How Long to Cook a Turkey
A simple guide to help you roast the perfect turkey every time without the stress.
recipesbynani.comRoasting a turkey is a big task, especially when you only do it once or twice a year. I have spent over fifteen years perfecting this process, and I want to help you get it right so your bird turns out juicy and golden every single time.
My top tip is to let your bird sit at room temperature for about one hour before it goes into the oven. This helps the meat cook more evenly, and I always recommend pulling it out when the thermometer hits 155 to 160 degrees, as the heat continues to rise while the turkey rests.
🧺 Ingredients
- 1 whole turkey, fully thawed
- Salt, pepper, and herbs to taste
- Oil or butter for the skin
👩🍳Instructions
- 1
Remove your turkey from the refrigerator one hour before roasting to bring it closer to room temperature.
- 2
Preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit for a high heat start that crisps the skin.
- 3
Place the turkey in a roasting pan and cook at 450 degrees for 45 minutes.
- 4
Reduce the oven temperature to 325 degrees Fahrenheit for the remainder of the cooking time.
- 5
Use the cooking time chart as a guide, aiming for 8 to 10 minutes per pound for this high heat method, or 10 to 12 minutes per pound if you prefer cooking at 325 degrees the whole time.
- 6
Check for doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the breast, the thigh, and the wing joint.
- 7
Remove the turkey from the oven once the temperature reaches 155 to 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
- 8
Tent the turkey loosely with foil and let it rest for at least 20 to 30 minutes before carving to ensure the juices redistribute.
💡 Tips
Always use a digital meat thermometer for accuracy because juice color is not a reliable way to check for safety. If your turkey finishes a little early, keep it covered with foil and a heavy towel, it will stay hot for up to two hours.
Made this recipe? Let us know how it went.
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