To cook a turkey in the oven, roast it at 325°F (163°C) for 15–16 minutes per pound for an unstuffed bird, or 16–17 minutes per pound if stuffed. For example, a 14-pound unstuffed turkey will take approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes.
Always use a meat thermometer to confirm doneness—the thickest part of the thigh should register 165°F (74°C). See the full turkey cooking time chart below for exact times based on weight.
This post includes a tested and simplified method for how long to cook turkey in the oven, along with pro tips, a handy chart, and expert-tested advice for home cooks, beginners, and Thanksgiving hosts alike.
Table of Contents
- The Turkey Question I Get Asked Every Year…
- Why Trust Me?
- Turkey Cooking Time Chart (Unstuffed & Stuffed)
- What You’ll Need
- Other Important Information
- Step-by-Step Directions: How to Roast a Turkey
- How to Store Leftover Turkey
- Turkey Recipes to Try with Leftovers
- Final Thoughts
- Connect With Me
The Turkey Question I Get Asked Every Year…
If I had a dollar for every time someone asked, “How long should I cook my turkey?”, well, let’s just say I’d have a vacation home in Mexico funded by this question. I’ve tested countless turkey cooking methods, both in my home kitchen and for recipe development clients, and the answer is simpler than you think when you follow the right formula (and trust your thermometer!).
This guide was created to take the guesswork out of turkey roasting times, whether it’s your first bird or your 20th. It’s approachable, accurate, and yes… even tested multiple times over the years to ensure that golden, juicy turkey perfection.
Why Trust Me?
As a lifestyle and entertaining expert and a recipe developer for top food brands, I know the importance of making a holiday meal feel effortless yet elevated. My readers trust me for simple, flavor-packed recipes and tips that work… especially when it comes to hosting.
Whether you’re making your Thanksgiving turkey or a Sunday roast, I’ll guide you through exactly how long to roast it, what temperature to use, and how to ensure it turns out moist and flavorful, every single time.
Turkey Cooking Time Chart (Unstuffed & Stuffed)
Here’s your easy-to-read turkey roasting chart based on the bird’s weight. Times are for roasting a fully thawed turkey at 325°F (163°C).
| Turkey Weight | Unstuffed (15–16 min/lb) | Stuffed (16–17 min/lb) |
|---|---|---|
| 10 lbs | 2 hrs 30 min – 2 hrs 40 min | 2 hrs 40 min – 2 hrs 50 min |
| 12 lbs | 3 hrs – 3 hrs 15 min | 3 hrs 15 min – 3 hrs 30 min |
| 14 lbs | 3 hrs 30 min – 3 hrs 45 min | 3 hrs 45 min – 4 hrs |
| 16 lbs | 4 hrs – 4 hrs 15 min | 4 hrs 15 min – 4 hrs 30 min |
| 18 lbs | 4 hrs 30 min – 4 hrs 45 min | 4 hrs 45 min – 5 hrs |
| 20 lbs | 5 hrs – 5 hrs 15 min | 5 hrs 15 min – 5 hrs 30 min |
Always confirm doneness with a meat thermometer
- Thigh (deepest part): 165°F (74°C)
- Stuffing (if applicable): 165°F (74°C)
- Breast: Around 160–165°F (71–74°C)
What You’ll Need
This simplified oven-roasting method keeps things approachable, yet flavorful. No fussing with brining buckets (unless you want to), just solid technique and proper timing.
Key Tools:
- Roasting pan with rack – Elevates the turkey for even air circulation.
- Meat thermometer – Essential for accuracy.
- Foil – To tent the turkey if it browns too quickly.
- Basting brush or bulb (optional) – For moisture and flavor, optional but recommended to have one in your kitchen tool set.
Core Ingredients:
- Whole turkey – Fresh or thawed completely if frozen.
- Butter – Rubbed under and over the skin for crispness and flavor.
- Salt & pepper – Generous seasoning is key.
- Herbs (thyme, rosemary, sage) – Optional, but adds a beautiful aroma.
- Onion, lemon, garlic – For stuffing the cavity for aromatics.
Quick Tip
For extra flavor, rub the turkey with a herb-butter mixture and let it sit overnight in the fridge uncovered. This dries out the skin slightly for better crisping.
Other Important Information
- Frozen turkey: Be sure to fully thaw it in the fridge. Allow 24 hours of thawing for every 4–5 pounds.
- Dry brine: Instead of a wet brine, rub with salt and herbs 24–48 hours in advance.
- Turkey breast only: Roast at 325°F for ~20 minutes per pound.
- Convection oven: Reduce roasting temperature to 300°F and cook 10–15% faster.
Step-by-Step Directions: How to Roast a Turkey
- Prep the Turkey (Thawed + Dry)
Remove neck and giblets. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels. Moisture is the enemy of crispy skin. - Season Generously
Rub softened butter, salt, pepper, and herbs under and over the skin. Stuff cavity with aromatics. - Preheat Oven to 325°F (163°C)
Place turkey breast-side up on a roasting rack in a large pan. - Roast According to Weight (See Chart Above)
Baste occasionally, or every 45 minutes, if desired. Tent loosely with foil if skin is browning too fast. - Check for Doneness
Use a meat thermometer in the thickest part of the thigh. You’re aiming for 165°F. Let the turkey rest for at least 30 minutes before carving.
Top Tips for Perfect Turkey Every Time
Use a thermometer, not guesswork. It’s the most accurate way to know your turkey is done.
Let it rest. Resting keeps juices in the meat and makes it easier to carve.
Don’t stuff your bird (if possible). Adding the stuffing slows down cooking and increases risk of undercooked stuffing.
Butter under the skin = magic. For juicy meat and golden skin.
Start with the breast side up. Flip halfway through only if needed (for small birds).
How to Store Leftover Turkey
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap sliced turkey in plastic and foil or store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Cover with foil and reheat at 300°F with a splash of broth or gravy to keep it moist.
Turkey Recipes to Try with Leftovers
- Quick Citrus Turkey Salad
- Acorn Squash Salad with Turkey and Roasted Pears
- Grilled Spicy Turkey Breast Recipe with Veggies
- Blueberry Glazed Turkey Salad with Goat Cheese
- Thanksgiving Leftover Pizzas
FAQ
Final Thoughts
Roasting the perfect turkey doesn’t have to be stressful. With a clear game plan, the right timing, and a meat thermometer in hand, your Thanksgiving turkey or holiday centerpiece can be as impressive as it is delicious. Whether it’s your first time or you just need a refresher, this guide is here to help.
From my kitchen to yours—happy roasting! Let me know if you try this method, and don’t forget to bookmark this for Thanksgiving and beyond.
Connect With Me
Make sure to follow me on Instagram for more food inspiration and tips, and join the conversation on Facebook where I share recipes daily!
Christopher is a food and lifestyle expert, recipe developer and the content creator behind May Eighty Five. With over 6 years of creating recipes for your favourite food brands, he also shares tips, tricks and how to’s that he has learnt over the years. Every week, he shares quick, simple and mostly healthy recipes along with some home and entertaining tips. You will find flavorful cocktails, delicious appetizers, tasty mains and some indulgent desserts.
