How Long to Cook Turkey: A Guide to Roasting Both a Stuffed and Unstuffed Bird

Roasting a turkey can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to determining the cooking time. Whether you prefer a stuffed or unstuffed bird, getting the cooking time right is crucial for a juicy and delicious Thanksgiving or holiday centerpiece.

General Tips Before Cooking

Before we dive into the specific cooking times, there are some general guidelines to follow. First, make sure your turkey is completely thawed if it was frozen. A good rule of thumb is to allow about 24 hours of thawing time in the refrigerator for every 4 – 5 pounds of turkey.

Preheat your oven to the appropriate temperature. For most roasting scenarios, a temperature of 325°F (163°C) is ideal. This allows for even cooking without burning the outside of the turkey before the inside is done.

Unstuffed Turkey Cooking Times

For an unstuffed turkey, the cooking time is based primarily on the weight of the bird. As a general estimate:

A turkey that weighs between 8 – 12 pounds should roast for about 2 3/4 to 3 hours.
If your turkey is 12 – 14 pounds, plan on cooking it for 3 to 3 3/4 hours.
For a larger turkey in the 14 – 18 pounds range, the cooking time will be approximately 3 3/4 to 4 1/4 hours.
A very large turkey weighing 18 – 20 pounds or more may take 4 1/4 to 4 1/2 hours.

It’s important to use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey is cooked to the proper internal temperature. The thickest part of the thigh should reach 165°F (74°C). Insert the thermometer into the thigh without touching the bone. You can also check the temperature of the breast, which should be at least 165°F (74°C) as well. The juices should run clear when you pierce the turkey with a fork in the thickest part.

Stuffed Turkey Cooking Times

When the turkey is stuffed, the cooking process becomes a bit more complex. The stuffing adds extra mass inside the turkey, which can affect the cooking time. Here’s a general guide based on the weight of the stuffed turkey:

A stuffed turkey weighing 8 – 12 pounds should be roasted for about 3 to 3 1/2 hours.
For a 12 – 14 – pound stuffed turkey, the cooking time will be around 3 1/2 to 4 hours.
If your stuffed turkey is in the 14 – 18 pounds range, plan on cooking it for 4 to 4 1/2 hours.
A large stuffed turkey of 18 – 22 pounds may take 4 1/2 to 5 hours.

Again, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. In addition to the thigh reaching 165°F (74°C), make sure the stuffing in the center of the turkey also reaches this temperature. This is crucial for food safety as the stuffing can harbor bacteria if not cooked thoroughly.

Other Considerations

Basting: Basting the turkey during the cooking process can help keep it moist. You can use the pan juices or melted butter. Baste the turkey every 30 minutes or so, but be careful when opening the oven door as it can cause the temperature to drop.
Tent with Foil: If the turkey starts to brown too quickly on the outside, you can tent it with aluminum foil. This will prevent over – browning while allowing the inside to continue cooking. However, remove the foil during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow the skin to crisp up again.
Resting Time: Once the turkey is cooked, let it rest for at least 20 – 30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and juicy turkey.

In conclusion, cooking a turkey, whether stuffed or unstuffed, requires careful attention to the cooking time based on the weight of the bird. By following these guidelines and using a meat thermometer, you can ensure a perfectly cooked turkey that will be the star of your holiday meal.