Any turkey experts?

LuvMyFurbaby

My family has requested that I make the Cider-Brined-and-Glazed turkey that I made for Thanksgiving last year.

BUT - instead of the 8 people I had for dinner last year, this year there will only be four of us.

The recipe calls for a 20-pound turkey. I'll only need 12 pounds at most, unless I want turkey leftovers until Christmas (and no, my guests won't take any leftovers home).

So, if the 20-lb turkey is supposed to roast for 4 hours (per the recipe), how long would I roast the 12-pounder? (I know it's supposed to reach 175 degrees, but I'd like to know how long that will take, so I can make sure my side dishes will be ready at the time)

Brownee79

Check out some cook books. Some of them say how long to cook a turkey per pounds. Sorry I don't know off the top of my head.

zelda25

I have it in my head that it's usually about 15 min/lb, but ditto PP--it will be on the turkey package or in a cookbook.  Or here: http://allrecipes.com/HowTo/How-to-Cook-a-Turkey/Detail.aspx

maryandkirk0909

I recently cooked a 5lb turkey breast and would say it took closer to 25-30 min/lb.

This time will be lessened because not all of your turkey will be as dense as the breast, so I'd say 15-20/lb would be an excellent estimate.

thom2022

call the Jennie-O Turkey cooking hotline

(800) 887-5397

I believe this is the right number - if not, just google it. Good luck!

doctorwho

I have no helpful information but am here to demand your brine recipe. 

LuvMyFurbaby

Thanks everybody! I'll check out the AllRecipes link.

Doctorwho, here is the recipe I use:

Cider-Brined and Glazed Turkey from Epicurious.com