Turkey Cooking Time Calculator
Looks up how long a whole turkey needs, so you can plan the day, and gives the temperature that decides when it is really done.
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The formula
time = USDA timetable band for the weight fridge thawing = 1 day per 4–5 lb
The bands are the USDA’s timetable for a thawed whole turkey in a conventional oven at 325 °F. A fan oven usually runs faster, so check earlier.
What to watch out for
Allow for thawing first: a large bird takes days in the fridge. Thaw in the fridge on a tray, not on the worktop.
Check the temperature from the start of the range. The USDA and the UK Food Standards Agency both advise cooking stuffing separately, because a stuffed bird takes longer and may not cook through evenly. The times and temperatures here are USDA figures. The Food Standards Agency advises 70 °C for 2 minutes in the thickest part, so follow your own country’s advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a 14 lb turkey take?
3 h to 3 h 45 min unstuffed at 325 °F, or 3 h 30 min to 4 h stuffed. These are planning times: it is done only when a thermometer reads 74 °C (165 °F).
How long does a turkey take to thaw?
Allow about one day in the fridge for every 4–5 lb. A 16 lb bird needs about 4 days.
What temperature should turkey reach?
74 °C (165 °F), according to the USDA, in the thigh, wing and breast, and in any stuffing. Check all of them, as the breast often gets there first.