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Butterball Cooking Guideline:
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The Butterball turkey cooking time guideline provides recommended cooking times based on the weight of your turkey and whether it's stuffed or unstuffed. Following these guidelines helps ensure your turkey is cooked safely and thoroughly.
The calculator uses the Butterball recommended cooking times:
Where:
Explanation: The calculation accounts for the additional time needed to cook through stuffing and ensures the turkey reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
Details: Proper cooking time is crucial for food safety (to eliminate harmful bacteria) and for quality (to ensure moist, tender meat). Undercooked turkey can cause foodborne illness.
Tips: Enter the turkey weight in pounds (including any stuffing weight if applicable) and select whether the turkey is stuffed or unstuffed. Always use a meat thermometer to verify the internal temperature reaches 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh.
Q1: Why different times for stuffed vs. unstuffed?
A: The stuffing acts as insulation and requires additional time to reach a safe temperature throughout.
Q2: Should I cook at 325°F or 350°F?
A: Butterball recommends roasting at 325°F. Higher temperatures may dry out the breast meat before the thighs are fully cooked.
Q3: When should I start checking the temperature?
A: Start checking about 30 minutes before the estimated finish time. Actual cooking times may vary based on your oven, roasting pan, and turkey shape.
Q4: Are there exceptions to these guidelines?
A: Yes, for turkeys over 20 pounds, the minutes-per-pound may decrease slightly. Always rely on internal temperature rather than time alone.
Q5: How should I prepare the turkey before cooking?
A: Remove giblets, pat dry, and tuck wing tips under. You may brush with oil or butter. Do not stuff the turkey until just before roasting.