How Long to Cook a Turkey

A Calm, Confident Guide to the Centerpiece of the Table

Every year, the same question returns like clockwork: How long to cook a turkey? It’s not just a matter of time, it’s a matter of confidence. Whether this is your first time roasting the bird or your fortieth, having a reliable guide can mean the difference between dry disappointment and a show-stopping centerpiece.

What Size Turkey Do You Need?

Start by figuring out how big a bird you actually need. I always suggest aiming for 1 to 1.5 lbs per person. That allows for generous portions and some leftovers, which is part of the joy of Thanksgiving. For example, if you’re feeding 8 guests, a 12-lb turkey should suffice. If you’re serving hearty eaters or want next-day sandwiches, bump it up to 14 to 16 lbs.

What You'll Need to Cook a Turkey

Cooking a turkey is much easier with the right tools. Here’s what to have on hand before you get started:

• Roasting pan with a rack – Elevates the turkey so hot air can circulate and the skin crisps up evenly.
• Digital meat thermometer – Whether instant-read or leave-in, this ensures your turkey is fully cooked (165°F/74°C in the thigh).
• Kitchen twine – Handy for trussing the legs, which helps the bird cook evenly.
• Aluminum foil – Use it to tent the turkey if the skin starts browning too quickly.
• Basting spoon or brush – Optional, but great for adding moisture and flavor during roasting.
• Fat separator or measuring cup – Helps remove excess fat from the pan drippings before making gravy.
• Fine mesh sieve and saucepan – Essential for preparing a smooth, rich turkey gravy.

So, How Long to Cook a Turkey?

Here’s the golden rule I use every year: roast your unstuffed turkey at 325°F (163°C) and calculate about 15 minutes per pound. That means a 12-lb turkey should take roughly 3 hours. If the bird is stuffed, add an extra 15 to 30 minutes depending on the size. But don’t just rely on the clock. A meat thermometer is your best friend.

• Unstuffed turkey at 325°F (163°C): 15 minutes per pound
• Stuffed turkey at 325°F (163°C): 16 to 17 minutes per pound
• Internal temperature for doneness: 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh, and 160°F (71°C) in the center of the stuffing if used

Quick Turkey Cooking Time Guide (at 325°F / 163°C):

• 8 to 12 lbs (3.6 to 5.4 kg) – 2¾ to 3 hours (unstuffed)
• 12 to 14 lbs (5.4 to 6.3 kg) – 3 to 3¾ hours (unstuffed)
• 14 to 18 lbs (6.3 to 8.2 kg) -3¾ to 4¼ hours (unstuffed)
• 18 to 20 lbs (8.2 to 9 kg) – 4¼ to 4½ hours (unstuffed)
• 20 to 24 lbs (9 to 10.9 kg) – 4½ to 5 hours (unstuffed)

Stuffed birds take longer: add 15–30 minutes more, and always check the internal temperature of both stuffing and meat.

Tips for Timing It Just Right

Over the years, I’ve learned that turkey doesn’t need to be stressful. Here are a few simple tips:

• Let the bird come to room temperature for 30 to 60 minutes before roasting.
• Use a roasting rack for even airflow and crispier skin.
• Tent with foil if the skin browns too quickly.
• Always let it rest. Once out of the oven, give your turkey at least 30 minutes before carving. This keeps the juices inside where they belong.

How to Cook a Turkey (Step-by-Step)

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). While it heats, pat the turkey dry with paper towels, this helps the skin crisp up beautifully. Rub the bird generously with olive oil or softened butter, then season with salt, pepper, and any herbs or aromatics you love. Tuck some onion, garlic, lemon, or herbs like thyme and rosemary into the cavity for added flavor. Place the turkey on the rack in the roasting pan, breast side up. Roast according to its weight, basting occasionally if you’d like. Once it reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thigh, remove it from the oven and let it rest, tented loosely with foil, for at least 30 minutes before carving. This rest time is crucial, as it allows the juices to redistribute for tender, juicy meat.

Do You Need to Baste?

Basting is optional. Personally, I baste every 30 to 45 minutes if I’m going for extra golden skin. But if you’re using butter or oil in the prep, you can skip it and focus on not opening the oven too often. The more you peek, the more heat you lose.

Trust the Thermometer, Not the Clock

I can’t stress this enough. Time gives you an estimate, but temperature tells the truth. Insert a digital meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh, avoiding the bone. When it hits 165°F (74°C), you’re there.
And if you’re stuffing the bird, check the center of the stuffing too. It must hit 160°F (71°C) to be safe to eat. If it’s not there yet but the turkey is, scoop out the stuffing and finish it in the oven separately.

How to Make Turkey Gravy

If you’ve roasted your turkey in a traditional pan (not a disposable one), you’re halfway to excellent gravy. After transferring the turkey to rest, pour the drippings into a heatproof bowl or fat separator. Let the fat rise to the top and spoon it off, reserving about ¼ cup. In a saucepan, whisk this fat with an equal amount of flour to create a roux, cooking until golden. Slowly add the defatted drippings along with some turkey or chicken stock, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Simmer until thickened to your liking, then season with salt and pepper. If you want ultra-smooth gravy, strain it before serving. Gravy made from scratch is rich, flavorful, and ties the whole meal together.

What If You’re Cooking a Frozen Turkey?

It happens. You wake up Thanksgiving morning and realize the bird is still frozen. Don’t panic. You can cook a frozen turkey safely, it just takes longer. Figure about 50 percent more time than usual, and don’t forget to remove the giblet packet once it’s thawed enough mid-roast.

The Final Word on How Long to Cook a Turkey

In the end, the perfect turkey is less about magic and more about preparation. Follow the time guidelines, trust your thermometer, and give yourself enough wiggle room so you’re not racing the clock. Whether you’re serving a cozy gathering or a crowd, you now know exactly how long to cook a turkey and how to do it right.
Hungry for more tips? Head over to our Thanksgiving Hosting Guide for timelines, printable checklists, and recipe inspiration, from Thanksgiving pies to cocktails. You can also find us on social media for daily ideas and turkey troubleshooting.