USDA roasting times at 325 °F
- Unstuffed: 8–12 lb 2¾–3 h · 12–14 lb 3–3¾ h · 14–18 lb 3¾–4¼ h · 18–20 lb 4¼–4½ h · 20–24 lb 4½–5 h
- Stuffed: 8–12 lb 3–3½ h · 12–14 lb 3½–4 h · 14–18 lb 4–4¼ h · 18–20 lb 4¼–4¾ h · 20–24 lb 4¾–5¼ h
Example: A 14 lb unstuffed turkey roasts for 3 to 3¾ hours. It needs 4 days to thaw in the fridge or 7 hours in cold water. For a 5:00 PM dinner, put it in the oven by about 12:25 PM, allowing the longest roasting time, 30 minutes of slack and 20 minutes of rest.
Food safety
- Never thaw a turkey on the counter.
- Use a meat thermometer — pop-up timers are not reliable.
- Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.
Oven in Celsius? Convert with the oven temperature converter.
Frequently asked questions
How long do I cook a 14 lb turkey?
At 325 °F, about 3 to 3¾ hours unstuffed or 3½ to 4 hours stuffed (USDA). Always check the temperature.
What temperature is turkey done?
165 °F (74 °C) in the thickest part of the thigh, the wing and the breast. If stuffed, the center of the stuffing must also reach 165 °F.
How long does it take to thaw a turkey?
In the refrigerator, about 24 hours for every 4–5 lb. In cold water, about 30 minutes per pound, changing the water every 30 minutes.
Should I rest the turkey?
Yes, 20–30 minutes under loose foil so the juices settle before carving.