There are a lot of variables to consider when making a Thanksgiving turkey. For instance, you might be wondering how to thaw a turkey, what size turkey to buy, and even how to add flavor by seasoning the turkey and basting it while cooking. One of the most commonly asked questions surrounding the bird: How long does it take to cook a turkey?
With the battle for oven space being limited on Thanksgiving, its no wonder youre curious exactly when the stuffing will go in and the turkey will come out. It could make or break your detailed holiday cooking schedule, after all.
Thats why its important to get your turkeys cooking time right. Use this guide and there will be no guessing games on Thanksgiving Day. To determine the cook time, start with the size of the bird and whether or not its stuffed. (Fans of brined turkeys will also want to factor in an extra day, which is what The Pioneer Woman likes to do.)
The best thing you can do on Thanksgiving Day is plan ahead. Whether youre sticking to a classic roasted turkey or want to try something a little different this year (like Ree Drummonds gussied up bacon-wrapped bird), this helpful guide is here to make sure time is on your side. And no matter what, do like the pros and factor in resting time for your bird. Let the turkey rest for at least 30 minutes after cooking—longer is even better—so that the juices have time to redistribute for the juiciest meat possible.
Cooking a big bird like a 13 lb turkey can seem daunting, especially if you’re tackling it for the first time on Thanksgiving. With the entire feast relying on you, you’ll want to make sure that turkey comes out golden brown, tender and deliciously juicy.
The good news is that cooking a turkey is easier than you think if you follow a few simple guidelines. In this article we’ll explain exactly how long to cook a 13 lb turkey in the oven at 325°F to end up with a perfect centerpiece for your holiday table.
Overview of Cooking Times
The most important factor determining turkey cook time is the size and weight of your bird. General USDA guidelines for cooking an unstuffed turkey at 325°F are:
- 12 to 14 lb turkey: 3 to 3 3⁄4 hours
- 14 to 18 lb turkey: 3 3⁄4 to 4 1⁄4 hours
A 13 lb turkey falls right in the middle of that range, so you can expect your cook time to be around 3 1⁄2 to 4 hours
These times are based on a fully thawed turkey. A partially frozen bird will take much longer to roast. Be sure to allow proper thawing time before cooking day – never try to cook a frozen turkey!
Step-by-Step Roasting Process
Follow these simple steps for roasting success:
1. Thaw the Turkey
If frozen, thaw turkey in the fridge 24 hours per 4-5 lbs weight. Thaw breast side up in original wrapper to prevent cross-contamination. Drain juices periodically. Once thawed, pat turkey dry before seasoning.
2. Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 325°F. Lower temperatures are best for even roasting. Ensure no racks are above turkey to allow air circulation.
3. Prepare the Turkey
- Remove giblets and neck from cavities. Use for gravy or stock.
- Pat turkey dry inside and out with paper towels.
- Generously season all over with salt and pepper. Can also rub butter under skin.
- Lightly stuff cavity with aromatics like onions, herbs or lemon if desired. Don’t overstuff.
4. Position the Turkey
- Place breast side up on a rack in roasting pan.
- Tuck wings under to prevent burning.
- Loosely tent with foil to prevent overbrowning if needed.
5. Calculate Cook Time
For a 13 lb turkey, plan on roasting approximately 3 1⁄2 to 4 hours. Rely on a meat thermometer, not just cook time, to gauge doneness.
6. Baste and Tent Turkey
- Baste turkey with pan drippings every 30 minutes.
- If browning too fast, tent with foil and lower heat to 300°F.
7. Test for Doneness
Turkey is done when thigh meat is 165°F. Juices should run clear when pierced. Let rest 20-30 minutes before carving for juiciest meat.
8. Make Turkey Gravy
While turkey rests, make gravy from roasting pan drippings. Supplement with chicken or turkey stock if drippings are scant.
Helpful Turkey Roasting Tips
Keep these extra tips in mind:
- Cook times are approximate. Always use a meat thermometer to confirm doneness.
- If using pop-up timer, still check internal temp with thermometer. Pop-up can activate prematurely.
- Lower oven temp if turkey browns too fast. Tent with foil to prevent overcooking.
