Can You Let A Turkey Rest Too Long? Avoid This Common Thanksgiving Mistake!

How long should you let a turkey rest before serving it for a delicious and safe dining experience? Once your turkey is fully cooked and has cooled to room temperature, it’s crucial to handle it properly to ensure both flavor and food safety. The recommended practice is to refrigerate the turkey promptly, storing it at a safe temperature of 40 degrees Fahrenheit (4 degrees Celsius). Alternatively, you can opt to serve the turkey within two hours of removing it from the oven to prevent the risk of foodborne illnesses. To enjoy hot, juicy meat, plan for the turkey to be ready about 15 to 20 minutes before your feast begins. This information is relevant as of November 18, 2022.

Is it safe to let a turkey sit for an hour after it reaches a temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit or slightly lower? The resting time for a turkey post-cooking varies based on the bird’s size. A minimum of 20 minutes is recommended for smaller turkeys, while larger ones may benefit from resting for up to 40 minutes or more. The specific resting duration can also be influenced by the room temperature in which the turkey is placed. This information can help ensure your Thanksgiving turkey is perfectly cooked and ready to be enjoyed. (Note: The date reference “24th November 2011” appears to be unrelated and is omitted in this revised paragraph.)