Turkey Cooking Instructions

The general rule for cooking a turkey is 20 minutes per pound, but that can vary depending on whether or not your turkey is stuffed. Use this handy chart to determine approximately how long to cook a stuffed or unstuffed turkey. Of course, the best way to know if your turkey is cooked to a safe temperature is to use a meat thermometer.  Insert it properly and check it often.

These times are based on placing the whole turkey on a rack in a roasting pan, and into a preheated 350 degree F (175 degrees C) oven.

5 Easy Tips for Roasting Turkey

1. Cook the turkey until the skin is a light golden colour, and then cover loosely with a foil tent. During the last 45 minutes of baking, remove the foil tent to brown the skin.
2. Basting will not make turkey moister but will promote even browning of the skin. To get tender and moist turkey meat, try brining it.
3. The only true test for doneness is the temperature of the meat, not the colour of the skin.
   The turkey is done when the thigh meat reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. To get an accurate reading, be sure that your thermometer is not touching the bone.
4. If your turkey has been stuffed, it is important to check the temperature of the dressing; it should be 165 degrees F (75 degrees C).
5. When the turkey is done, remove from the oven and allow to stand for 20-30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat and makes for easier carving.

I also found this link to be helpful, and since it’s from one of our turkey suppliers, I figured they would know what they are talking about.

How to make a Turkey Dinner Start to Finish