A turntable apparatus is provided for use in a microwave oven which includes a turntable driving motor, turntable drive mechanism connected to the turntable driving motor, an oven door, and a door switch. The subject apparatus is comprised of a turntable unit which is mechanically connected to the turntable drive gearing. The turntable unit includes a plurality of article sensors which suitably may be weight sensors, photo-sensors, or the like. A turntable control microprocessor is electrically connected to the turntable driving motor, to the plurality of sensors, and to the door switch. By receiving signals from the sensors and from the door switch, and by sending signals to the turntable driving motor to rotate the turntable unit, the turntable control microprocessor is adapted to automatically adjusts the position of the turntable unit (and a sensed food container placed thereon) with respect to the oven door such that the food container is proximal to the oven door when the oven door is open.