how long to bake 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 Safety Notes:

• Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Never leave a turkey unattended while it’s cooking.
• Always let the turkey rest for 20-30 minutes before carving.

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