Microwave Turkey
Unlock the secret to a perfectly moist and flavorful turkey with this innovative Microwave Turkey recipe, designed for busy cooks who need a hassle-free alternative to traditional roasting. Perfectly suited for a smaller bird (8-10 pounds), this quick and easy method uses the convenience of your microwave to deliver tender, juicy results in just 90 minutes of cooking time. Infused with a rich, seasoned butter mix of garlic, paprika, and herbs, and stuffed with fresh lemon slices and fragrant rosemary or thyme, this turkey bursts with savory goodness in every bite. The step-by-step instructions ensure even cooking, while the microwave-safe preparation makes cleanup a breeze. Whether you're short on time or just looking for a creative way to simplify your holiday feast, this recipe is the ultimate timesaver without compromising on taste. Perfect for small gatherings or weeknight indulgence, this microwave turkey is sure to amaze your dinner table!
Log this recipe in SnapCalorie
Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 whole Turkey (smaller variety, roughly 8-10 pounds)
- 4 tablespoons Butter (unsalted)
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 0.5 teaspoons Black pepper
- 1 whole Lemon (sliced)
- 1 handful Fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, or sage)
- 1 roll Cooking twine
Instructions
Thaw the turkey completely in the refrigerator if it is frozen. Ensure the turkey fits in your microwave and remove any metal clips, giblets, and the neck from the cavity.
Pat the turkey dry inside and out with paper towels.
In a small bowl, mix the butter, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to make a seasoned butter paste.
Gently loosen the skin of the turkey using your fingers and spread the seasoned butter paste evenly underneath the skin and over the outer surface of the turkey.
Stuff the cavity of the turkey with lemon slices and fresh herbs, then tie the legs together with cooking twine to ensure even cooking.
Place the turkey breast-side down in a large, microwave-safe dish with high sides. Cover the dish loosely with microwave-safe plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape.
Microwave the turkey at 50% power for 10 minutes per pound. For an 8-pound turkey, cook for approximately 80 minutes initially.
After the first round of cooking, carefully turn the turkey breast-side up using oven mitts or tongs and return it to the microwave. Continue cooking at 50% power for an additional 10 minutes per pound, about 80 more minutes for an 8-pound turkey.
Check the turkey for doneness using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast and 175°F (79°C) in the thigh.
Once fully cooked, let the turkey rest, covered, for 15 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
Carve the turkey and serve with your favorite sides. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1043 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 71.1 g | 91% | |
| Saturated Fat | 36.6 g | 183% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 351 mg | 117% | |
| Sodium | 2618 mg | 114% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 18.9 g | 7% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 7.6 g | 27% | |
| Total Sugars | 1.9 g | ||
| Protein | 81.0 g | 162% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.7 mcg | 4% | |
| Calcium | 596 mg | 46% | |
| Iron | 12.7 mg | 71% | |
| Potassium | 1304 mg | 28% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
