What Size Turkey Fits in a 6-Quart Instant Pot? A Complete Guide

With Thanksgiving right around the corner, many home cooks are wondering what size turkey will fit in their 6-quart Instant Pot. The versatile Instant Pot has become a popular way to cook turkey, as it produces juicy, tender meat in a fraction of the traditional oven roasting time. But with its compact size, there are limitations on how big of a bird you can cook. In this article, we’ll provide a complete guide on what size turkey fits in a 6-qt Instant Pot, along with tips for selecting, preparing and cooking your turkey.

How To Determine What Size Turkey Fits

The size of turkey that will fit in your 6-quart Instant Pot depends on a few key factors

• The capacity of your specific Instant Pot model
• The dimensions and shape of your turkey
• Whether you stuff the turkey or cook it unstuffed
• Accessories used like a trivet or sling

Most 6-qt Instant Pots have an internal capacity of around 5-6 quarts when you account for the maximum fill line This means you can safely cook a 6 lb, unstuffed turkey or a 5 lb stuffed turkey in a standard 6-quart Instant Pot,

However, not all turkeys are shaped the same, so the pounds aren’t always an accurate way to determine fit. Compact, rounded turkeys fit better than those that are very tall or broad. You’ll want to carefully check the dimensions of your Instant Pot inner pot and compare to the turkey’s size before purchasing

Using a trivet or stainless steel wire rack can add more vertical space if your turkey is slightly taller. A roasting sling can compress the turkey to make it a bit more compact.

Tips for Selecting the Right Size Turkey

When selecting a turkey for your 6-qt Instant Pot, keep these tips in mind:

• Opt for a size between 5-6 pounds at the most
• Look for a compact, rounded shape instead of a very broad or tall bird
• Allow 1 pound per person when calculating turkey size
• Buy unstuffed to allow more interior space
• If stuffing, reduce size to a 5 lb. turkey maximum
• Choose fresh vs. frozen to better determine shape and fit
• Inspect dimensions and measure if unsure

Buying a turkey within the right size range for your Instant Pot ensures there’s ample room for it to cook properly. It prevents overfilling which can lead to unsafe pressurization. Carefully inspecting the shape and dimensions guarantees a good fit.

Prepping Your Turkey for the Instant Pot

Proper prep is key to maximizing flavor and ensuring your Instant Pot turkey cooks evenly. Here are some tips:

• Thaw fully if using frozen turkey
• Remove giblets and neck from cavities
• Dry brine turkey in fridge 1-2 days before cooking
• Season all over with salt, pepper and aromatic herbs
• Rub butter/oil over skin and under skin
• Place aromatics like onions, garlic in pot with 1 cup broth
• Use a trivet or rack below turkey if very large

Doing a dry brine in advance helps infuse the meat with flavor and keeps it juicy. Seasoning under and on the skin, along with oil or butter ensures delicious seasoned flavor. The trivet or rack prevents burning and allows more vertical space.

Cooking Times for Turkey in a 6-Qt Instant Pot

Cooking times can vary based on the size and shape of your turkey, but here are general guidelines:

• 5 lb. unstuffed turkey: ~30 minutes
• 6 lb. unstuffed turkey: ~35 minutes
• 5 lb. stuffed turkey: ~40 minutes
• Use manual or poultry setting on high pressure
• Allow 10 minute natural pressure release
• Check internal temp, continue cooking if under 165oF

The depressurization time is key to allowing the turkey to continue cooking gently without overcooking the outer areas. Always check the internal temperature in multiple spots with a meat thermometer to ensure doneness. If underdone, you can simmer on sauté mode until the 165oF safe temperature is reached.

Helpful Accessories

Using certain accessories can make cooking turkey in the Instant Pot easier:

• Turkey Lifters: Help easily maneuver the turkey in and out of the pot
• Wire Racks/Trivets: Add more vertical space and prevent burning on pot bottom
• Roasting Slings: Holds turkey compressed to maximize capacity
• Temperature Probe: Monitors turkey temp without opening lid
• Springform Pan: Use to hold stuffing instead of stuffing turkey

The right accessories enable you to comfortably fit a larger turkey or make the process much easier. A springform pan for stuffing frees up more internal real estate. The other gadgets listed help with monitoring doneness, avoiding burns and maneuvering the turkey.

Handling Leftovers

One of the bonuses of Instant Pot turkey is leftovers! Here are tips for storing and reusing them:

• Allow turkey to cool 1 hour before refrigerating
• Separate white and dark meat into containers
• Use leftovers within 3-4 days
• Refrigerate stuffing and gravy separately
• Slice, dice or shred turkey to reheat
• Use in casseroles, sandwiches, salads and soups

Properly storing and handling leftovers prevents spoilage and food borne illness. Shredding or cutting turkey makes it ideal for quick weeknight meals like salads, wraps or turkey tetrazzini. Get creative with your leftovers!

Key Takeaways

• A 6-quart Instant Pot can accommodate a 5-6 lb. unstuffed turkey or 5 lb. stuffed turkey
• Carefully inspect turkey shape and dimensions before purchasing
• Allow 1 lb. per person when selecting turkey size
• Use accessories like trivets or slings for a better fit
• Cook for 30-40 minutes on high pressure depending on size
• Rely on your meat thermometer for doneness of 165oF
• Store leftovers properly and repurpose in creative ways

With proper selection, preparation and cooking technique, you can easily make moist, delicious turkey in your 6-quart Instant Pot for Thanksgiving or any time of year. Just be sure to stay within the size limits to ensure pot capacity. Get ready to enjoy tender, juicy turkey cooked to perfection in your multi-use Instant Pot!