How Long Do I Cook a Turkey? A Detailed Guide for the Perfect Bird

Cooking a turkey can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be with the right information. Whether you’re making your first Thanksgiving turkey or an easy weeknight meal, following some simple guidelines will ensure it turns out juicy and delicious every time. In this detailed guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about how long to cook a turkey.

Choosing and Thawing the Turkey

The first step is selecting the right size turkey for your gathering. Plan for about 1 to 1.5 pounds of turkey per person, depending on how much you want for leftovers. It’s also key to make sure your turkey is completely thawed before roasting. Here’s a timeline for thawing turkey in the refrigerator:

• 4 to 12 pounds: 1 to 3 days
• 12 to 16 pounds: 3 to 4 days
• 16 to 20 pounds: 4 to 5 days
• 20 to 24 pounds: 5 to 6 days

If you find yourself without enough thawing time, you can also thaw the turkey in cold water or in the microwave. Just make sure to cook the turkey immediately after thawing.

Determining Cook Time

The most straightforward roasting method is cooking the turkey breast-side up at 350°F. The general guideline is to roast for 13 minutes per pound for an unstuffed turkey.

Here are estimated cook times based on turkey weight

• 10 to 12 pounds: 2 1/4 to 2 3/4 hours
• 12 to 14 pounds: 2 3/4 to 3 hours
• 14 to 18 pounds: 3 to 4 hours
• 18 to 20 pounds: 4 to 4 1/4 hours
• 20 to 24 pounds: 4 1/4 to 5 hours

Keep in mind a stuffed turkey will take longer, about 15 minutes per pound Always check the internal temperature rather than relying on cook times.

Monitoring Temperature

Temperature is the best indicator of doneness for turkey. Use an instant-read meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the thigh and breast. The target temperatures are:

• Thigh: 175°F
• Breast: 170°F

If stuffed, the center of the stuffing should reach 165°F. It’s critical to avoid undercooking turkey to prevent foodborne illness.

About halfway through roasting, tent the turkey loosely with foil to prevent over browning. Then for the last 45 minutes, remove the foil to crisp up the skin.

Letting the Turkey Rest

Never skip the resting time! Letting the turkey sit for at least 30 minutes after roasting allows the juices to redistribute so your meat stays tender and moist.

As the turkey rests, its temperature will continue rising 5 to 10 degrees more. So you can take it out of the oven when the thigh reaches 165°F and the breast 160°F, then the carryover cooking will finish it off.

Carving and Serving

Now your turkey is perfectly cooked through, basking in all its crispy skinned glory. Carve the turkey by slicing the breast meat first. Then remove the legs and separate the thighs.

Arrange the sliced turkey on a platter with your favorite sides. Use the pan drippings to make a flavorful gravy or sauce. Enjoy this marvelous main course you worked hard to prepare!

With this handy timing and temperature guide, you can feel totally confident about how long to cook your turkey. Just remember to factor in thawing, use an instant-read thermometer, and always allow the turkey to rest. Now sit back and await the rave reviews.

Here are some additional turkey roasting tips to ensure success:

• Truss the turkey legs together to stabilize it for even cooking. Tuck the wing tips under too.

• Use a roasting rack inside a pan to elevate the turkey for air circulation. Add broth, wine or water to generate moisture.

• Rub the skin with butter or oil and seasonings for crispy, flavorful skin.

• Use an oven-safe thermometer to monitor the turkey and oven temp simultaneously.

• Make gravy with the flavorful pan drippings after roasting the turkey.

• Allow the roasted turkey to rest for at least 30 minutes before carving.

• Slice the breast meat first when carving, then remove the legs and thighs.

• Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours and eat within 3 to 4 days for food safety.

• Get creative with leftovers! Make turkey soup, sandwiches, casseroles, salads, and more.

With the proper technique, some simple turkey prep delivers a marvelous main course the whole family will love. Just follow the guidelines for thawing, roasting temp and time, monitoring doneness temperature, and resting. You’ll gain confidence to serve a mouthwatering turkey any time of year.