Turkey Cooking Time by Weight
325°F oven
Done at 165°F in the thigh
Roast a thawed turkey at 325°F or higher. A 14 to 18 lb bird takes about 3¾ to 4¼ hours unstuffed. Pick your turkey's weight for its time, thawing schedule and doneness check.
Source: USDA FSIS: Let's Talk Turkey — roasting. Checked Oct 13, 2026.
USDA roasting times at 325°F
| Weight | Unstuffed | Stuffed |
|---|---|---|
| 8 to 12 lb | 2¾ to 3 hours | 3 to 3½ hours |
| 12 to 14 lb | 3 to 3¾ hours | 3½ to 4 hours |
| 14 to 18 lb | 3¾ to 4¼ hours | 4 to 4¼ hours |
| 18 to 20 lb | 4¼ to 4½ hours | 4¼ to 4¾ hours |
| 20 to 24 lb | 4½ to 5 hours | 4¾ to 5¼ hours |
| Breast, 4 to 8 lb | 1½ to 3¼ hours | Not usually applicable |
| Breast, 6 to 8 lb | — | 2½ to 3½ hours |
Times are approximate. USDA says to confirm doneness with a food thermometer: 165°F in the thickest part of the inner thigh, and 165°F in the center of any stuffing.
Before you start
- Thaw in the refrigerator: about 24 hours for every 4 to 5 lb (CDC). Or in cold water: about 30 minutes per lb, changing the water every 30 minutes, then cook right away.
- Cooking from frozen takes at least 50 percent longer than a thawed turkey (USDA FSIS).
- Let the turkey stand 20 minutes before carving (USDA FSIS).
Sources: CDC: Holiday turkey food safety; USDA FSIS: Let's Talk Turkey — roasting. Checked Oct 13, 2026.