How Long Does a 14 lb Turkey Take to Cook at 325°F?

Roasting a juicy, flavorful turkey is the centerpiece of many holiday meals. But determining the right roasting time can be tricky, especially for first-time turkey chefs. If you are cooking a 14 lb turkey in a 325°F oven, how long should you expect it to take until it is perfectly cooked through?

Let’s walk through everything you need to know to roast your 14 lb turkey to golden brown perfection at 325°F

Why Cook a Turkey at 325°F?

Cooking the turkey at a lower oven temperature of 325°F versus the standard 350°F has several advantages

• The turkey cooks more slowly and gently, keeping the meat incredibly moist and tender.

• There is less chance of the outside drying out before the inside cooks through.

• The meat has time to absorb all the flavorful seasonings and herbs

• You achieve more even browning and color.

• It gives you more time for side dishes if your oven space is limited.

325°F creates the ideal environment for roasting a moist and delicious turkey.

Estimated Roasting Time

The general guideline for roasting an unstuffed turkey is to allow 15 minutes per pound at 325°F.

For a 14 lb turkey, that equals:

14 lbs x 15 minutes per lb = 210 minutes total roasting time

So a 14 lb turkey will require around 3 1/2 hours in a 325°F oven.

This time range ensures the turkey reaches the safe minimum internal temperature of 165°F in the innermost part of the thigh and breast.

If you opt to stuff your turkey, extend the roasting time to 18-20 minutes per pound to ensure the stuffing also reaches 165°F.

Seasoning and Preparation

Proper seasoning and prep are key to maximizing flavor. Try these tips:

• Brine the turkey overnight in a saltwater solution to infuse it with moisture and seasoning. Make sure to pat it completely dry before roasting.

• Coat the turkey with softened butter or oil and generously season both inside and out with salt, pepper and dried herbs.

• Fill the cavity with onion, celery, apple and fresh herbs. Their flavors will impart deliciousness during the long roast.

• Tie the legs together with kitchen string to hold their shape. Tuck the wing tips under.

• Place the turkey on a rack in a roasting pan to allow air circulation.

Maintaining Oven Temperature

It’s critical to monitor and maintain the 325°F oven temperature throughout roasting. An oven thermometer placed inside the oven ensures an accurate reading. Expect the temperature to drop each time the oven door opens. Preheat the oven 30-40 minutes prior to cooking.

Basting and Tenting

Basting is optional but helps produce a beautiful, even browning. Use the pan juices or melted butter to baste every 30 minutes.

Once the turkey reaches a rich golden color, loosely tent foil over the breast to prevent over-browning. Baste one last time just before removing from the oven.

Checking Doneness

The best way to confirm your 14 lb turkey is fully cooked through is to use an instant-read meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the thigh, taking care not to hit bone. Once it reaches 165°F, your turkey is ready. The breast and stuffing should register 165°F as well.

After removing the turkey from the oven, allow it to rest 20-30 minutes before carving. This resting time is key for easily carving juicy results.

Extra Turkey Roasting Tips

• Resist opening the oven door frequently to avoid heat loss.

• Use a leave-in meat thermometer for monitoring the temp without opening the door.

• Add extra roasting time if cooking from a frozen state.

• Tent the turkey with foil halfway through if browning too quickly.

• Carve the turkey and make gravy once resting is complete.

With the right prep, temperature, roasting time and resting, your 14 lb turkey will turn out perfectly cooked from edge to edge with crispy skin and succulent meat. Enjoy your masterfully roasted turkey!