How to Cook a Perfectly Spatchcocked Turkey (13 lbs) in 3 Hours

ByMike Thompson Turkey Recipe

How Long to Cook a 13-lb Spatchcocked Turkey

Spatchcocking is a cooking method that involves removing the backbone of a turkey and flattening it out, which allows it to cook more evenly and quickly. This method is ideal for large turkeys, as it can reduce cooking time by up to 50%.

If you’re planning on spatchcocking a 13-lb turkey, here are a few tips to help you get the best results:

* Start by brining the turkey. This will help to keep the meat moist and flavorful.
* Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
* Place the turkey breast-side up on a roasting rack in a roasting pan.
* Rub the turkey with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices.
* Roast the turkey for 1 hour per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
* Let the turkey rest for at least 15 minutes before carving.

With these tips, you’ll be able to cook a perfectly spatchcocked turkey that your family and friends will love.

Temperature Time Notes
325 degrees F 2-2.5 hours For a juicy, flavorful turkey
350 degrees F 1.5-2 hours For a more browned turkey
400 degrees F 1-1.5 hours For a faster-cooking turkey

Choosing the Right Turkey

When choosing a turkey for your Thanksgiving feast, there are a few factors to consider.

Size and weight

The size of your turkey will depend on the number of people you are serving. A general rule of thumb is to allow 1 pound of turkey per person. However, if you have a lot of big eaters, you may want to plan on a little more.

For a 13-pound turkey, you can expect to serve about 10-12 people.

Fresh vs. frozen

Fresh turkeys are available in the weeks leading up to Thanksgiving. They are typically more expensive than frozen turkeys, but they also have a better flavor. If you have the time, I recommend buying a fresh turkey.

Frozen turkeys are a good option if you are short on time. They are typically less expensive than fresh turkeys, and they can be thawed in the refrigerator in a few days.

Brining or not brining

Brining is a process of soaking a turkey in a saltwater solution before cooking. This helps to keep the turkey moist and flavorful. If you have the time, I recommend brining your turkey. However, it is not necessary if you are short on time.

Preparing the Turkey

Once you have chosen your turkey, it is time to prepare it for cooking.

Spatchcocking the turkey

Spatchcocking is a method of cutting a turkey open so that it lays flat. This allows the turkey to cook more evenly and quickly. To spatchcock a turkey, you will need a sharp knife and a cutting board.

1. First, remove the giblets from the turkey.
2. Place the turkey breast-side up on a cutting board.
3. Using a sharp knife, cut along both sides of the backbone.
4. Remove the backbone and discard.
5. Flip the turkey over so that it is breast-side down.
6. Press down on the breastbone to flatten the turkey.

Seasoning the turkey

Once the turkey is spatchcocked, it is time to season it. You can use any seasonings you like, but some popular choices include salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.

To season the turkey, simply rub the seasonings all over the skin. You can also stuff the turkey with your favorite stuffing.

Stuffing the turkey (optional)

Stuffing a turkey is a traditional way to cook it. However, it is important to note that stuffing can be a source of foodborne illness. To avoid this, it is important to cook the stuffing to a safe internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

If you choose to stuff your turkey, be sure to do so the day before you plan to cook it. This will allow the stuffing to have time to cool completely before it is added to the turkey.

Cooking the Turkey

Now that your turkey is prepared, it is time to cook it.

Oven roasting

The most common way to cook a turkey is to roast it in the oven. To roast a turkey in the oven, you will need a roasting pan, a meat thermometer, and a baking rack.

1. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Place the turkey breast-side up on a roasting rack in a roasting pan.
3. Add 1 cup of water to the bottom of the roasting pan.
4. Cover the turkey with aluminum foil.
5. Roast the turkey for 1 hour per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
6. Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before carving.

Deep frying

Deep frying a turkey is a quick and easy way to cook it. To deep fry a turkey, you will need a deep fryer, a turkey fryer basket, and a meat thermometer.

1. Fill the deep fryer with oil to the recommended level.
2. Preheat the oil to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
3. Place the turkey breast-side up in the turkey fryer basket.
4. Lower the turkey into the oil and fry for 3-4 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
5. Remove the turkey from the fryer and let it rest for 15 minutes before carving.

Grilling

Grilling a turkey is a great way to add flavor to it. To grill a turkey, you will need a grill, a meat thermometer, and a roasting pan.

1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. Place the turkey breast-side up on a roasting pan

3. Cooking the Turkey

Oven temperature and cooking time

The best oven temperature for cooking a spatchcocked turkey is 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This will allow the turkey to cook evenly and prevent the skin from burning.

The cooking time for a spatchcocked turkey will vary depending on the size of the turkey. A general rule of thumb is to cook a spatchcocked turkey for 15 minutes per pound. So, a 13-pound turkey will take about 2 hours and 15 minutes to cook.

However, it is important to check the internal temperature of the turkey to make sure that it is cooked through. The internal temperature of the turkey should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Resting the turkey

After the turkey is cooked, it is important to let it rest for at least 30 minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the turkey, resulting in a more flavorful and juicy bird.

