How Long to Cook a 16 lb Butterball Turkey in the Oven for a Perfectly Roasted Bird

Cooking the star of the Thanksgiving table – the turkey – can feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. With some simple tips and timing guidelines, even novice cooks can roast a moist, flavorful 16 lb turkey. This article will walk through everything you need to know to cook a Butterball turkey perfectly in the oven.

Choosing and Preparing the Turkey

Butterball is the most trusted brand when it comes to holiday turkeys. Their turkeys are specially bred to have more white meat and are pre-basted to ensure moisture and flavor. A 16 lb Butterball turkey will provide plenty of leftovers for sandwiches and turkey soup

Be sure to remove the giblets from the turkey cavities as soon as you bring it home. Rinse the turkey inside and out with cool water and pat dry with paper towels. Some extra steps like brining, seasoning under the skin, or stuffing the cavity can add flavor, but a simple rub of olive oil, salt, and pepper is all you need for a delicious roast turkey.

Roast Turkey Cooking Time Guidelines

The best way to ensure your roast turkey is cooked through without drying out is to follow timing guidelines While a food thermometer is the only sure way to confirm doneness, these time estimates will put you in the right range for 16 lb turkey perfection

• Unstuffed: Cook for approximately 3 to 3 1/2 hours
• Stuffed: Cook for approximately 4 1/2 to 5 hours

Since ovens can vary, start checking the temperature during the last hour of estimated cook time. The breast should reach 165°F and thighs 175°F when done.

Oven Roasting Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F. Be sure the oven is fully preheated before cooking the turkey.

2. Prepare the roasting pan by coating it with cooking spray or lining with foil to prevent sticking. Place a roasting rack in the pan.

3. Season the turkey cavity with salt and pepper. Tuck the wings underneath and tie the legs together with kitchen string.

4. Place the turkey breast side up on the roasting rack. Rub the skin all over with olive oil or butter and generously season with salt and pepper.

5. Roast for 3 to 3 1/2 hours if unstuffed, 4 1/2 to 5 hours if stuffed. Check the temperature in the innermost part of the thigh and breast during the last hour.

6. Once the turkey reaches 165°F in the breast and 175°F in thighs, remove from oven and let rest for 20-30 minutes before carving. The temperature will continue rising as it rests.

7. Make gravy from the turkey pan drippings. Slice turkey and serve immediately with gravy and your favorite side dishes.

Handy Roasting Tips

• Roasting at 325°F allows even cooking without drying out. The lower temp requires slightly longer cooking than higher temps.

• A meat thermometer takes the guess work out. Instant-read ones can be used mid-cooking to check doneness.

• Letting the turkey rest after roasting allows juices to redistribute for moister meat. Tent with foil to keep warm.

• Plastic pop-up timers may pop early. Use them as a guide but always confirm doneness with a food thermometer.

• Cook times are slightly longer for stuffed turkeys. The stuffing must reach 165°F as well.

• If browning too quickly, tent with foil. If not browning enough raise the rack and rub skin with oil or butter.

Common Turkey Roasting FAQs

Should I brine or stuff my turkey?

Brining adds flavor and moisture while stuffing lends flavor. Both are optional but can enhance the roast turkey. Allow extra time if stuffed.

What temperature is best for roasting turkey?

325°F creates moist, even cooking. Higher temps will cook faster but may dry out the meat. Always use a meat thermometer.

How long should I let the turkey rest after roasting?

Let it rest at least 20 to 30 minutes tented with foil before carving. The internal temperature will continue rising a few degrees.

Can I roast a turkey a day ahead?

Turkeys can be roasted 1-2 days ahead. Let cool completely, then refrigerate. Reheat gently to 165°F before serving.

What is the best way to store and reheat leftovers?

Refrigerate carved turkey for 3-4 days. Slice breast meat for sandwiches. Dice or shred dark meat for casseroles, soup, etc. Reheat thoroughly to 165°F.

Enjoy Your Perfectly Roasted 16 lb Turkey

Take the guesswork out of cooking your Thanksgiving turkey this year by following these handy roasting guidelines. A roughly 3 1/2 to 5 hour roast at 325°F for a 16 lb stuffed or unstuffed Butterball turkey will deliver a beautifully browned, moist and tender bird your guests will rave about. Just be sure to let it rest before slicing, make giblet gravy from the flavorful pan drippings, and get ready for amazing leftovers!