When it comes to cooking a delicious Butterball turkey, knowing the appropriate cooking time is crucial. The cooking time for a Butterball turkey is determined by its weight. Cooking a turkey too long may result in a dry and overcooked bird, while not cooking it long enough may lead to undercooked and unsafe meat.

So, how long should you cook a Butterball turkey per pound? According to Butterball’s official guidelines, you should cook a Butterball turkey in an oven set to 325°F (165°C) for 20 minutes per pound. This recommended cooking time is based on a stuffed turkey cooked in a conventional oven, not a deep fryer or other cooking methods.

For example, if you have a 15-pound Butterball turkey, you would cook it for approximately 5 hours. 15 pounds multiplied by 20 minutes per pound equals 300 minutes, which is equivalent to 5 hours.

It’s important to note that these guidelines are just a general estimate. The best way to ensure your turkey is fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. When the thickest part of the turkey’s thigh reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), it is safe to eat. Additionally, be sure to let the turkey rest for 15-20 minutes before carving to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

Remember, cooking times may vary depending on whether the turkey is stuffed or unstuffed and the accuracy of your oven’s temperature. Always follow the instructions provided by Butterball or consult a reliable source for exact cooking times to achieve the best results for your Butterball turkey!

How to Cook a Butterball Turkey Per Pound: A Complete Guide

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Cooking a Butterball turkey is a delicious way to celebrate the holiday season. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a novice in the kitchen, this complete guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how long to cook your Butterball turkey per pound.

Preparation

Before you begin cooking your Butterball turkey, there are a few necessary steps to ensure a tasty and safe meal. First, make sure your turkey is fully thawed if you purchased a frozen one. Allow your turkey to thaw in the refrigerator for about 24 hours per 4 pounds of bird. Next, remove the giblets and neck from the turkey cavity. Rinse the turkey with cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Finally, let the turkey sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour before cooking.

Cooking Time

The general rule of thumb is to cook your Butterball turkey at 325°F (165°C) oven temperature. The cooking time for a Butterball turkey varies based on the weight of the bird. Here’s a simple guide:

  • 8-12 pounds: 2.75-3 hours
  • 12-16 pounds: 3-3.75 hours
  • 16-20 pounds: 3.75-4.5 hours
  • 20-24 pounds: 4.5-5.25 hours
  • 24-28 pounds: 5.25-6 hours

These cooking times are estimates, so it’s important to use a meat thermometer to ensure your turkey is fully cooked. Insert the meat thermometer into the thickest part of the turkey thigh without touching the bone. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat.

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Additional Tips

To enhance the flavor of your Butterball turkey, consider seasoning it with your favorite herbs and spices. You can also baste the turkey with its own juices or butter during the cooking process to keep it moist. Tent the turkey with aluminum foil if it starts to brown too quickly. Let the cooked turkey rest for about 15-20 minutes before carving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Cooking a Butterball turkey per pound is a straightforward process when you follow these guidelines. With a little preparation and careful cooking, you’ll have a deliciously moist turkey that everyone will enjoy. Happy cooking!

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Preparing Your Butterball Turkey

When it comes to preparing your Butterball turkey, there are a few important steps to follow to ensure a delicious and perfectly cooked bird.

Thawing

If you have a frozen Butterball turkey, it is crucial to thaw it properly before cooking. The recommended method is to thaw your turkey in the refrigerator. Allow approximately 24 hours of thawing time for every 4-5 pounds of turkey. Be sure to keep the turkey in its original packaging and place it on a tray or in a shallow pan to catch any drips.

Preparation

Before cooking your Butterball turkey, make sure to remove the neck and giblets from the body cavity if they are included. Rinse the turkey inside and out with cold water and pat dry with paper towels. It is important to handle raw turkey with caution to prevent any potential contamination.

Seasoning

Seasoning your Butterball turkey is a personal preference, but some popular options include using salt, pepper, garlic powder, and herbs like rosemary and thyme. Be sure to season both the inside and outside of the turkey for maximum flavor.

Cooking

When it comes to cooking a Butterball turkey, the general rule of thumb is to cook it at 325°F. The cooking time will vary depending on the size of the turkey. The recommended cooking time is approximately 15 minutes per pound for an unstuffed turkey and 20 minutes per pound for a stuffed turkey.

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Using a Meat Thermometer

To ensure that your Butterball turkey is cooked to perfection, it is highly recommended to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the turkey’s thigh without touching the bone. The internal temperature should reach 165°F for both stuffed and unstuffed turkeys.

Resting

After cooking, it is important to let your Butterball turkey rest for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful turkey.

