[Full Guide] How Long To Cook Turkey In Instant Pot?

The Instant Pot has revolutionized the way we cook, making it possible to prepare meals quickly and easily. Cooking a turkey in an Instant Pot may seem unconventional, but it can be a convenient and efficient method, especially for those looking to save time and space. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the process of cooking a turkey in an Instant Pot, covering everything from selection and preparation to cooking times and troubleshooting tips.

Quick Answer: How Long To Cook Turkey In Instant Pot

Cooking a turkey in an Instant Pot requires careful planning and precise timing. The cooking time will vary depending on the size of the turkey and the specific model of the Instant Pot being used. However, as a general rule of thumb, it takes approximately 6-8 minutes per pound to cook a turkey in an Instant Pot on high pressure.

Selection

When choosing a turkey for cooking in an Instant Pot, it’s important to consider the size and shape of the bird. For the best results, opt for a turkey that fits comfortably within the Instant Pot, allowing for proper heat distribution and thorough cooking. Additionally, ensure that the turkey is fully thawed before cooking, as attempting to cook a frozen turkey in an Instant Pot can lead to uneven cooking and potentially unsafe results.

Preparation

Before cooking the turkey in an Instant Pot, proper preparation is key to achieving delicious and tender results. Start by patting the turkey dry with paper towels and seasoning it to your preference. This can include a mix of herbs, spices, and aromatics, such as garlic, onions, and citrus fruits, to infuse the meat with flavor.

Instant Pot Cooking Times For Turkey

The cooking time for a turkey in an Instant Pot will vary based on the size of the bird and the specific model of the Instant Pot being used. Use the following general guidelines for cooking times:

• Small Turkey (4-6 pounds): 24-32 minutes on high pressure
• Medium Turkey (6-8 pounds): 32-48 minutes on high pressure
• Large Turkey (8-12 pounds): 48-72 minutes on high pressure

These guidelines are based on cooking the turkey on high pressure. However, it’s important to note that the actual cooking time may vary based on the specific model of the Instant Pot, as well as the desired level of doneness for the turkey.

How To Cook Turkey In Instant Pot

Step 1: Seasoning

Begin by seasoning the turkey with your desired blend of herbs, spices, and aromatics. This can include a mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and any other herbs or spices you prefer. For added flavor, consider placing sliced onions, garlic, and citrus fruits inside the cavity of the turkey.

Step 2: Trivet Placement

Place the trivet inside the Instant Pot and add 1-2 cups of liquid, such as chicken broth or water. The trivet will elevate the turkey, allowing it to cook evenly and preventing it from sitting in the cooking liquid.

Step 3: Turkey Placement

Carefully place the seasoned turkey on the trivet, ensuring that it fits comfortably without touching the sides of the Instant Pot.

Step 4: Cooking

Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the vent to the sealing position. Select the high-pressure setting and adjust the cooking time based on the size of the turkey, using the guidelines provided earlier in the article. Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow for natural pressure release for 10-15 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure.

Step 5: Checking Doneness

After the pressure has been released, carefully open the Instant Pot and use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey. The turkey is considered safe to eat when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast and 175°F (79°C) in the thigh. If the turkey has not reached the recommended temperature, return it to the Instant Pot for additional cooking time.

Step 6: Resting

Once the turkey has reached the desired temperature, carefully transfer it to a cutting board and allow it to rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a moist and flavorful turkey.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Cooking a turkey in an Instant Pot can be a straightforward process, but it’s not without its potential challenges. Here are some common issues that may arise and how to troubleshoot them:

Issue 1: Turkey Is Undercooked

If the turkey is undercooked after the initial cooking cycle, return it to the Instant Pot and add 5-10 minutes of additional cooking time on high pressure. Ensure that the Instant Pot is sealed properly and allow for natural pressure release before checking the internal temperature again.

Issue 2: Turkey Is Overcooked

Overcooking the turkey can lead to dry and tough meat. To prevent this, carefully monitor the cooking time and use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature throughout the cooking process.

Issue 3: Turkey Skin Is Not Crispy

Cooking a turkey in an Instant Pot will result in moist and tender meat, but it may not produce crispy skin. If crispy skin is desired, transfer the cooked turkey to a baking sheet and broil it in the oven for a few minutes to achieve a golden, crispy exterior.

