How Long Does It Take to Cook a 20lb Turkey at 350 Degrees?

Cooking a big 20lb turkey can seem like an intimidating task, especially if you’ve never cooked one that large before. Many people wonder, how long does it take to fully cook a 20lb turkey at 350 degrees Fahrenheit? The answer depends on a few factors.

In general, cooking times for turkeys range from about 13-15 minutes per pound So for a 20lb turkey, you’ll need about 4-5 hours total cooking time at 350°F to ensure it reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F in the thickest part of the breast and thigh Here’s a more detailed look at approximate cooking times

Cooking Times for a 20lb Turkey

• At 425°F: 3.5 – 3.75 hours
• At 400°F: 3.75 – 4 hours
• At 350°F: 4 – 4.25 hours

As you can see, cooking at a lower temperature like 350°F takes longer than cooking at higher temperatures like 425°F. The advantage of using a lower temperature is that it allows the turkey to cook more gently and evenly throughout This helps keep the meat moist and tender

Higher temperatures will speed up the cooking time but may cause the outer portions of the turkey to overcook and dry out before the inside is finished. That’s why most experts recommend roasting turkeys at 325-375°F.

Key Tips for Cooking a 20lb Turkey

Here are some key tips to ensure perfect turkey results:

• Use a thermometer. Investing in a good digital meat thermometer is crucial. Test the internal temperature in the thickest part of the thigh and breast to determine doneness.

• Calculate total cooking time. Plan for about 13-15 minutes per pound at 325-375°F. For a 20lb turkey, estimate 4-5 hours total time.

• Factor in carryover cooking. The turkey’s temperature will continue rising 5-10°F after removing it from the oven as the heat evenly distributes. So take it out before it hits 165°F.

• Let it rest. Letting the turkey rest for 30-60 minutes after roasting allows the juices to absorb back into the meat. Tent it with foil to keep warm.

• Maintain oven temperature. Use an oven thermometer to confirm your oven runs at the set temperature. Opening the door frequently causes drops in temp.

• Cook breast side up. Placing the turkey with the breast side up promotes even cooking between dark and white meat.

• Use a roasting pan. Choose a heavy roasting pan to allow for good heat circulation around the turkey.

• Baste occasionally. Basting the turkey with the pan juices helps keep the skin from drying out. Baste every 30-60 minutes.

• Make sure it’s fully thawed. Only cook fully thawed turkeys to ensure even cooking. Thaw frozen turkeys 1-2 days per 4-5 pounds in the fridge.

Is a 20lb Turkey Too Big?

While large 20lb turkeys are popular for feeding a crowd, some people find them to be excessive. The trouble with oversized turkeys is that the breast meat often ends up drying out from prolonged cooking before the dark meat is finished.

Foroptimal moisture and flavor, many experts recommend purchasing turkeys in the 12-15lb range instead. Smaller turkeys are easier tomanage and you can cook two if needed to feed a large party.

If cooking a 20lb turkey, beextra diligent aboutbasting, monitoring temperature, and letting it rest before carvingfor best results.And as always, have a meat thermometer handy to confirm doneness!

Signs Your Turkey is Fully Cooked

Here are signs to check for when determining if your 20lb turkey is cooked through at 350°F:

• Internal temperature of 165°F in the thickest portions of breast and thigh, checked with a food thermometer

• Clear juices run from the thickest part of the thigh when pierced with a knife or fork

• Thigh and wing joints move easily when manipulated

• Meat near thigh bone looks opaque with no traces of pink when pierced

• Stuffing temperature reaches 165°F (if cooked inside turkey)

• Aroma of cooked turkey emanates from oven vents or when cavity is opened

• Drumsticks twist loosely in their sockets

• Skin is lightly browned and crispy

If in doubt, keep roasting until the thermometer confirms a safe internal temp. The extra time is worthwhile to ensure tasty, fully cooked turkey meat.

What if It’s Undercooked?

If you cut into your turkey and find the meat is still pink or not quite cooked through, don’t panic. Simply pop it back into a 350°F oven until the thermometer registers 165°F in multiple spots. Monitor it closely and test the temperature every 5-10 minutes to avoid overcooking.

Lightly tenting foil over breast and extremities can help slow further browning. Just remember to remove foil and allow skin to crisp at end once fully cooked.

If caught early, finishing off an undercooked turkey by returning it to the oven usually provides good results. The meat will continue gently cooking to perfection with little evidence of the mishap once you carve and serve it.

Mastering the 20lb Turkey

Cooking turkey can provoke anxiety, especially when dealing with a large 20lb bird. To master the process, arm yourself with the right tools – a good thermometer, heavy roasting pan, and basting brush.

Calculate the complete cooking time needed at 350°F – for a 20lb turkey expect around 4-4.25 hours. Monitor its progress carefully and rely on both temperature and visual signs of doneness. Resting it properly afterwards also ensures a juicy, flavorful feast.

With the right techniques, even novice cooks can successfully roast a mouthwatering 20lb turkey. A perfectly cooked, golden brown turkey makes a stunning centerpiece to your holiday table.