How Long to Cook a 12-Pound Stuffed Turkey

Cooking a 12-pound stuffed turkey can be a daunting task, especially if you’re not sure how long it should be in the oven. The cooking time for a turkey can vary depending on several factors, such as the turkey’s stuffing, the oven temperature, and the method of cooking. In this article, we will discuss how long to cook a 12-pound stuffed turkey, as well as some tips to ensure that your turkey is perfectly cooked and juicy.

Factors Affecting Cooking Time

Before we dive into the cooking time, it’s essential to consider the following factors that can affect the cooking time for a 12-pound stuffed turkey:

1. Turkey’s stuffing: If your turkey is stuffed, the cooking time will be longer than if it’s not. The stuffing needs to reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to prevent foodborne illness.
2. Oven temperature: The recommended oven temperature for roasting a turkey is between 325°F (163°C) and 350°F (177°C). Cooking at a lower temperature will require a longer cooking time, while cooking at a higher temperature will reduce the cooking time.
3. Method of cooking: There are different methods to cook a turkey, such as roasting, brining, or smoking. Each method has its own cooking time, so it’s essential to choose the right one for your turkey.

How Long to Cook a 12-Pound Stuffed Turkey

Now that we’ve discussed the factors affecting cooking time, let’s determine how long to cook a 12-pound stuffed turkey:

1. Unstuffed turkey: If your turkey is not stuffed, the cooking time will be approximately 2.5 to 3 hours per pound. Therefore, a 12-pound unstuffed turkey will take about 30 to 36 hours to cook.
2. Stuffed turkey: If your turkey is stuffed, the cooking time will be approximately 2.8 to 3.25 hours per pound. Thus, a 12-pound stuffed turkey will take about 33.6 to 39 hours to cook.

Important Tips for Cooking a Stuffed Turkey

To ensure that your 12-pound stuffed turkey is perfectly cooked and juicy, follow these important tips:

1. Preheat your oven to the recommended temperature (325°F to 350°F) before placing the turkey inside.
2. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey. The turkey is safe to eat when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast and 180°F (82°C) in the thigh.
3. Baste the turkey with its own juices or a mixture of butter and broth every 30 minutes to keep it moist.
4. Avoid opening the oven door too often, as it can cause the temperature to drop and extend the cooking time.
5. Allow the turkey to rest for about 20 minutes before carving to ensure that the juices redistribute and the meat is tender.

By following these guidelines, you can enjoy a delicious, perfectly cooked 12-pound stuffed turkey that will impress your family and friends.