How Much Is a 14 lb Turkey? Comparing Prices and Cooking Times

Turkeys are a staple for many holiday meals, especially Thanksgiving. A 14 lb turkey is a popular size for feeding a medium to large group. But with inflation pushing food prices higher, is a 14 lb turkey still affordable? And how long does it take to cook one anyway? Here’s what you need to know about buying and cooking a 14 lb turkey.

Turkey Prices at Major Grocery Stores

Turkey prices can vary quite a bit depending on the store. Here’s a sampling of prices for a frozen 14 lb turkey at some major grocery chains

• Aldi – $0.69/lb, total $9.66
• Kroger – $0.88/lb, total $12.32
• Walmart – $0.98/lb, total $13.72
• Publix – $1.49/lb, total $20.86
• Safeway – $1.29/lb, total $18.06
• Giant Eagle – $1.29/lb, total $18.06
• Wegmans – $1.49/lb, total $20.86
• Whole Foods – $2.49/lb, total $34.86

As you can see, prices range from around $070/lb at discount grocers like Aldi up to $2.49/lb at high-end chains like Whole Foods The typical price at most mainstream stores falls between $1.00-1.50/lb.

With inflation affecting food costs, turkey prices in 2022 are up about 20% on average compared to 2021. So a 14 lb turkey that cost $15 last year might now cost around $18. Still, when feeding a crowd, it remains one of the more budget-friendly meat options compared to beef, pork or seafood.

Can You Get a Fresh Turkey for Less?

Opting for a fresh rather than frozen turkey can sometimes save you money. Fresh turkeys are most readily available in the weeks leading up to Thanksgiving. Here are some typical prices for a whole fresh 14 lb turkey:

• Local butcher shop or meat market – $1.29-$1.79/lb, total $18.06-$25.06
• Direct from a local farm – $1.79-$2.29/lb, total $25.06-$32.06
• Specialty grocer like Whole Foods – $2.49-$2.99/lb, total $34.86-$41.86

As you can see, fresh turkeys directly from a farm tend to cost more per pound compared to frozen grocery store varieties. But they are also premium, free-range birds without any additives. Going direct to a butcher shop or meat market can offer fresh turkeys for about the same price as frozen ones from regular supermarkets.

Shopping sales leading up to Thanksgiving can also help you score a fresh turkey for less. While prices are generally cheapest in late November, some grocery chains offer periodic discounts in October and early November to lure in early holiday shoppers.

Cooking Times for a 14 lb Turkey

A 14 lb turkey takes some time to cook. Plan for about 3-4 hours in the oven. Here are some general cooking guidelines:

• Unstuffed: Cook at 325°F for about 3-3 1/2 hours. Internal temperature should reach 170°-175°F in the thigh.

• Stuffed: Cook at 325°F for about 3 1/2-4 hours. Internal temperature should reach 170°-175°F in the thigh. The center of the stuffing must reach 165°F.

• Convection oven: Reduce cooking time by about 30 minutes.

Make sure to let the turkey rest for 30 minutes before carving so the juices can redistribute. This makes for moister meat.

If you want crispy skin, do not cover the turkey while cooking. Basting is also unnecessary and allows heat to escape from the oven, extending cooking time.

For the juiciest results, rub salt on the turkey skin the night before for seasoning and moisture management. Roast your turkey on a flat rack in a shallow roasting pan so air can properly circulate.

Should You Brine the Bird?

Some cooks recommend brining as a way to guarantee a juicy turkey. Brining involves soaking the turkey in a saltwater solution before cooking. However, brining is unnecessary if you properly season and roast the turkey. If not done correctly, brining can make the meat too salty.

If you want to brine anyway, plan for 14-24 hours of brining time in the refrigerator before cooking. Make sure your container is large enough to submerge the entire turkey.

Timing It Right

A 14 lb turkey takes up to 4 hours to cook. If dinner is at 3 p.m., you’ll want to plan to get the turkey in the oven by 10 or 11 a.m.

Once the turkey comes out, let it rest 30 minutes before carving. Meanwhile, you can finish preparing any side dishes or gravy.

If you want to give yourself more time in the morning, you could prep the turkey the night before:

• Remove giblets
• Pat turkey dry
• Rub skin with salt and any other seasonings
• Refrigerate uncovered overnight

Then in the morning you just have to pop the seasoned turkey straight into the preheated oven.

Should You Start with a Frozen or Thawed Turkey?

You have two options here:

1. Start with a frozen turkey: This is the easiest route. Just plan for some extra roasting time. Add about 30 minutes to the total cooking time if starting with a frozen 14 lb turkey.

2. Thaw the turkey first: For more even cooking, thaw your frozen turkey before roasting. Give yourself 3-5 days in the refrigerator for a 14 lb turkey to thaw. Keep the turkey in its packaging on a tray to catch any leaks. Once thawed, proceed as usual with seasoning and roasting.

Both methods work well, so choose based on your schedule, refrigerator space and turkey availability at stores. A frozen turkey may be your only option if shopping last minute.

Alternatives to Whole Roasted Turkey

If a whole turkey sounds like too much work, consider these easy alternatives for smaller groups:

• Cook just a boneless turkey breast (5-7 lbs). Takes only 1 1/2 – 2 1/2 hours.

• Make turkey parts like drumsticks and thighs. Much quicker cooking.

• Get a smaller turkey tenderloin (1-2 lbs). Roasts in 30-60 minutes.

• Make turkey meatballs, burgers or sausage. Fun twists on turkey flavor.

• Roast a cornish game hen or duck for each person. Easier individual portions.

• Cook an enchilada casserole or turkey tetrazzini. Delicious casseroles with leftover turkey.

The Verdict: Is a 14 lb Turkey Worth It?

While prices are up this year, a 14 lb turkey still provides one of the more affordable options for feeding a crowd. With a little planning, you can keep costs down by shopping sales, considering fresh turkeys, or getting creative with partial birds or turkey alternatives.

Allow plenty of time for roasting and resting, and rely on a meat thermometer for perfect doneness. For the cook, a 14 lb bird may seem intimidating. But your guests will be impressed with the beautiful golden bird anchoring your holiday table.