How long to cook a turkey

Are you roasting a turkey for your family this Thanksgiving? Roasting times vary according to the size of the bird but here are approximate turkey cooking times.

Roast turkey at 325-350F covered and then uncover near end of cooking time.

Approximate Roasting Times for Stuffed Turkey

Turkey Weight/ Hours

6-8 lbs./ 3 to 3.5 hrs
8-12 lbs./ 3.5 to 4.5 hrs
12-16 lbs. / 4.5–5.5 hrs
16-20 lbs./5.5-6 hrs
20-24 lbs./ 6-6.5 hrs

Approximate Roasting Times for Unstuffed Turkey

Turkey Weight/ Hours

6-8 pounds/ 2.5- 3 hrs
8-12 lbs./ 3-4 hrs
12-16 lbs./ 4-5 hrs
16-20 lbs./ 5-5.5 hrs
20-24 lbs./ 5.5-6 hrs
Happy Thanksgiving!

How long to cook a turkey