your double oven.

Double Oven Sizes and Turkey Capacity

Double ovens come in a range of sizes, but most have around 5 cubic feet of total cooking capacity Each individual oven offers approximately 25 cubic feet of space. Here’s how standard turkey sizes compare

• Small turkeys (10-14 lbs): Require 2+ cubic feet
• Medium turkeys (15-19 lbs): Require 2.5 cubic feet
• Large turkeys (20-24 lbs): Require 3 cubic feet
• Extra large turkeys (25+ lbs): Require 3.5+ cubic feet

As you can see even an exceptionally large 25+ pound turkey should fit into a standard double oven. But it’s always smart to measure your actual oven capacity to confirm.

Picking the Right Turkey Size

When selecting your holiday bird, choose a turkey size that comfortably fits your oven capacity and number of guests Here are some tips

• Allow 1 pound of turkey per person for ample portions.
• Add a couple extra pounds for leftovers – who doesn’t love turkey sandwiches?
• Measure oven capacity and compare to turkey sizes listed above.
• For especially large gatherings, consider cooking two smaller turkeys.

Getting a turkey that’s too large for your oven will lead to uneven cooking and frustration. So take the time to match the bird to your oven’s capabilities.

Thawing a Frozen Turkey in a Double Oven

Many turkeys are sold frozen. Safely thaw before cooking in your double oven using one of these methods:

• Refrigerator: Allow 24 hours for every 4-5 lbs of turkey. Place in a pan to catch drips.
• Cold Water: Change water every 30 minutes. Allow 30 minutes thawing time per 1 lb of turkey.
• Microwave: Follow owner’s manual. Cook immediately after thawing.

Never thaw at room temperature or cook a frozen or partially frozen turkey. That’s a recipe for foodborne illness.

Seasoning and Preparing Your Turkey

While precooked turkeys are already seasoned, you can add extra flavor with a simple compound butter rub:

• Soften 1 stick butter
• Mix in 1 tsp each dried thyme, sage, rosemary, salt, and pepper
• Rub butter all over turkey and under skin

Truss the turkey legs together with kitchen string to maintain the bird’s shape. Place turkey breast-side up on a roasting rack in a pan.

Cooking Time and Temperature

Refer to this handy turkey roasting time chart for double ovens:

• 10-18 lbs: Cook at 325°F for 3 to 3.5 hours
• 18-22 lbs: Cook at 325°F for 3.5 to 4.5 hours
• 22-24 lbs: Cook at 325°F for 4 to 4.5 hours

Always rely on a meat thermometer for doneness over oven time. Insert into the thickest part of the thigh and cook until it reaches 165°F. Let rest 20 minutes before carving.

Roasting Tips for Maximum Juiciness

To prevent your turkey from drying out, use these roasting tips:

• Place turkey on a roasting rack in a pan with 1 cup water added. The steam from the water keeps the turkey moist.
• Tent foil loosely over the turkey to seal in juices.
• Baste with turkey broth every 30 minutes while roasting.
• Resist opening the oven door frequently to maintain heat.
• Cook stuffing in a separate dish to prevent bacterial contamination.

Getting the Most From Your Double Oven

A double oven makes easy work of cooking an entire Thanksgiving feast. Follow these tips:

• Roast the turkey in one oven, and side dishes in the other.
• Use different temperature settings for dishes requiring varied heat.
• Cook multiple items at once to free up stovetop space.
• Reheat dishes in one oven as you roast the turkey in the other.

Handy Double Oven Thanksgiving Side Dishes

While the turkey roasts, use your double oven to prepare delicious side dishes like:

• Creamy mashed potatoes
• Savory stuffing or dressing
• Sweet potato casserole with toasted marshmallows
• Roasted autumn vegetables
• Baked mac and cheese
• Fresh cranberry sauce
• Pumpkin, pecan or apple pie

Having two ovens lets you cook all the trimmings simultaneously for a perfect holiday spread.

Food Safety Tips for Avoiding Illness

Improper handling of raw turkey can lead to foodborne bacterial contamination. Follow these tips:

• Refrigerate raw turkey right away and cook within 2 days.
• Wash hands, utensils, and surfaces after raw turkey contact.
• Use separate cutting boards and knives for raw turkey.
• Cook turkey thoroughly to 165°F internal temperature.
• Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours and reheat fully before eating.

Double Oven Turkey Roasting Success

With proper planning and technique, your double oven can easily accommodate the star of the Thanksgiving show – a plump, juicy roast turkey. Use both ovens to multitask sides and desserts for a streamlined holiday meal. Just follow oven capacity guidelines and food safety rules, and your Turkey Day feast will be one for the ages without a hitch.