how long to bake a turkey

The baking time for a turkey depends on several factors, including the size of the turkey, the temperature of the oven, and whether the turkey is stuffed or unstuffed. Here are some general guidelines for baking a turkey:

Unstuffed Turkey:

• 4-6 pounds (1.8-2.7 kg): 1 1/2 to 2 1/4 hours at 325°F (165°C)
• 6-8 pounds (2.7-3.6 kg): 2 1/4 to 3 hours at 325°F (165°C)
• 8-12 pounds (3.6-5.4 kg): 3 to 3 3/4 hours at 325°F (165°C)
• 12-14 pounds (5.4-6.3 kg): 3 3/4 to 4 1/4 hours at 325°F (165°C)
• 14-18 pounds (6.3-8.2 kg): 4 to 4 3/4 hours at 325°F (165°C)
• 18-20 pounds (8.2-9 kg): 4 1/4 to 5 hours at 325°F (165°C)
• 20-24 pounds (9-10.9 kg): 5 to 5 3/4 hours at 325°F (165°C)

Stuffed Turkey:

• 4-6 pounds (1.8-2.7 kg): 2 1/4 to 3 hours at 325°F (165°C)
• 6-8 pounds (2.7-3.6 kg): 3 to 3 3/4 hours at 325°F (165°C)
• 8-12 pounds (3.6-5.4 kg): 3 3/4 to 4 3/4 hours at 325°F (165°C)
• 12-14 pounds (5.4-6.3 kg): 4 1/4 to 5 1/4 hours at 325°F (165°C)
• 14-18 pounds (6.3-8.2 kg): 5 to 6 hours at 325°F (165°C)
• 18-20 pounds (8.2-9 kg): 5 1/4 to 6 1/4 hours at 325°F (165°C)
• 20-24 pounds (9-10.9 kg): 6 to 7 hours at 325°F (165°C)

Important Notes:

• Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Baste the turkey with melted butter or oil every 30 minutes to keep it moist and promote even browning.
• Let the turkey rest for 20-30 minutes before carving to allow the juices to redistribute.
• If you’re using a convection oven, reduce the cooking time by about 25%.

Remember, these are just guidelines, and the actual cooking time may vary depending on your specific oven and turkey. Always check the turkey’s internal temperature to ensure it’s cooked to a safe temperature.