Marianne Martinez
Air fryers are a great alternative to ovens for cooking turkeys, especially for Thanksgiving. They are faster, safer, and healthier, and free up oven space for cooking other dishes. While some air fryers can only cook turkey breasts, others can fit a whole turkey. For example, the Masterbuilt 10 Liter XL Electric Fryer can cook a 20-pound turkey, while the Ninja Foodi Air Fryer can cook a 7-pound turkey breast. The Instant Vortex Slim 6 Qt. Air Fryer and COSORI dual basket air fryer are other options that can fit a whole bird.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Air Fryer Capacity | 10-liter capacity or more |
| Air Fryer Brands | Ninja, Cuisinart, Breville, Cosori, Char-Broil, Masterbuilt |
| Air Fryer Functions | Rotisserie, multicookers, drawers, convection oven |
| Turkey Weight | 10 lbs or more |
| Turkey Preparation | Thawed, no brining, no basting |
| Turkey Cooking Temperature | 350 degrees Fahrenheit |
| Turkey Cooking Time | 8-10 minutes per pound, or until internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit |
| Turkey Serving Size | Serves 10 people |
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What You'll Learn
Air fryer capacity
Some smaller air fryers are designed for cooking turkey breasts or smaller cuts of meat, and may not have the space needed for a whole turkey. For instance, the Ninja Foodi Air Fryer Turkey Breast is designed for a 7-pound turkey breast, and the Gourmia Fry 'N Fold air fryer is a 7-quart model. These smaller air fryers may be more suitable for cooking sides or smaller dishes, like bacon-wrapped chicken or steak.
On the other hand, larger air fryers with greater capacity can fit larger turkeys. For example, the Masterbuilt 10 Liter XL Electric Fryer can cook a whole turkey of up to 20 pounds. This is a large-capacity outdoor air fryer, which provides ample space for larger birds. Similarly, the Char-Broil gas turkey air fryer is another option for cooking a 20-pound turkey.
When selecting an air fryer for cooking a 10-pound turkey, it is important to consider the size and weight of the bird, as well as any accessories or additions that may take up extra space in the air fryer. Checking the capacity specifications of the air fryer and ensuring it can accommodate a whole turkey is crucial before making a purchase decision.
Additionally, it is worth noting that some air fryers have features that can impact their effective capacity. For example, some air fryers have drawers, rotisserie options, or multicooker functions, which can influence the size and type of turkey they can handle. When in doubt, it is always a good idea to opt for a larger capacity air fryer to ensure it can accommodate your desired turkey size.
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Air fryer temperature
When using an air fryer, it is essential to preheat the appliance. Depending on the climate, the preheating time can range from 10 to 15 minutes. For colder climates, a longer preheating time of around 15 minutes is recommended.
The cooking time for a 10-pound turkey in an air fryer will vary depending on factors such as the outside temperature and weather conditions. As a general rule of thumb, it is recommended to cook the turkey for 8 to 10 minutes per pound. For example, a 15-pound turkey cooked at 350 degrees Fahrenheit in an outdoor air fryer on a 65-70 degree day took just over 2 hours to reach the desired internal temperature.
It is important to monitor the internal temperature of the turkey to ensure it is cooked thoroughly. The recommended internal temperature for a whole turkey is 165 degrees Fahrenheit, which can be measured using a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh. It is worth noting that the internal temperature of the turkey should reach 180 degrees Fahrenheit in the thigh or 170 degrees Fahrenheit in the breast to ensure it is fully cooked.
Additionally, it is crucial to thaw the turkey before placing it in the air fryer. A frozen turkey may result in dry meat and significantly increase the cooking time. Once the turkey is thawed, it is good practice to remove the neck and giblets. Applying butter or oil under the skin will help ensure a moist and juicy turkey with crispy skin.
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Turkey preparation
Firstly, it is important to note that you should not use a frozen turkey; make sure to thaw it out. This can take a few days, so plan ahead and put your turkey in the fridge a couple of days before you plan to cook it. Once the turkey is thawed, remove the neck and giblets.
If you are going to cook the turkey in a deep fryer, ensure it is safe and clean, following all safety precautions. It is recommended to cook outdoors and away from buildings.
When you are ready to cook, set the air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and allow it to preheat for about 10 minutes (or 15 minutes if it is colder). Tuck in the wings and drumsticks, and place the turkey in the basket breast side up. You can add butter under the skin to ensure a moist and juicy turkey.
