Thanksgiving Prep Guide: Master the Perfect Turkey with Your Instant Pot
By Rossi Voss | November 6, 2024 | Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 35 mins | Serves: 6–8 | Cost: $2.80–$3.50/serving
With Thanksgiving just weeks away, it's time to start planning your centerpiece dish. If the thought of cooking a perfect turkey makes you nervous, I'm here to show you how your Instant Pot can deliver the most moist, flavorful turkey you've ever served — with minimal stress!
Why Use an Instant Pot for Thanksgiving Turkey?
Traditional oven roasting can be unpredictable, but your Instant Pot offers:
- Perfect moisture retention thanks to pressurized cooking
- Significantly faster cooking times (a whole turkey in under an hour!)
- Frees up oven space for all your side dishes
- Consistent results every time
Your Thanksgiving Timeline
- November 6–12: Plan your menu and test recipes. Practice with a smaller turkey breast if you're new to Instant Pot turkey cooking.
- November 13–19: Source your turkey. For Instant Pot cooking, aim for a 6–8 lb bird that will fit in your pot.
- November 20: Begin thawing your turkey in the refrigerator if frozen. Allow 24 hours for every 4–5 pounds.
- November 21: Prepare any make-ahead side dishes and brines.
- Thanksgiving Day: Cook your turkey in the Instant Pot (plan for about 60–90 minutes total time including pressure building and release).
The Perfect Instant Pot Thanksgiving Turkey
Serves: 6–8 | Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 35 mins
- 1 whole turkey (6–7 lbs), fresh or thoroughly thawed
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 1 tbsp salt
- 2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp dried thyme
- 1 tbsp dried rosemary
- 1 tbsp dried sage
- 1 onion, quartered
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1 lemon, quartered
- 1 cup chicken or turkey broth
- Remove giblets and neck from turkey cavity. Pat turkey dry with paper towels.
- Combine salt, pepper, and herbs. Rub turkey inside and out with oil, then with herb mixture.
- Place onion, garlic, and lemon in the turkey cavity.
- Pour broth into Instant Pot. Place turkey on trivet, breast-side up.
- Secure lid and set to High Pressure for 30 minutes (for 6 lb turkey).
- When cooking completes, allow natural pressure release for 15 minutes, then quick release remaining pressure.
- Check internal temperature in the thickest part of the thigh — it should read 165°F.
- For crispy skin, transfer turkey to baking sheet and broil for 3–5 minutes until golden.
- Let rest for 15 minutes before carving.
Pro Tip: Make Gravy from the Cooking Liquid
Don't discard the flavorful liquid left in your Instant Pot! Strain it, then thicken with a cornstarch slurry (2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with ¼ cup water) for delicious homemade gravy.
Traditional vs. Instant Pot Turkey Comparison
| Feature | Traditional Oven Roasting | Instant Pot Method |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking Time | 3–4 hours | 30–40 minutes |
| Oven Space | Occupied all day | Frees up for sides |
| Moisture | Risk of dry meat | Consistently moist |
| Evenness | Uneven cooking common | Even throughout |
| Attention Needed | Frequent basting | Set it and forget it |
Thanksgiving Side Dishes in Your Instant Pot
Your Instant Pot isn't just for the turkey! Here's what else you can prepare:
- Mashed potatoes — 10 minutes pressure time
- Stuffing — 10 minutes pressure time
- Cranberry sauce — 5 minutes pressure time
- Green bean casserole — 5 minutes pressure time
- Sweet potatoes — 12 minutes pressure time
Thanksgiving Turkey FAQ
What size turkey fits in an Instant Pot?
Most 6–8 quart Instant Pots can accommodate a 6–8 pound turkey. If cooking for a larger crowd, consider cooking two smaller turkeys or supplementing with an additional turkey breast.
Can I cook a frozen turkey in the Instant Pot?
While possible, I don't recommend it for Thanksgiving. Thawing ensures even cooking and better texture. Always thaw safely in the refrigerator.
How do I get crispy skin?
After pressure cooking, transfer the turkey to a baking sheet and broil for 3–5 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy.
Can I make gravy from the cooking liquid?
Absolutely! The cooking liquid is packed with flavor. Strain it, then thicken with cornstarch or flour for delicious gravy.
Need More Thanksgiving Inspiration?
Get 100+ delicious turkey recipes in my bestselling cookbook!
Instant Pot Turkey Recipes ($0.99 Kindle) Paperback Version ($7.99)
Also check out: 100 Unique Turkey Recipes and 120 Air Fryer Turkey Breast Recipes
Final Tip: Don't Stress!
Thanksgiving is about gratitude and togetherness, not perfection. Even if something doesn't turn out exactly as planned, your guests will appreciate the effort and love you put into the meal.
Share your Thanksgiving creations with #InstantPotThanksgiving and tag @RossiVossCooking!
We'd love to see how your holiday turkey turns out!
About Rossi Voss: A cookbook author and culinary educator with over 20 years of professional experience, Rossi specializes in demystifying complex restaurant techniques for the home cook. After training in French and Italian kitchens, Rossi now focuses on teaching through bestselling cookbooks and cooking classes that emphasize both the science and soul of cooking.