how long to bake turkey at 350

To bake a turkey at 350°F, follow this organized plan:

1. Determine the Turkey’s Weight: This is crucial for estimating cooking time. A general guideline is 20 minutes per pound.

2. Stuffed or Unstuffed: A stuffed turkey may take longer, so adjust the time by about 30 minutes to an hour.

3. Preheat Oven: Set your conventional oven to 350°F.

4. Positioning: Place the turkey breast up in a roasting pan. Tent with foil if concerned about browning, which might slightly affect cooking time.

5. Cooking Time:

   • Unstuffed Turkey: 20 minutes per pound.
   • Stuffed Turkey: Increase time by about 30 minutes to an hour.

6. Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F in both the breast and thigh.

7. Let it Rest: Allow the turkey to rest for 20-30 minutes post-cooking for juiciness.

8. Basting: Optional, but can help keep the turkey moist.

9. Oven Rack Position: Use the middle rack for even cooking.

10. Check Guidelines: Consult a reliable source like USDA recommendations for accuracy.

Example: A 12-pound unstuffed turkey would take approximately 240 minutes (4 hours). Adjust if stuffed and monitor with a thermometer.