Turkey Cooking Time Calculator

Turkey Roasting Time by Weight

Roasting time depends on turkey weight, whether it is stuffed, how well done you want it, and oven speed. Enter weight in pounds to get cook time, oven temperature, basting interval, and resting time. Start with the Turkey Size Calculator to pick the right bird, then thaw with the Turkey Defrost Calculator. For other holiday mains, see the Ham Cooking Time Calculator.

Minutes per Pound

Unstuffed turkeys roast at about 15 minutes per pound. Stuffed birds need about 17.5 minutes per pound because the center must reach a safe temperature. Well-done preference adds about 1.5 minutes per pound.

$$\text{cook minutes} = \text{weight (lb)} \times \text{minutes per lb}$$

Fast oven mode uses about 85% of normal time at 350°F. Slow mode uses about 110% of normal time at 325°F. Normal mode is 325°F with standard timing.

Basting and Resting

Baste every 30 minutes in normal or slow mode, or about every 45 minutes in fast mode. Plan 30 minutes of resting after the bird leaves the oven before carving. Total time includes both roasting and rest.

Example for a 16 lb Unstuffed Turkey

At normal speed and normal doneness: $16 \times 15 = 240$ minutes of roasting, plus 30 minutes rest, for about 4.5 hours total.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I cook a stuffed turkey?

Use about 17.5 minutes per pound at 325°F in normal mode. Stuffing in the cavity slows heat transfer to the center.

What oven temperature should I use?

Normal and slow modes use 325°F. Fast mode uses 350°F with a shorter cook time.

Should I include resting time?

Yes. Resting about 30 minutes lets juices redistribute and makes carving easier. The tool adds this to total time.

How often should I baste the turkey?

Every 30 minutes in normal or slow mode. Fast mode suggests basting about every 45 minutes.

Does this replace a meat thermometer?

No. Use a thermometer to confirm 165°F in the thickest part of the breast and stuffing. Time estimates are a starting guide.

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