Turkey Time

Have you ever tried cooking your turkey without an oven? We wanted to share four options you can consider for preparing your big bird that will leave your oven available for the supporting characters like yams, rolls and pies!

Air Fryer
An air fryer is a great tool with so many uses. If you go this route, we recommend finding a turkey on the smaller side--about 3 or 4 pounds. Apply your choice of spices to the outside of the bird using oil or butter to help them stick. Once ready, lay the turkey breast side down in your air fryer. Refer to your manual for cooking times and temperature. Cooking until the internal temperature of the meat is 165 degrees.

When you remove the turkey from the air fryer, allow it to sit for 10 - 15 minutes before cutting into the meat. This will give the juices a chance to absorb into the meat instead of running out when cut and leading to a dry turkey.

Pressure Cooker (Instant Pot)
You may have used your pressure cooker to prepare other items for your Thanksgiving day meal but what about giving your turkey a try in there?

Pat the outside of the turkey dry and then apply salt and pepper. Add any aromatic ingredients like onions, garlic and carrots. Refer to your manual for cooking times and temperatures.

Slow Cooker
"Set it and forget it" is the phrase most associated with your slow cooker but that doesn't mean it isn't capable of a high profile item like your Thanksgiving Day turkey.

Prepare your turkey with the seasonings and liquids you prefer. Refer to your manual for cooking times and temperatures.

Smoked
Smoking a turkey creates a wonderful flavor that is hard to replicate with any other cooking method. Make sure you're using a meat smoker that has the capacity for your bird. Follow the manual for suggestions on preparation, cooking times and serving.