4. Carving the Turkey

How to carve a spatchcocked turkey

Carving a spatchcocked turkey is a relatively simple process. To begin, remove the turkey from the oven and place it on a cutting board.

Next, use a sharp knife to cut along the backbone of the turkey. Be careful not to cut through the breast meat.

Once the backbone is removed, you can open the turkey up like a book.

Now you can begin carving the turkey. Start by cutting off the wings. Then, cut along the breastbone to remove the breast meat.

Finally, cut the thighs and drumsticks from the turkey.

Tips for serving and storing leftover turkey

Once you have carved the turkey, you can serve it immediately or store it for later. If you are storing the turkey, be sure to let it cool completely before wrapping it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

The turkey can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

When you are ready to reheat the turkey, you can either thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or in the microwave.

To reheat the turkey in the oven, preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the turkey in a baking dish and cover it with foil. Bake the turkey for 15 minutes per pound, or until it is heated through.

To reheat the turkey in the microwave, place the turkey in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with plastic wrap. Microwave the turkey on high for 3-5 minutes per pound, or until it is heated through.

Spatchcocking a turkey is a great way to cook a turkey evenly and quickly. It is also a great way to show off the beautiful presentation of a whole turkey.

If you are looking for a delicious and easy way to cook a turkey, spatchcocking is the way to go.

How long does it take to cook a 13 lb spatchcocked turkey?

A 13 lb spatchcocked turkey will take approximately 3 hours to cook at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

What is the best way to spatchcock a turkey?

To spatchcock a turkey, first remove the giblets from the cavity. Then, using a sharp knife, cut along both sides of the backbone, being careful not to cut through the skin. Flip the turkey over and press down on the breastbone to flatten it out.

What temperature should I cook a spatchcocked turkey to?

The internal temperature of a spatchcocked turkey should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

How do I know when a spatchcocked turkey is done cooking?

You can check if a spatchcocked turkey is done cooking by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh. The internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

What are some tips for cooking a spatchcocked turkey?

Here are a few tips for cooking a spatchcocked turkey:

* Start the turkey at room temperature. This will help it cook evenly.
* Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The turkey is done cooking when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
* Don’t overcook the turkey. Overcooked turkey is dry and tough.
* Let the turkey rest before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and the meat to be more tender.

What are some side dishes that go well with spatchcocked turkey?

Here are a few side dishes that go well with spatchcocked turkey:

* Mashed potatoes
* Stuffing
* Cranberry sauce
* Green bean casserole
* Roasted vegetables

How do I store leftover spatchcocked turkey?

Leftover spatchcocked turkey can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

How do I reheat spatchcocked turkey?

To reheat spatchcocked turkey, you can either reheat it in the oven or in the microwave.

* To reheat in the oven, preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the turkey on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
* To reheat in the microwave, place the turkey on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.

Spatchcocking a turkey is a great way to cook a large bird evenly and quickly. By removing the backbone and flattening the turkey, you expose more surface area to the heat, which helps the turkey cook faster. The cooking time for a 13-pound spatchcocked turkey will vary depending on the temperature of your oven, but it will typically take between 2 1/2 and 3 hours.

To spatchcock a turkey, you will need a sharp knife, kitchen shears, and a cutting board. First, remove the giblets from the turkey cavity. Then, place the turkey breast-side up on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, cut along both sides of the backbone, being careful not to cut through the skin. Remove the backbone and discard. Flip the turkey over and press down on the breastbone to flatten the bird.

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Brush the turkey with oil and season with salt and pepper. Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a roasting pan and roast for 2 1/2 to 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Let the turkey rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.

Spatchcocking a turkey is a great way to impress your guests at Thanksgiving or any other holiday. It is a simple and straightforward technique that results in a juicy, flavorful turkey that is cooked to perfection.

Author Profile

Mike Thompson
Mike Thompson
Hello, fellow turkey enthusiasts! I'm Mike Thompson, a proud resident of the picturesque state of Missouri, renowned for its thriving turkey population and favorable hunting conditions. For over a decade, I've roamed the woods, valleys, and peaks of our beautiful state, learning every nook, cranny, and secret that turkey hunting has to offer. My track record? Well, let's just say I've bagged more turkeys than there are days in November, and each hunt has added a story to my ever-growing book of experiences.

However, as much as I love the thrill of the hunt, what truly fuels my passion is the joy of sharing my knowledge with others. That's why I created this platform. This site is not just a testament to my journey but a beacon for all those who are looking to embark on their own turkey hunting adventures. Whether you're a beginner eager to get started or a seasoned pro seeking advanced tips, you'll find a wealth of information here.

From understanding turkey behavior, tracking techniques, and the best equipment to use, to the do's and don'ts of turkey hunting, this site is a comprehensive guide to all things turkey. So, strap on your boots, pick up your gear, and let's embark on a journey together into the world of turkey hunting. Welcome to my site, and happy hunting!