Work out how long to cook a turkey on the day before you cook, then plan your timetable around your turkey recipe, working backwards from when you want to serve a meal.
Start your cooking time to allow the cooked turkey to have at least 20 minutes to rest before you carve. This lets the flesh re-absorb the juices, and makes the bird easier to carve. Remove the roasted turkey from the pan, place it on a board and cover with a clean tea towel. It will stay hot for at least half an hour.
This roast turkey recipe suggests that you rub the turkey with softened butter and wrap in foil for most of the cooking time. Cooking begins with a short blast of heat, then there’s a longer period at a lower heat, and then you should tear off the foil over the breast and finish cooking at a higher temperature.
Enjoy your turkey! And when the feasting's over, remember to check out Leftover Turkey Recipes, for delicious turkey soups, sandwiches and salads.
How long to cook a turkey
If you use a fan oven your turkey may cook more quickly, so keep a careful check on how it's progressing.
Weight: 8-10lb (3.5-4.5 kg) - serves 6-10 people, with leftovers
Start at 425F/220C/gas 7 for 30 mins
Turn oven down to 325F/170C/gas 3 and cook for 2.5 - 3 hours
Remove foil and brown at 400F/200C/gas 6 for 30 min Weight: 12-14lb (6-7kg) - serves 10 - 14 people, with leftovers
Start at 425F/220C/gas 7 for 40 min
Turn oven down to 325F/170C/gas 3 and cook for 3.5 hrs
Remove foil and brown at 400F/200C/gas 6 for 35 min
Weight: 15-20lb (7-9 kg) serves 15 - 20 people, with leftovers
Start at 425F/220C/gas 7 for 45 mins
Turn oven down to 325F/170C/gas 3 and cook for 4-5 hours
Remove foil and brown at 400F/200C/gas 6 for 40 min
