Lots of people get into trouble with their turkey cooking times after spending hours thawing and prepping the perfect bird. Make sure you're not one of those sad hosts serving up a dry bird by following these instructions:
Use a REAL meat thermometer: I cannot stress this enough. All cooking times you read on the web are estimates and the only fool-proof way to cook the perfect bird is with a good meat thermometer. So, get in your car and go buy one right now. Your Thanksgiving turkey is done when the meat thermometer in the thickest part of the turkey's thigh, reaches 180 degrees F.
Make sure you are aware of Turkey cooking time guidelines: I know I went on the meat thermometer rant but you should still heed the cooking time guidelines so you get your bird in at around the right time based on the size of your bird.
The approximate guidelines are as follows for your unstuffed Thanksgiving turkey at 325 degrees F:
6 to 8 pounds: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
8 to 12 pounds: 3 to 4 hours
12 to 16 pounds: 4 to 5 hours
16 to 20 pounds: 5 to 5-1/2 hours
20 to 24 pounds: 5-1/2 to 6 hours
If you are stuffing your turkey you should add 30-45 minutes cooking time. You will also need to use your meat thermometer to test the stuffing which is considered done at 165 degrees F.
Read more tips on cooking your thanksgiving bird. I also highly recommend the Butterball site. They are holding their Turkey Talk hotline and are a huge help! Call them at 1-800-BUTTERBALL if you are desperate.
*************************
More Thanksgiving Recipes:
Thanksgiving Menus Ideas: Turkey to Dessert
Stuffing & Cranberry Sauce Recipes
And join the Gather Family and Food Essentials to share your own Thanksgiving recipes, traditions, tips and tricks.
recommend
Facebook
Twitter
bookmark 
email
print
Comments: 3