Overview
- USDA advises roasting at 375°F and checking with a meat thermometer at least 30 minutes before the planned finish because cook times vary.
- Place the probe in the thigh, the thickest part of the breast without touching bone, and under the wing, with all readings at 165°F.
- For stuffed birds, confirm the center of the stuffing reaches 165°F, and do not stuff the turkey the night before since that is unsafe.
- Unstuffed roasting times from USDA: 8–12 lb 2¾–3 hours; 12–14 lb 3–3¾ hours; 14–18 lb 3¾–4½ hours; 18–24 lb 4½–5 hours.
- Stuffed roasting times from USDA: 8–12 lb 3–3½ hours; 12–14 lb 3½–4 hours; 14–18 lb 4–4¼ hours; 18–24 lb 4¼–5¼ hours.