When you pull that 20-pound beast out of the oven, let it rest. I beg you. If you carve immediately, all the juices run out onto the cutting board. Then you’re left with turkey jerky. Resting is non-negotiable.
Set a timer. 20 minutes minimum. Go make gravy. Open a bottle of wine. Try not to eat the skin off the turkey while it rests—I know you’re tempted. You’re not a monster, but you’re also hungry.
Finally, carve with a sharp knife. Dull knives crush the meat and make you cry. A sharp knife makes clean slices and earns you applause. You can do this. You just baked a 20-pound turkey at 325°F. You’re basically a hero now. Probably a tired one. But still.
So go on, friend. Fire up that oven, take a deep breath, and remember: it’s just a big chicken. You’ve got this. And if it’s a little overdone? That’s what gravy is for.