Step-By-Step to the Perfect Turkey
How Much To Buy?
Plan on 1 pound per serving when buying a bird that weighs 12 pounds or less. Plan on 3/4 of a pound per serving if a bird is more than 12 pounds. For bone-in turkey breast (or portions), figure one-half pound per serving.
Thawing a Frozen Turkey
- Refrigerator Thawing
- Place the wrapped bird on a tray in the refrigerator for 3-4 days (allow 24 hours of thawing time for every 5 pounds)
- Cold-water Thawing:
- Place the wrapped bird in a sink or large pan of COLD water. Change the water every 30 minutes. (Allow 30 minutes thawing time per pound.) Cook bird immediately after thawing.
Timetable for Fresh or Thawed Turkey at 325°F
| Stuffed | ||
| 12-14 LB. | 3.25 – 4 hours | |
| 14-18 LB. | 4 – 4.5 hours | |
| 18-20 LB. | 4.5 – 4.75 hours | |
| 20-24 LB. | 4.75 – 5.25 hours | |
| Unstuffed | ||
| 12-14 LB | 3 – 3.25 hours | |
| 14-18 LB. | 3.25 – 4.25 hours | |
| 18-20 LB. | 4.25 – 4.5 hours | |
| 20-24 LB. | 4.25 – 5 hours |
Timetable for Fresh or Thawed Turkey Breast at 325°F
| Stuffed | 8-12 LB. | 2.5 – 3 hours |
| 12-14 LB. | 3 – 3.25 hours | |
| Unstuffed- | 8-12 LB. | 1.5 – 2.25 hours |
| 12-14 LB. | 2.14 – 3.25 hours |
*Unstuffed turkeys usually require 30 to 45 minutes less roasting time, than stuffed turkeys.
**These times are approximate and should always be used in conjunction with a properly placed thermometer. Cook to an Internal Temperature of 165°F
Happy Thanksgiving!