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By following these steps, you can ensure that your Butterball turkey turns out moist, flavorful, and cooked to perfection every time!

Calculating Cooking Time Based on Weight

When it comes to cooking a Butterball turkey, the cooking time can vary depending on the weight of the bird. To ensure that your turkey is cooked to perfection, it is important to calculate the cooking time correctly.

Here is a general guideline for calculating cooking time based on the weight of your Butterball turkey:

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Weight of Turkey (in pounds) Cooking Time (unstuffed) Cooking Time (stuffed)
10-12 2.75-3 hours 3-3.5 hours
12-14 3-3.75 hours 3.5-4 hours
14-18 3.75-4.25 hours 4-4.5 hours
18-20 4.25-4.5 hours 4.5-5 hours
20-24 4.5-5 hours 5-5.5 hours

These cooking times are based on roasting the turkey at a temperature of 325°F (163°C). It is important to note that stuffed turkeys will take longer to cook compared to unstuffed turkeys, as the stuffing needs to reach a safe internal temperature as well.

Remember to always use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey. The turkey is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh and the stuffing.

By following these guidelines and ensuring the turkey reaches the appropriate internal temperature, you can confidently cook your Butterball turkey to perfection!

Roasting Your Butterball Turkey

Roasting a Butterball turkey is a classic and delicious way to prepare this popular holiday dish. Whether you are hosting Thanksgiving or simply want to enjoy a turkey dinner, following these simple steps will ensure that your Butterball turkey is cooked to perfection.

1. Preheat your oven: Before you begin roasting your Butterball turkey, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This is the recommended temperature for cooking a whole turkey.

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2. Prepare the turkey: Remove the packaging from your Butterball turkey and take out the neck and giblets from the cavity. Rinse the turkey inside and out with cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.

3. Season the turkey: Rub olive oil or melted butter all over the skin of the turkey to help it brown and keep it moist. Season the turkey with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices that you prefer.

4. Roasting time: The general rule of thumb for cooking a Butterball turkey is to roast it for 10 minutes per pound. For example, a 12-pound turkey should be roasted for approximately 2 hours.

5. Use a meat thermometer: To ensure that your Butterball turkey is cooked thoroughly and reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the turkey’s thigh, without touching the bone.

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6. Basting the turkey: To keep your Butterball turkey moist and flavorful, baste it every 30 minutes with the juices that collect at the bottom of the roasting pan. This will help to maintain the turkey’s moisture and enhance its flavor.

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7. Let it rest: Once your Butterball turkey reaches the desired internal temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 15-20 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the turkey, resulting in a more moist and tender bird.

8. Carve and serve: Once your Butterball turkey has rested, it’s time to carve and serve it to your guests. Remember to use a sharp carving knife and serve the turkey with your favorite side dishes and gravy.

Roasting a Butterball turkey is a time-honored tradition that brings families and friends together. With these simple steps, you can create a delicious and moist turkey that will be the centerpiece of your holiday table.

Questions and answers

How long should I cook a Butterball turkey per pound?

The general rule for cooking a Butterball turkey is to cook it for 10 minutes per pound at 325 degrees Fahrenheit.

What is the recommended cooking time for a Butterball turkey?

The recommended cooking time for a Butterball turkey is 10 minutes per pound at 325 degrees Fahrenheit.

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How do I calculate the cooking time for a Butterball turkey?

You can calculate the cooking time for a Buterball turkey by multiplying the weight in pounds by 10 and then converting that number into minutes. For example, if you have a 15-pound turkey, the cooking time would be 150 minutes (15 x 10 = 150).

Is there a cooking chart for Butterball turkeys?

Yes, Butterball provides a cooking chart on their website that includes recommended cooking times based on the weight of the turkey. It’s always a good idea to refer to the chart for specific cooking times.

Can I cook a Butterball turkey for a shorter amount of time?

While the recommended cooking time for a Butterball turkey is 10 minutes per pound, you can cook it for a shorter amount of time if you prefer. However, it’s important to ensure that the internal temperature reaches a safe minimum of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

How long should I cook a Butterball turkey per pound?

For a Butterball turkey, the general rule is to cook it for 10-15 minutes per pound at 325°F (163°C). So, if you have a 14-pound turkey, you would cook it for approximately 2 hours and 20-30 minutes.

I have a 20-pound Butterball turkey, how long will it take to cook?

If you have a 20-pound Butterball turkey, you would cook it for approximately 3 hours and 20-30 minutes at 325°F (163°C). It is important to use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the turkey reaches 165°F (74°C) before removing it from the oven.