How long to cook a turkey

3 Responses for "How long to cook a turkey"

1. Deb Martin November 6th, 2008 at 1:49 pm

   question: I need to cook two 11-12 lb stuffed turkeys at same time in one oven this year. do I follow cooking time for turkey by total lbs (i.e. 22-24) in the oven or by individual size of turkeys (i.e. 11-12 lbs)? or do I just have to go by the temperature on a meat thermometer?
   Help please.

2. Chef Robyn November 27th, 2008 at 9:40 am

   When cooking two turkeys, place them in the oven, but allow some space between the two birds. So, that they are not overlapping.
   Then cook as you would a 12 lb turkey. 3- 3 ½ hours. OR
   Until your meat thermometer reads 165+.

3. Jenn Beisser November 27th, 2008 at 9:41 am

   Hi Deb,
   You will want space between the bird so air and heat can circulate. If you are not using a rack, then make a thick coil of aluminum foil and place the bird on that in your pan(s) Your two turkeys will cook in roughly the same time as a single turkey - but allow an extra 20-30 minutes. Most definately use your meat thermometer and remove when the breast is 160-165 and thigh is 170-175. The stuffing must reach 165 degrees internal temperature to be safe to serve. Do you best to keep your oven closed for the duration! And have a great Thanksgiving.