The cooking time for a turkey depends primarily on its weight, whether it is stuffed or unstuffed, and the oven temperature. Here are the general guidelines:
Oven Roasting at 350°F (177-180°C)
- For an unstuffed turkey , roast for about 13 to 15 minutes per pound (approximately 28 to 33 minutes per kg).
- For a stuffed turkey , add extra time, roughly 15 to 17 minutes per pound (about 33 to 37 minutes per kg).
Example cooking times at 350°F (177°C) from Canadian Turkey guidelines:
Weight (lbs)| Unstuffed Time| Stuffed Time
---|---|---
8 – 10 lbs| 2 h – 2 h 30 min| 2 h 40 min – 3 h 30 min
11 – 13 lbs| 2 h 45 min – 3 h 15 min| 3 h 40 min – 4 h 20 min
14 – 16 lbs| 3 h 30 min – 4 h| 4 h 40 min – 5 h 20 min
17 – 19 lbs| 4 h 15 min – 4 h 45 min| 5 h 40 min – 6 h 20 min
20 – 22 lbs| 5 h – 5 h 30 min| 6 h 40 min – 7 h 20 min
23 – 24 lbs| 5 h 45 min – 6 h| 7 h 40 min – 8 h
The turkey is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast or 170°F (77°C) in the thigh, and the juices run clear
Alternative Timing Formula (BBC Good Food)
- For turkeys under 4 kg (about 8.8 lbs) : roast for 20 minutes per kg plus 70 minutes.
- For turkeys over 4 kg : roast for 20 minutes per kg plus 90 minutes.
- Oven temperature recommended: 190°C (170°C fan)/Gas 5.
- Check doneness by ensuring juices run clear when piercing the thigh
Slow Cooking Method
- Cook at 250°F (120°C) for about 20 minutes per pound.
- This method keeps the turkey very moist but requires the bird to be completely thawed and careful temperature monitoring
Summary
- Most common roasting temperature: 350°F (175-180°C).
- Cooking time: 13-15 minutes per pound (unstuffed) , longer if stuffed.
- Always use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature for safety and doneness.
- Adjust times based on oven accuracy, turkey size, and whether the bird is stuffed.
Using these guidelines will help you cook your turkey properly without over- or undercooking it