The rule of thumb for cooking time is about 8-10 minutes per pound, but this will vary depending on the size of the turkey, the outside temperature, and if it is windy. It may take longer in winter or colder climates. You can use a meat thermometer to check when the turkey is done; it should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit in the thickest part of the thigh.
Once cooked, lift the basket with caution (it will be very heavy) and bring the turkey inside. Let the turkey rest for at least 15 minutes before carving and serving. If you want to use the drippings for gravy, remove the tray with the collected drippings from the fryer.
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Cooking time
The cooking time for a 10-pound turkey in an air fryer will depend on several factors, including the desired level of doneness, the outside temperature, and wind conditions. It is important to note that a 10-pound turkey may not fit in all air fryers, so it is crucial to check the capacity of your air fryer before attempting to cook a turkey of this size.
As a general rule of thumb, it is recommended to cook a turkey in an air fryer for about 8 to 10 minutes per pound. This means that a 10-pound turkey would require approximately 80 to 100 minutes (1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 40 minutes) of cooking time. However, it is important to keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the external temperature and wind conditions. For example, if you are cooking in a cold and windy environment, it may take longer to reach the desired internal temperature.
To ensure that your turkey is cooked to perfection, it is recommended to use a meat thermometer to check its internal temperature. A turkey is typically considered done when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit in the thickest part of the thigh or 170 degrees Fahrenheit in the breast. If you prefer your turkey well done, you can aim for an internal temperature of 180 degrees Fahrenheit in the thigh.
Additionally, it is important to note that the cooking time may also depend on the specific model and settings of your air fryer. Different air fryers may have varying power levels and cooking capabilities, which can affect the overall cooking time. Therefore, it is always a good idea to refer to the manufacturer's instructions or guidelines for your specific air fryer model to ensure optimal cooking results.
When cooking a 10-pound turkey in an air fryer, it is crucial to allow for sufficient preheating and cooking time to ensure even cooking and desired doneness. By following the recommended cooking times, using a meat thermometer, and considering external factors such as temperature and wind, you can achieve a juicy and delicious air-fried turkey.
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Safety precautions
Cooking a 10-pound turkey in an air fryer is a relatively safe and easy process. Here are some safety precautions to follow when using an air fryer to cook a 10-pound turkey:
Pre-Cooking Precautions:
Before you begin cooking, it is important to take certain precautions to ensure a safe cooking experience. Firstly, make sure your air fryer is designed to accommodate a whole turkey. Some indoor tabletop air fryers may only be suitable for cooking turkey breasts. Check the capacity and ensure it can fit a whole 10-pound turkey. Additionally, always start with a thawed turkey. Frozen turkeys can lead to dry meat and longer cooking times. Allow sufficient time for the turkey to thaw properly before cooking.
Protective Gear:
When operating the air fryer, it is crucial to wear protective cooking gear. Goggles will shield your eyes from any potential splatters or grease, while oven mitts will protect your hands and arms from the heat. Keep protective equipment, such as a grease-rated fire extinguisher, within reach in case of any fire-related incidents.
Cooking Environment:
Choose a safe cooking environment, preferably outdoors and away from your house, other buildings, wooden structures, trees, and garages. Avoid operating the air fryer in the rain or snow, and ensure it is placed on a level surface. Keep children and pets away from the fryer at all times.
Cooking Oil Precautions:
If your air fryer uses cooking oil, follow the manufacturer's instructions to avoid overfilling. Continuously monitor the oil temperature to prevent it from exceeding its smoke point, as this can catch fire. If you notice the oil smoking, immediately turn off the fryer. Never use water or a hose on a fire related to the air fryer, as it can cause grease/oil to spread.
Cooking Process:
Always follow the recommended cooking times and temperatures. For a 10-pound turkey, cook it for approximately 8-10 minutes per pound. The internal temperature of the turkey should reach 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh. Use a meat thermometer to monitor this.
Post-Cooking Precautions:
After cooking, turn off the burner and carefully remove the pot. Place it on a level surface, cover it, and let the oil cool completely before disposing of it. Allow the air fryer to cool down entirely before moving it.
By following these safety precautions, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable cooking experience when using an air fryer to cook a 10-pound turkey.
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Frequently asked questions
The Masterbuilt Outdoor Air Fryer can cook a 12-16 pound whole turkey. The Masterbuilt 10 Liter XL Electric Fryer can cook a 20-pound turkey.
It takes about 80-100 minutes to cook a 10-pound turkey in an air fryer.
Set the temperature to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh. When the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit, your turkey is cooked.
Make sure the turkey is completely thawed. Remove the neck and giblets. Tuck in the wings and drumsticks, and place the turkey breast-side up in the basket.
