How Long Does It Take to Cook a Turkey at 250 Degrees?

Cooking a juicy and flavorful turkey is often the highlight of festive gatherings like Thanksgiving and Christmas. Many home cooks have questions about the right temperature and timing when roasting a turkey, especially when using a lower oven temperature like 250°F. In this article, we’ll explore how long it takes to cook a turkey at 250 degrees Fahrenheit and share tips for ensuring perfect results.

How Long Per Pound at 250°F?

The general rule of thumb when roasting a turkey at 250°F is to calculate 25-30 minutes per pound. So for a 12-pound turkey, you would expect a roasting time of approximately 5-6 hours at 250°F.

The benefit of slow roasting a turkey at a lower oven temperature is that it cooks the meat gently and evenly from the inside out. The bird has time to become meltingly tender and soak up all the flavors from any rubs, herbs or aromatics you add to the cavity or under the skin.

While this low and slow technique yields delicious results, it does require patience. Be prepared for a lengthy roasting time, especially if cooking a large 20+ pound turkey.

Should You Baste the Turkey?

Basting is not strictly necessary when slow roasting a turkey at 250°F. The low heat helps prevent the turkey skin from drying out. However, basting every 30-60 minutes does add flavor and promotes browning.

If you want to baste use a turkey baster or large spoon to scoop up pan juices from the bottom of the roasting pan. Carefully distribute them over the turkey skin, taking care not to tear the delicate skin.

Benefits of a Low Oven Temperature

There are a few key benefits to cooking your turkey low and slow at 250°F:

• Even cooking: The gentle heat distributes gradually from the outside to the center, preventing burnt outer portions or undercooked meat near the bone.

• Maximum juiciness: The collagen in the meat has time to break down into gelatin which bastes the turkey in its own flavorful juices.

• Intensified flavor: Spending hours in the oven allows the bird to fully absorb any rubs, broth, or aroma from stuffing placed in the cavity.

• Relaxed pacing: Once the turkey is in the oven, you don’t need to worry about drastic swings in temperature. The low and steady pace makes it easier to focus on side dishes.

Should You Cover the Turkey?

Covering the turkey with a loose foil tent for most of the roasting time helps seal in moisture when cooking at 250°F. Tent the foil so it doesn’t touch the bird directly.

You can remove the foil about 30-60 minutes before the turkey is fully cooked. This allows the skin to brown and crisp up. Brushing the skin with oil or butter promotes further browning once uncovered.

Is Stuffing Recommended?

It’s best not to stuff the turkey cavity when roasting at 250°F. Stuffing may not reach a safe internal temperature in time. Cook stuffing separately to eliminate any risks.

However, you can still add flavor to the turkey by placing aromatics like onions, garlic, citrus, or fresh herbs inside the empty cavity. Their essence will permeate the meat as it slowly cooks.

Let the Turkey Rest

Always allow the cooked turkey to rest at least 20-30 minutes before carving. As the turkey sits, its juices redistribute throughout the meat.

Tenting the turkey with foil while it rests keeps it piping hot for serving. The natural carryover cooking during this time also boosts the internal temperature a bit further.

Take Turkey Temperature

While the 25-30 minutes per pound estimate provides a rough timeline, using an instant read thermometer offers the best way to assess doneness when roasting at 250°F.

Test the thickest part of the breast and thigh, making sure the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before serving. If it’s not quite there yet, return to the oven for final roasting at 275-300°F.

Handy Temperature Tips

• Thaw turkey completely before roasting
• Preheat oven fully to 250°F
• Use a good quality oven thermometer
• Allow 20-30 minutes carryover cooking after removing turkey from oven
• Double check temperature in multiple spots before serving

With the right timing, temperature and technique, your turkey will turn out perfectly moist and delicious after its low and slow roasting. Let us know how your 250°F turkey fares this holiday season!