The USDA recommends cooking an unstuffed turkey at 325 °F or higher for roughly 20 minutes per pound. Stuffed turkeys require roughly two additional minutes per pound. Exact cooking time will vary depending on the cooking method, exact weight and preferred doneness. |
Turkey…check! Stuffing…check! Roasting pan…check! It’s time to make the tastiest feast for your loved ones to enjoy. But wait! How long should you cook your turkey to strike the perfect balance between delicious and food safety?
Use our turkey cooking time calculator to estimate roasting time based on your turkey’s weight, stuffing, and whether it’s thawed, then confirm it’s done when a thermometer reads at least 165°F.
Factors that affect the time it takes a turkey to cook
Turkey cooking time is generally calculated based on weight, stuffing and desired level of doneness. However, other factors like brining and whether the turkey is fully or partially thawed can also affect the total cook time.
Estimate how long your turkey will need to be in the oven based on your unique circumstances. All cooking times below are based on a 325°F oven.
Fully thawed vs. partially thawed
A fully thawed turkey generally takes about 12 to 18 minutes per pound to cook at 325°F, depending on its size. A partially frozen turkey usually takes 50% longer, so a turkey that would normally take 3 to 4 hours may need about 4½ to 6 hours.
Stuffed vs. unstuffed
A stuffed turkey generally takes about 15 to 20 minutes per pound to cook, while an unstuffed turkey takes about 12 to 18 minutes per pound at 325°F. The stuffing must also reach 165°F in the center before the turkey is ready to serve.
Bone-in vs. boneless
Bone-in turkey, like a whole bird or a bone-in breast, usually takes longer overall because it’s larger. Per pound, though, a smaller boneless turkey roast can take longer.
At 325°F, a 12- to 14-lb whole unstuffed turkey takes about 3 to 3¾ hours, and a 4- to 6-lb bone-in turkey breast takes about 1½ to 2¼ hours. For a boneless turkey roast, follow the package directions, since times vary by size and brand. Whatever the cut, it’s done when the thickest part reaches 165°F.
Brined vs. unbrined
A brined turkey generally cooks slightly faster than an unbrined turkey, though the total time needed varies by recipe and turkey size. Plan for roughly 12 to 18 minutes per pound for an unbrined turkey and about 12 to 17 minutes per pound for a brined turkey, then use a meat thermometer to confirm doneness.
How long to thaw a turkey by size
Defrosting or thawing a turkey will vary depending on size and method. You can defrost a turkey in a refrigerator or thaw a turkey in cold water. It is not recommended to use a microwave for thawing a turkey due to size and safety hazards.
Here are two recommended thawing methods.
Refrigerator thawing
If you have time, thaw in your refrigerator. For every 4 to 5 pounds of turkey, add an additional 24 hours to the thawing time.
When you thaw your turkey in the refrigerator, make sure to keep it in its original packaging. Add the wrapped turkey to a tray or pan to contain all juices that could potentially spill.
Cold water thawing
Folks who are looking for a fast way to thaw their turkey can choose the cold water method. Start by making sure your turkey is wrapped thoroughly to ensure no water can leak in.
Submerge your turkey in a bucket of cold water. Make sure to change the water every 30 minutes so it stays cold. Every pound of turkey requires 30 minutes of thawing in cold water.
Cook your turkey immediately after the cold water thawing method
How to tell if a turkey is cooked through
The most reliable way to tell if a turkey is done is to use a meat thermometer. The thickest part of the breast and the innermost part of the thigh and wing should all reach 165°F. For a stuffed turkey, the center of the stuffing should also reach 165°F.
Visual cues like a golden brown skin can help, too, but be sure to use a meat thermometer to confirm it’s safe to eat.
Turkey cooking tips and tricks
Preparing the perfect turkey takes time, skill, and patience (of course). Here are a few turkey cooking tips for a better bird:
Buy the right size turkey: Buying the biggest bird isn’t always the best option. Account for one pound of turkey per person for a whole turkey or half a pound for a boneless turkey breast. Leftovers are enjoyable, but too many can lead to waste.
