How to cook a 15 lb butterball turkey? - Chef's Resource (2025)

How to Cook a 15 lb Butterball Turkey?

Cooking a 15 lb Butterball turkey can be a delightful and rewarding experience. With the right techniques and a bit of planning, you can achieve a juicy and flavorful turkey that will be the highlight of your Thanksgiving meal. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to cook a 15 lb Butterball turkey to perfection.

1. **Thawing the Turkey**: The first and most important step is to thaw the turkey. Place the frozen turkey in the refrigerator, allowing 24 hours of thawing time for every 4-5 pounds of turkey. A 15 lb turkey will take approximately 3-4 days to thaw fully.

2. **Preparing the Turkey**: Before cooking, remove the giblets and neck from the turkey cavity and rinse the turkey thoroughly inside and out with cold water. Pat it dry using paper towels.

3. **Seasoning the Turkey**: Liberally season the turkey with salt, pepper, and your desired herbs and spices. You can create a flavorful rub by combining herbs like rosemary, thyme, sage, and garlic powder.

4. **Preheating the Oven**: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Ensure the oven rack is positioned in the lower-third of your oven to allow even cooking.

5. **Using a Roasting Pan**: Place the seasoned turkey in a roasting pan with the breast side facing up. If desired, elevate the turkey on a roasting rack to allow heat circulation.

6. **Basting the Turkey**: While not necessary, basting the turkey every hour with pan juices or melted butter can add extra flavor and help keep the meat moist. Be cautious when opening the oven to avoid temperature fluctuations.

7. **Using a Meat Thermometer**: Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the turkey’s thigh without touching the bone. The turkey is safe to consume when the thermometer reads 165°F (74°C) for both the thigh and the stuffing.

8. **Cooking Time**: Turkeys typically cook around 13-15 minutes per pound. Therefore, a 15 lb turkey will take approximately 3-4 hours to cook. However, it’s crucial to rely on the meat thermometer for accurate cooking times.

9. **Taking Rest**: Once the turkey reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 15-20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to distribute evenly throughout the meat.

10. **Carving the Turkey**: Begin carving by removing the legs, followed by the wings. Then, slice the breast meat against the grain into thin, even pieces. Serve and enjoy!

After covering the main steps, here are a few frequently asked questions about cooking a Butterball turkey:

1. Can I cook a frozen Butterball turkey?

It is essential to thaw the turkey fully before cooking for safe and even cooking.

2. What can I use to season the turkey stuffing?

Season the stuffing with herbs and spices such as sage, rosemary, thyme, or poultry seasoning, along with onions, celery, and bread cubes.

3. Should I cover the turkey with foil while cooking?

Covering the turkey with foil during the first half of cooking helps prevent the skin from browning too quickly and drying out.

4. Can I stuff the turkey?

Yes, you can stuff the turkey. Ensure the stuffing reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

5. How often should I baste the turkey?

Basting the turkey every hour adds flavor and keeps the meat moist. However, frequent oven door openings can affect cooking time, so it’s not strictly necessary.

6. Can I cook the turkey at a higher temperature to cook it faster?

It’s recommended to cook the turkey at a lower temperature (325°F) for even cooking. Cooking at a higher temperature can result in unevenly cooked meat.

7. Do I need to use a roasting rack?

While not essential, using a roasting rack elevates the turkey, allowing hot air to circulate around it for even cooking.

8. How do I know when the turkey is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The turkey should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thigh and stuffing.

9. Can I cook the turkey on a grill?

Yes, you can cook a Butterball turkey on a grill using indirect heat. Follow the same temperature guidelines and use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

10. Can I let the turkey rest for longer than 20 minutes?

Yes, you can extend the resting time up to 30 minutes without affecting the overall quality of the turkey.

11. Can I cook a Butterball turkey breast-side-down?

It’s generally recommended to cook the turkey breast-side-up to allow the breast meat to self-baste. However, some cooks prefer cooking breast-side-down for a juicier breast.

12. Can I use a convection oven to cook the turkey?

Yes, you can use a convection oven to cook the turkey. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and adjust cooking times accordingly.