Issue 4: Instant Pot Lid Won’t Seal

If the Instant Pot lid won’t seal properly, check to ensure that the sealing ring is properly in place and that there are no obstructions preventing a tight seal. Additionally, check that the sealing valve is in the correct position for sealing.

Issue 5: Turkey Is Too Large For The Instant Pot

If the turkey is too large to fit comfortably in the Instant Pot, consider using a different cooking method, such as roasting in the oven or using a larger cooking vessel that can accommodate the size of the turkey.

Cooking a turkey in an Instant Pot is a convenient and efficient way to prepare a flavorful and tender meal. By selecting the right turkey, properly preparing it, and following the recommended cooking times and troubleshooting tips, you can achieve excellent results. Whether you’re cooking a small turkey for a weeknight dinner or a larger bird for a holiday feast, the Instant Pot offers a versatile and time-saving cooking method for delicious turkey every time.

Instant Pot Cook Times For Frozen Turkey

Cooking a turkey can often be a daunting and time-consuming task, especially during busy holidays or events. Thankfully, the Instant Pot has revolutionized the cooking process by providing a quick and convenient way to prepare a turkey. The Instant Pot is a multi-functional pressure cooker that can significantly reduce the cooking time while still producing a succulent and flavorful turkey.

One of the most significant advantages of using an Instant Pot to cook a turkey is its ability to cook frozen meat without needing to thaw it first. This is a game-changer for those last-minute occasions when you forget to thaw the turkey in advance. The cook time for a frozen turkey in an Instant Pot will vary depending on its size and the Instant Pot model. Here is a general guideline for cooking a frozen turkey in an Instant Pot:

• For a 6-8 pound frozen turkey: Set the Instant Pot on high pressure and cook for approximately 70-75 minutes.
• For an 8-10 pound frozen turkey: Set the Instant Pot on high pressure and cook for about 75-80 minutes.
• For a 10-12 pound frozen turkey: Set the Instant Pot on high pressure and cook for around 80-85 minutes.
• For a 12-14 pound frozen turkey: Set the Instant Pot on high pressure and cook for roughly 85-90 minutes.

It’s important to note that these cook times are estimates, and the actual cooking time may vary depending on the specific circumstances and variations in turkey size. It’s always recommended to use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the meat.

Achieving Perfect Texture

The Instant Pot not only allows you to cook a turkey from frozen, but it also helps in achieving a perfectly tender and moist texture. The pressure cooking process helps to break down the collagen in the turkey, resulting in a tender and juicy meat. To achieve the best texture for your turkey, follow these tips:

1. Use a trivet: Placing the turkey on a trivet in the Instant Pot prevents it from sitting in the cooking liquid, which can result in the turkey becoming mushy.
2. Natural release: After the cooking cycle is complete, allow the Instant Pot to release pressure naturally for at least 10-15 minutes before manually releasing the remaining pressure. This helps to retain the moisture and tenderness of the turkey.
3. Rest the turkey: Once the cooking process is complete, allow the turkey to rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and juicy turkey.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your turkey is perfectly cooked and has a tender and moist texture that will impress your guests.

Flavor Infusion

Cooking a turkey in the Instant Pot not only saves time but also helps in infusing flavors into the meat. The sealed environment of the Instant Pot allows the flavors to penetrate deep into the turkey, resulting in a more flavorful end product. Here are a few tips to enhance the flavor of your Instant Pot turkey:

1. Season generously: Before cooking the turkey, make sure to season it well with your favorite herbs, spices, and seasonings. This will help to enhance the flavor of the meat.
2. Use liquid for flavor: Adding flavorful liquids such as broth, stock, or wine to the Instant Pot will not only help with the cooking process but also infuse additional flavors into the turkey.
3. Consider aromatics: Adding aromatics like onions, garlic, citrus fruits, or herbs to the cooking liquid can also enhance the overall flavor of the turkey.

By incorporating these flavor-infusing techniques, you can elevate the taste of your Instant Pot turkey and create a memorable culinary experience.

Other Instant Pot Cooking Methods For Turkey

While cooking a whole turkey in the Instant Pot is a popular method, there are other ways to utilize this versatile appliance to prepare turkey dishes:

1. Turkey Breast: If you prefer to cook only the turkey breast instead of the whole bird, it can be easily done in the Instant Pot. Simply season the turkey breast, place it on a trivet, add a cup of liquid (such as broth or stock), and cook on high pressure for around 6-8 minutes per pound.
2. Shredded Turkey: The Instant Pot is excellent for cooking turkey to be used in dishes like pulled turkey sandwiches or tacos. Cook the turkey thighs or drumsticks with your desired seasonings and a cup of liquid for about 25-30 minutes on high pressure. Once cooked, shred the meat using two forks.
3. Turkey Soup: After enjoying a delicious roasted turkey, don’t let the leftovers go to waste. Use the carcass to make a flavorful turkey soup in the Instant Pot. Add the carcass, vegetables, herbs, and water to the Instant Pot and cook on high pressure for around 30-40 minutes.

