Turkey Cooking Time

Don't be tempted to skip the resting time of 20-30 minutes after the turkey comes out of the oven. If you try and carve the bird before it's had a chance to stand, you'll find the meat tends to break up. Leaving the turkey covered, in a warm place lets the meat firm up and makes the job of carving neatly much easier.

All these serving sizes include ample allowance for leftovers, so you can enjoy your turkey cold the next day. For other Thanksgiving ideas, see Healthy Thanksgiving Recipes.

Go here, if you're not sure How To Cook A Turkey.

Remember that fan ovens can reduce cooking times, so make sure you check your bird as it cooks.

Check your turkey roasting time

• Preheat oven to 425F/220C/gas 7. Cook bird for 30 mins.
• Reduce heat to 325F/170C/gas 3 for 2.5 to 3 hours.
• Peel back foil from breast and allow bird to brown at 400F/200C/gas 6 for half an hour.
• Test that turkey is cooked through, remove from roasting tin and place on a board or platter. Leave to rest for 20-30 minutes before carving.

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Total time needed 4 hrs 45 mins
Turkey weight: 12-14lb (6-7kg)
Serves: 10 - 14

• Preheat oven to 425F/220C/gas 7. Cook turkey for 40 mins.
• Reduce heat to 325F/170C/gas 3 for 3.5 hrs.
• Peel back foil from breast and allow bird to brown at 400F/200C/gas 6 for 35 mins.
• Test that turkey is cooked through, remove from roasting tin and place on a board or platter. Leave to rest for 20-30 minutes before carving.

***

Total time needed 5 hrs 25 mins - 6 hrs 25 mins
Turkey weight: 15-20lb (7-9 kg)
Serves: 15 - 20

• Preheat oven to 425F/220C/gas 7. Cook turkey for 45 mins.
• Reduce heat to 325F/170C/gas 3 for 4-5 hrs.
• Peel back foil from breast and allow bird to brown at 400F/200C/gas 6 for 40 mins.
• Test that turkey is cooked through, remove from roasting tin and place on a board or platter. Leave to rest for 20-30 minutes before carving.

Use the correct turkey cooking time, and you'll end up with a bird that's moist, tender and delicious.

If you're wondering how to use up your turkey leftovers, have a look at our Leftover Turkey Recipes.