Turkey Cooking Time Calculator
Roasting time, thawing time and the size of turkey you need — based on USDA guidance.
Updated · How we check our maths
- Roasting time at 325°F
- 3 h – 3 h 45 min
- Oven temperature
- 325°F (163°C)
- Done when
- 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh, wing and breast
- Resting time
- 20–30 minutes before carving
- Thaw in the fridge
- 4 days (24 h per 4–5 lb)
- Thaw in cold water
- 7 h (30 min per lb, change water every 30 min)
- Turkey size for 10 guests
- 15 lb (1.5 lb per person)
Quick answer
At 325°F, an unstuffed turkey takes about 13–15 minutes per pound: 2¾–3 hours for 8–12 lb, 3¾–4¼ hours for 14–18 lb and 4½–5 hours for 20–24 lb. Stuffed birds need 15–30 minutes longer. It is done when a thermometer reads 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh, wing and breast.
What the Turkey Cooking Time Calculator does
Enter the weight of your turkey to get the roasting time range at 325°F, based on the USDA roasting chart, plus how long it needs to thaw in the fridge or in cold water. Add your guest count to check you have bought a big enough bird.
Ovens, pans and the starting temperature of the bird all change the time, so start checking the temperature 30 minutes before the low end of the range. Never thaw a turkey on the counter.
The formula
Roasting time follows the USDA weight bands (e.g. 12–14 lb unstuffed: 3–3¾ h), interpolated for weights in between.
Fridge thawing = weight ÷ 4 days (rounded up). Cold-water thawing = 30 minutes × weight. Size: 1–2 lb per guest.
Worked example
A 16 lb unstuffed turkey: about 3 h 45 min – 4 h 15 min at 325°F, 4 days to thaw in the fridge, enough for 10 guests with leftovers.
How to use the Turkey Cooking Time Calculator
- Enter the turkey's weight in pounds.
- Choose stuffed or unstuffed.
- Optionally add the number of guests.
- Use the time range and start checking the temperature early.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a 20 lb turkey take to cook?
About 4½–5 hours unstuffed at 325°F, or 4¾–5¼ hours stuffed.
Should I cook a turkey at 325 or 350°F?
USDA times assume 325°F. At 350°F it will cook a little faster — rely on the thermometer reading of 165°F.
Can I cook a turkey from frozen?
Yes — it is safe but takes about 50% longer than a thawed turkey.
How much turkey per person?
About 1 lb per person for the meal, 1½ lb if you want some leftovers and 2 lb for plenty.
Results are estimates for planning and learning. Check important figures with a qualified professional. How we build and check our calculators.