Turkey Cooking Times and Portions
Hosting a Thanksgiving dinner and not sure how to prepare? Don’t stress. Getting ready for the big holiday is easy with our turkey timing and portion guide.
what size turkey to buy
So you’ve invited your guests and definitely want some extra turkey for leftovers – see the chart below to make sure you buy the correct sized bird for your party. A general rule of thumb is 1 to 1 ½ pounds per guest.
See our H-E-B Turkey Selection Guide to learn more.
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No. of Guests
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Lbs. of Turkey
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7 to 9
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11 to 14
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10 to 12
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15 to 18
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12 to 14
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18 to 24
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how long to thaw your turkey
Want to save a little money and have several days before the big meal? Frozen is the way to go.
Pro Tip: Place your packaged turkey on a tray to catch any juices and then set on the lowest shelf of the refrigerator. Allow 24 hours for every 4 pounds of meat.
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Lbs. of Turkey
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No. of Days
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4 to 12
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1 to 3 days
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12 to 16
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3 to 4
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16 to 20
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4 to 5
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20 to 24
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5 to 6
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how long to roast your turkey
Use the chart below to plan the best time to put an unstuffed turkey in the oven at 325°F. Add 15-30 minutes for stuffed birds. The turkey is done when a meat thermometer reads 165°F in all areas, including stuffing. For a moister meal, allow turkey to rest for 20 – 30 minutes before carving.
Pro Tip: Use a foil tent to prevent excess browning. Remove foil 45 minutes before end of suggested roasting time.
| Turkey Roasting Times | |
|---|---|
| Turkey Weight (lbs) | Approximate Cooking Time (325°F)* |
| 9 to 11 | 3 hours |
| 12 to 14 | 3 1/2 hours |
| 15 to 17 | 4 hours |
| 18 to 20 | 4 1/2 hours |
| 21 to 23 | 5 hours |
| 24+ | 5+ hours |
Although roasting is the traditional option, it’s not the only one. See full list of turkey recipes.
How to Make Bourbon Smoked Turkey
Watch how to brine and smoke a turkey Texas style--Bourbon Smoked Turkey.
Creative Meal Ideas for Turkey Leftovers
Our H-E-B Chefs are here to help you reinvent leftover turkey into unique and tasty meals to enjoy days after the holiday.Turkey Banh Mi Sandwich Recipe
How to Carve a Turkey
H-E-B Chef Brent demonstrates the best way to carve and plate a turkey. Watch this step by step video and get a recipe for jalapeno cranberry relish to serve with your turkey.