Plan out your thawing process: Pick your thawing method in advance and factor this into your overall cooking time.
Try dry brining: Dry brining ensures you season the bird thoroughly. Don’t overcomplicate your turkey brine, a salt rub works, or create a fresh herb butter brine for a flavorful turkey.
Cook stuffing separately: There's no need to worry about overcooking your turkey by cooking your stuffing separately. Not only will your turkey cook faster, but your stuffing will come out perfect every time.
Add extra flavorings: Salt works, but rosemary, thyme, sage, or garlic can add even more flavor. You can even add a halved orange or lemon to bring even more aromatics to your turkey.
Turkey cooking supplies
When it comes to cooking a turkey, you need to have the proper supplies on hand. Here are a few turkey cooking supplies you may need to invest in.
Roasting pan and rack: You will need a large roasting pan to cook your turkey. Double-check the capacity of your roasting pan to ensure your turkey will fit comfortably. The roasting rack will help the heat circulate and cook the bird thoroughly.
Meat thermometer: Skip the guesswork and use a meat thermometer to measure the exact temperature of your turkey. Here's a quick how-to guide: Remove the turkey from the cooking method and stick the thermometer into the thigh. Make sure your bird reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Carving tools: Invest in a quality set of carving tools that includes a fork and knife for ultimate ease. Skip the hassle by cutting your bird with a knife designed for carving.
Baster: Not every recipe requires a baster, but it helps ensure the meat is tender and moist while adding more crispness to the skin. Large spoons are also an alternative to basters.
Cutting board: Invest in a cutting board that has grooves on the edges to catch all the liquid that escapes as you carve. Make sure the cutting board is large enough to cut your bird with ease.
How to safely freeze or refreeze a turkey
The USDA recommends thawing your turkey in the refrigerator and not freezing the meat if it has been left out at room temperature for more than two hours. Do not refreeze your meat after using the cold water method.
Here are a few tips to safely refreeze your cooked turkey.
Divide your turkey into small servings to save space in your freezer.
Use freezer bags to protect and wrap your turkey properly.
When you are ready to eat your leftover turkey, transfer it to the refrigerator and let it thaw for a day for every 4 to 5 pounds of meat, then reheat to 165°F before consuming.
Add a splash of gravy to your turkey to moisten the meat after you heat it up.
Turkey cooking time calculator FAQ
Still not sure how long to cook your turkey? This section will answer your most common questions about turkey cooking times, temperatures and methods.
Is it better to cook a turkey at 325° or 350°?
Cooking a turkey at 325°F is ideal for slower, more even cooking, which helps retain moisture. However, cooking at 350°F can result in a slightly crispier skin and faster cooking time.
How long does it take to cook a turkey per pound?
The general rule for cooking a turkey is 15 to 20 minutes per pound at 325°F. A cooking time calculator can help you get more precise results, factoring in your turkey's weight,whether it’s stuffed or unstuffed, and whether you're cooking at a different temperature.
Is it 15 or 20 minutes per pound for turkey?
Both can be correct! If you're cooking at 325°F, plan for around 15 to 20 minutes per pound, depending on whether your turkey is stuffed or unstuffed. For a stuffed bird, lean toward the higher end of the range, while unstuffed turkeys may cook faster at the lower end.
How long does it take to cook a 14.25-lb turkey?
At 325°F, a 14.25-lb turkey will typically take between 3 hours and 45 minutes to 4 hours and 45 minutes to cook, depending on whether it's stuffed. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F in the thickest part of the turkey for safety.
Final turkey cooking thoughts to baste in
There are many factors to consider when cooking a turkey. Think about the size, desired cooking method, and even your thawing method. With our turkey cooking time calculator, you can estimate how long it will take to make your perfect bird.
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