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Whole Turkey

12–16 lb bird, thawed completely

Quick Answer

Whole Turkey: roast at 350°F for about 210 min (14 lb). Internal temp: 165°F in thickest part of thigh.

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Safe Internal Temp
165°F in thickest part of thigh

Cooking Methods

↕ Slide the temperature to see how cook times change

your temp
350°F
cook time
~210min (14 lb)
Low & slow 325°375° Hot & fast
✎ ~15 min per pound. Tent foil if browning too fast. Rest 30 min.

your temp
425°F
cook time
~90min (14 lb)
Low & slow 400°450° Hot & fast
✎ Remove backbone, press flat. Cooks 40% faster with crispier skin.

Food Safety

Whole turkey must reach 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh. Check multiple spots — the breast and thigh cook at different rates. The breast usually finishes first, which is why brining and tenting with foil matters. Rest 30 minutes minimum — a large bird will continue cooking 10–15°F from carryover. Never stuff a turkey without accounting for the stuffing also reaching 165°F.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best tips for cooking whole turkey?
Brine 12–24 hrs for juicier results. Air-dry uncovered in fridge overnight for crispy skin. Tent with foil if browning too fast. Rest 30 min.
What internal temperature should whole turkey reach?
Whole turkey must reach 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh. Check multiple spots — the breast and thigh cook at different rates. The breast usually finishes first, which is why brining and tenting with foil matters. Rest 30 minutes minimum — a large bird will continue cooking 10–15°F from carryover. Never stuff a turkey without accounting for the stuffing also reaching 165°F.
How do you roast whole turkey?
Roast at 240–180 min (14 lb). ~15 min per pound. Tent foil if browning too fast. Rest 30 min.
How do you spatchcock whole turkey?
Spatchcock at 100–75 min (14 lb). Remove backbone, press flat. Cooks 40% faster with crispier skin.
How do you smoke whole turkey?
Smoke at 6–8 hrs. Cherry or pecan wood. ~30 min per pound. Incredible flavor.
How do you deep fry whole turkey?
Deep Fry at 45–55 min. FULLY thawed and dry. Outdoor only. Peanut oil. No stuffing inside.