These alternative cooking methods offer versatility and provide you with options for utilizing different cuts of turkey in various dishes.

Instant Pot Tips For Turkey

When using an Instant Pot to cook a turkey, it’s essential to keep a few additional tips in mind to ensure the best results:

1. Size of the Instant Pot: Ensure that the turkey you are cooking will fit comfortably inside the Instant Pot without touching the sides. This leaves enough space for the turkey to cook evenly.
2. Browning the turkey: The Instant Pot excels at pressure cooking, but it may not provide the desired browning effect on the turkey’s skin. To achieve a golden brown skin, consider using other methods like broiling or air frying after the turkey is cooked in the Instant Pot.
3. Safety precautions: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety guidelines when using the Instant Pot. Be cautious when releasing the pressure manually, as hot steam can cause severe burns.
4. Clean the Instant Pot: After cooking the turkey, clean the Instant Pot thoroughly to remove any grease or residue. This ensures the longevity of the appliance and eliminates any unwanted odors from previous cooking sessions.

By following these tips, you can have a safe and successful cooking experience with your Instant Pot.

Creative Instant Pot Turkey Recipes And Variations

The Instant Pot offers endless possibilities for preparing turkey dishes. Here are a few creative recipes and variations to try:

1. Instant Pot Turkey Gravy: Use the drippings from cooking the turkey in the Instant Pot to make a flavorful and rich turkey gravy. Simply deglaze the Instant Pot with broth, add a roux, and season to taste.
2. Instant Pot Turkey Chili: Prepare a delicious and hearty turkey chili using ground turkey, beans, tomatoes, and spices in the Instant Pot. It’s a great way to use leftover turkey or freshly cooked shredded turkey.
3. Instant Pot Turkey Curry: Create a flavorful and aromatic turkey curry by cooking turkey pieces with a blend of spices, coconut milk, and vegetables in the Instant Pot. Serve it with rice or naan bread for a satisfying meal.
4. Instant Pot Turkey and Rice Casserole: Combine cooked turkey, rice, vegetables, and broth in the Instant Pot to create a comforting and filling casserole. It’s a fantastic way to use leftover turkey from a holiday feast.

Feel free to experiment with different flavors, spices, and ingredients to create your own unique Instant Pot turkey recipes.

Conclusion

The Instant Pot is a versatile and convenient tool for cooking turkey, whether it is a whole bird or specific cuts. With its ability to cook frozen turkey, achieve perfect texture, and infuse flavors, the Instant Pot simplifies the cooking process while still delivering delicious results. By following the recommended cook times, using the appropriate cooking methods, and utilizing the various tips provided, you can confidently cook a turkey in the Instant Pot and impress your family and guests with a flavorful and succulent poultry dish. So, go ahead and explore the endless possibilities of cooking turkey in the Instant Pot and elevate your culinary skills.

FAQS

Can You Cook A Whole Turkey In An Instant Pot?

Yes, you can cook a whole turkey in an instant pot, as long as it fits in the pot and you follow the proper cooking instructions.

How Long Does It Take To Cook A Turkey In An Instant Pot?

The cooking time for a turkey in an instant pot can vary depending on the size of the turkey. For a 6-pound turkey, the cooking time is approximately 20 minutes per pound, so a 6-pound turkey would take about 2 hours to cook.

Do I Need To Use A Trivet When Cooking A Turkey In An Instant Pot?

Yes, it is recommended to use a trivet when cooking a turkey in an instant pot. This will prevent the turkey from sticking to the bottom of the pot and allow for even cooking.

Should I Use The Pressure Cooking Function Or The Slow Cooking Function When Cooking A Turkey In An Instant Pot?

It is recommended to use the pressure cooking function when cooking a turkey in an instant pot. This will ensure that the turkey cooks quickly and retains its moisture and flavor.

How Do I Know When The Turkey Is Fully Cooked?

The turkey is considered fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This can be checked using a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the turkey, without touching the bone.