How long to cook a 22 pound turkey stuffed

If this is the first year you are the host for Thanksgiving, you probably have a host of questions. At the top of the list of turkey questions we can answer: turkey cooking times. Because turkey cooking times are dependent on many variables, we have a lot of information for you. You’re sure to find the combination of factors that will lead you to the turkey cooking times you’re looking for. And all those other questions? Check out all of our other articles with Thanksgiving help.

The first thing to consider when planning when to put the turkey in the oven is the stuffing. A stuffed turkey takes longer to cook than an unstuffed turkey. Assuming you are roasting your turkey in a 325°F oven, plan on 15 to 17 minutes of cooking time for each pound of an unstuffed turkey. Plan on 20 to 22 minutes per pound for a stuffed turkey.

What that means on the real world of your kitchen is this for an unstuffed turkey:

Keep in mind that the times are approximate. The best way to know when your turkey is cooked is to take its temperature with either a quick-read thermometer or a meat thermometer. When the thermometer is inserted into the thickest part of the thigh but not touching the bone, the turkey is done when the temp reaches 180°F. in addition, the thigh and drumstick meat should feel soft when pressed, and when the thigh is pierced with a fork the juices should run clear, not pink. If you have stuffed the turkey, be sure to check the temp on the stuffing, too. It should register 165°F in the center.

All of the above information is for a standard oven. If you are using a convection oven, be sure to check the temperature of your turkey an hour before the recommended time: It will cook faster, and you don’t want an overcooked bird.

Prep: 20 min. Bake: 3-3/4 hours + standing

12 servings (10 cups stuffing)

For years, my mother has made this moist stuffed turkey recipe. Now, I do the same thing. The turkey stuffing nicely compliments the tender, juicy slices of oven-roasted turkey. —Kathi Graham, Naperville, Illinois

Ingredients

• 2 large onions, chopped
• 2 celery ribs, chopped
• 1/2 pound fresh mushrooms, sliced
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1 can (14-1/2 ounces) chicken broth
• 1/3 cup minced fresh parsley
• 2 teaspoons rubbed sage
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 12 cups unseasoned stuffing cubes
• Warm water
• 1 turkey (14 to 16 pounds)
• Melted butter

Directions

1. In a large skillet, saute the onions, celery and mushrooms in butter until tender. Add broth and seasonings; mix well. Place bread cubes in a large bowl; add mushroom mixture and toss to coat. Stir in enough warm water to reach desired moistness.
2. Just before baking, loosely stuff turkey. Place any remaining stuffing in a greased baking dish; cover and refrigerate until ready to bake. Skewer turkey openings; tie drumsticks together with kitchen string. Place breast side up on a rack in a roasting pan. Brush with melted butter.
3. Bake turkey, uncovered, at 325° for 3-3/4 to 4-1/2 hours or until a thermometer reads 165° when inserted in center of stuffing and the thigh reaches at least 170°, basting occasionally with pan drippings. (Cover loosely with foil if turkey browns too quickly.)
4. Bake additional stuffing, covered, for 30-40 minutes. Uncover; bake 10 minutes longer or until lightly browned. Cover turkey with foil and let stand for 20 minutes before removing stuffing and carving. If desired, thicken pan drippings for gravy.

Stuffed Turkey Recipe Tips

How can I cook a stuffed turkey safely?

To cook a stuffed turkey safely, the stuffing must reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees to prevent the risk of bacteria growth. We don't typically recommend cooking stuffing inside a turkey because it can dry out your bird. If you want to go the stuffed route, this is the recipe we'd recommend making. If not, cook your turkey and stuffing separately.

What can you put inside a turkey besides stuffing?

There are plenty of other things to put inside a turkey besides stuffing! We love to add aromatics to the turkey cavity. Some great options are onions, carrots, celery and herbs (rosemary, thyme and sage will do the trick). Don't forget to season the cavity with salt and pepper, too.

How do I make my own stuffing cubes?

Making stuffing cubes is as easy as making homemade croutons! Simply cube the bread, place it in a single layer on a baking sheet and lightly toast at 225 to 250 degrees for about an hour. Turn the cubes occasionally for even toasting.

How can I make the stuffing my own?

To make this stuffing your own, try adding fun mix-ins like pecans, sausage, bacon and dried cranberries.

How do I make gravy with drippings?

Research contributed by Christina Herbst, Taste of Home Assistant Digital Editor, and Josh Rink, Taste of Home Food Stylist

<B>Editor's Note:</B> Stuffing may be prepared as directed and baked separately in a 3-qt. baking dish. Cover and bake at 325&deg; for 30 minutes; uncover and bake 10 minutes longer or until heated through and lightly browned.

Nutrition Facts

1 each: 571 calories, 26g fat (11g saturated fat), 153mg cholesterol, 961mg sodium, 42g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 4g fiber), 44g protein.

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