Start by letting your turkey sit at room temperature for about an hour before roasting. This helps it cook evenly—think of it as waking up your bird gently, not shocking it with a cold shower. Preheat your oven to 325°F and stuff the cavity loosely, because stuffing expands like a good mood.
Roast uncovered for the first hour, then tent the breast with foil if it’s browning too fast. I use the “looks like a golden brown sofa cushion” test for doneness, but a thermometer is way more reliable. Start checking the internal temperature around the 2.5-hour mark.
The glorious moment of truth
When the thigh hits 165°F and the stuffing reads the same, you are officially a hero. Pull the bird out and let it rest for at least 30 minutes before carving. This is not a suggestion—it’s a rule. Resting lets the juices redistribute so your meat doesn’t end up dry and sad.
Stuffed Turkey Oven Temperature Chart How Long To Cook A Stuffed
I like to use those 30 minutes to make gravy, pour a glass of wine, and admire my handiwork. Your family might hover like seagulls at the beach, but hold the line. A rested turkey is a happy turkey.