How Long Does It Take to Cook a Turkey for Medium Rare?
Equipment
- Roasting pan with rack
- Meat thermometer
- Basting brush or spoon
- Aluminum foil
Ingredients
- 1 turkey (10-12 pounds)
- Oil or butter
- Salt and pepper
- Herbs and spices (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325F
- Remove the turkey from its packaging and rinse it under cold water. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels.
- Rub the turkey with oil or butter and season it with salt, pepper, and other desired herbs and spices.
- Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a roasting pan, breast-side up.
- Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the turkey breast without touching the bone.
- Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for about 2 to 2.5 hours or until the thermometer registers 135F (57C)
- Remove the turkey from the oven and cover it with foil. Let it rest for about 20 minutes.
- Increase the oven temperature to 450F(232C)
- Remove the foil from the turkey and return it to the oven. Roast the turkey for 10 to 15 minutes or until the thermometer registers 145F (63C).
- Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes before carving.
Notes
It is important to note that consuming undercooked poultry can pose health risks. The USDA recommends cooking turkey to an internal temperature of 165F (74C) as measured with a food thermometer in the thickest part of the bird. Since you have chosen to prepare your turkey medium rare, monitor the cooking time and temperature closely to ensure it is safe to eat.