- Let turkey rest at least 20 mins before carving so juices redistribute.
- For food safety, cook stuffing in separate baking dish rather than turkey cavity.
Alternate Cooking Methods
While roasting is traditional, turkey can also be prepared using these techniques:
- Grill – Cook over indirect heat on a gas or charcoal grill. Spatchcock for quicker, even cooking.
- Smoke – Slow smoke seasoned turkey over indirect heat on a smoker for extra flavor.
- Fry – Submerge in peanut oil at 350-375°F for crispy skin and moist meat. Use turkey fryer outside only.
- Sous vide – Cook seasoned turkey in precisely temperature controlled water bath for super tender meat. Finish under broiler or on grill.
No matter which method you choose, following the guidelines above will help ensure roasted turkey success this Thanksgiving! With a perfectly cooked 13 lb golden bird as your holiday centerpiece, you’re sure to have a feast to remember.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I cook a stuffed 13 lb turkey?
For a stuffed 13 lb turkey, increase cook time by 15-30 minutes since the stuffing acts as an insulator slowing the cooking. Expect closer to 4 to 4 1⁄2 hours for a stuffed bird at 325°F.
Can I speed up the cook time at a higher temperature?
It’s not recommended. Higher temperatures can cause the turkey to brown too quickly on the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Stick with 325°F for the most even, gentle roasting.
My turkey is browning too fast. What should I do?
If your turkey skin is browning too quickly before the inside is done, loosely tent foil over the bird to shield it from direct heat. You can also reduce the oven temperature by 25°F.
Can I roast a partially frozen turkey?
Never roast a partially frozen or fully frozen turkey! Make sure it is completely thawed before cooking for food safety. Place in the fridge 1 day for every 4 lbs of weight to thaw.
How do I know when the turkey is done?
The best way to determine doneness is by using an instant read meat thermometer. Turkey is fully cooked when the thigh and breast meat reaches 165°F. If stuffing the turkey, stuffing must reach 165°F too.
How long should I let the turkey rest before carving?
Let the turkey rest at least 20 minutes after removing it from the oven before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute so your meat stays tender and moist. The internal temperature will continue rising about 5-10°F as well.
Can I make gravy ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare your turkey gravy 1-2 days in advance. Simply make the gravy as usual once the turkey is done, let it cool, and then refrigerate until ready to reheat and serve.
Following the roasting guidelines above will help ensure you end up with the perfect juicy, tender 13 lb turkey. Let us know if you have any other turkey cooking questions! We hope you enjoy a wonderful Thanksgiving feast.
Do You Cook a Turkey Longer if it Is Stuffed?
Yes, a stuffed turkey takes longer to cook than an unstuffed bird. The very center of the stuffing must register at least 165 degrees on an instant read thermometer to ensure that its cooked all the way through.
Your best bet? Cook the stuffing separately in a baking dish. This not only reduces the risk of cross contamination, but its also the only way to ensure the stuffing gets golden and slightly crisp on top. Of course, the holidays are all about honoring family traditions, so whether you stuff your bird or not is up to personal preference.
How Long It Takes to Cook a Turkey
Roasting times for the turkey will vary based on the size of the bird as well as whether its stuffed or unstuffed. As a general rule of thumb, plan on roasting your turkey for 15 to 20 minutes per pound—though to prevent undercooking or overcooking the bird, youll need to use a meat thermometer. The suggested cooking times below are for a turkey thats roasted at 325 degrees.
8 to 12 pounds: 2 3/4 to 3 hours
12 to 14 pounds: 3 to 3 3/4 hours
14 to 18 pounds: 3 3/4 to 4 1/4 hours
18 to 20 pounds: 4 1/4 to 4 1/2 hours
20 to 24 pounds 4 1/2 to 5 hours
8 to 12 pounds: 3 to 3 1/2 hours
12 to 14 pounds: 3 1/2 to 4 hours
14 to 18 pounds: 4 to 4 1/4 hours
18 to 20 pounds: 4 1/4 to 4 3/4 hours
20 to 24 pounds 4 3/4 to 5 1/4 hours