Cooking Up a Double Turkey Dinner: A Guide to Baking 2 Birds Together

For many families Thanksgiving just isn’t complete without a golden roasted turkey as the centerpiece of the feast. But if you’re hosting a large gathering one bird might not be enough to feed the whole crowd. That’s when it’s time to double up and learn how to bake two turkeys at once.

Cooking two turkeys together in one oven may sound tricky. But with some planning and a few simple tips, you can pull off a double turkey dinner with ease. In this guide, learn the benefits of roasting two smaller birds instead of one giant one, helpful hints for fitting both in the oven, recommended cook times, carving strategies, and more.

Discover how roasting two turkeys can simplify your holiday meal prep while delivering delicious juicy results. Let’s get this turkey party started!

Why Cook Two Smaller Turkeys?

You may think that roasting one huge 30-pound turkey is the best way to serve a crowd. But when it comes to getting tender, flavorful meat, smaller is better. Here are some benefits of cooking two 12-15 pound birds instead of one giant:

• Cooks faster – Less time in the oven means less chance of drying out.
• More tender – Smaller turkeys are younger with more delicate meat.
• Easier handling – Lifting smaller birds is much less strenuous.
• Juicier results – Less meat means quicker, more even cooking.
• Extra wishbone! – Two birds equals two fun wishbones to pull.
• Fun flavors – Season and stuff each turkey differently.

With two smaller birds, you’ll gain oven space for all your sides, avoid a long roasting time, and end up with delectable juicy meat.

Picking the Right Turkeys

For even cooking, choose two turkeys as close in size as possible, between 10-15 lbs each. You want birds that will fit comfortably in your oven without touching. Measure oven and roasting pan capacity before shopping.

Opt for high-quality fresh or frozen and thawed turkeys. Carefully check for any tears, leaks, or ice crystals which signal the bird has been damaged.

Oven Prep Tips

To bake both birds at once, you’ll need the right pans and tools:

• Roasting pans – Use two pans just large enough to hold turkeys without touching.
• Racks – Place each turkey on a rack in pan to elevate it.
• Thermometers – Have two instant-read thermometers to monitor doneness.
• Timer – Set timer to check turkeys and rotate pans.
• Aluminum foil – Tent turkeys with foil to prevent over-browning.

Position pans side-by-side on lower and middle racks so turkeys aren’t directly on top of each other. Allow at least 2 inches between pans and oven walls for air circulation.

Step-By-Step Baking Method

Follow these simple steps for perfectly baked double turkeys:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Pat turkeys dry and coat with oil or butter. Generously season.

2. Place each turkey breast-side up on a rack in a roasting pan with 1⁄2 cup water.

3. Tuck wing tips under and tie legs together with kitchen string. Add stuffing if desired.

4. Bake uncovered for 2 to 2 1⁄2 hours based on weight, rotating pans halfway through.

5. Tent pans with foil to prevent over-browning. Bake until 165°F in thickest part of breast and thigh.

6. Let rest 30 minutes before carving. Slice and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Cook Times for Two Smaller Turkeys

Here are approximate roasting times for two unstuffed 10-15 pound turkeys:

• 10-12 lbs: 2 – 2 1⁄4 hours
• 12-14 lbs: 2 1⁄4 – 2 1⁄2 hours
• 14-15 lbs: 2 1⁄2 – 3 hours

For stuffed turkeys, increase time by 30 minutes. Check temperature to confirm doneness instead of going by time alone.

Carving and Serving Strategies

To keep your double turkey dinner running smoothly, have a game plan for carving and serving:

• Carve one turkey at a time, covering the second to keep warm.

• Slice breast meat across the grain into thin, even pieces.

• Cut leg meat off bones before slicing. Discard skin after carving.

• Arrange white and dark meat separately on platters for easy serving.

• Offer turkey pan gravy and cranberry sauce on the side.

• Keep sliced meat warm in a low oven until serving time.

With two golden turkeys featuring tender, juicy meat all your guests will love, your holiday dinner will be twice as nice!

Key Takeaways for Roasting Two Turkeys

Cooking two smaller birds together simplifies holiday meal prep while delivering better flavor. Keep these tips in mind:

• Choose similar-size turkeys between 10-15 lbs each.

• Use adequate roasting pans and prep tools for both turkeys.

• Follow roasting times for a single smaller turkey, not the total weight.

• Check internal temperature to confirm doneness.

• Let turkeys rest before evenly carving and serving.

With proper planning and technique, you’ll have a showstopping turkey times two! Your guests will be gobbling up the juicy, tender meat while you relax and enjoy the holiday. Happy Thanksgiving!