How Long Does It Take to Cook a Turkey at 250 Degrees?

Roasting a juicy, flavorful turkey is the highlight of many holiday meals While high heat helps crisp the skin, cooking the bird at a lower 250°F oven temperature results in incredibly tender and moist meat. But exactly how long does it take to cook a turkey at 250 degrees?

The total roasting time depends on several factors like turkey size, whether it is stuffed or unstuffed, and if it’s fully thawed Follow this guide to determine the perfect timeline for slow roasting your turkey at a low heat

Overview of Low Temperature Turkey Cooking

Cooking the turkey low and slow offers many advantages:

• Prevents overcooking and drying out the breast meat
• Allows time for the collagen to break down for tender, succulent meat
• Provides more even heating throughout the turkey
• Gives you flexibility if the turkey needs more time

The tradeoff is that it takes longer to cook at only 250°F compared to the standard 325-350°F. But the total roasting time gives you incredibly moist, flavorful results.

Calculating Roast Times at 250°F

The general timeframe for roasting a turkey at 250°F is approximately 30 minutes per pound. But consider these factors:

Turkey Weight

• Small turkeys (10-15 lbs) take 2.5-4.5 hours
• Larger turkeys (18-22 lbs) take 5.5-7.5+ hours

Frozen vs. Thawed

• Fully thawed turkeys cook faster
• Frozen adds 50% or more to the timeline

Stuffed vs Unstuffed

• Stuffing adds density and increases cook time
• Add 30-45 minutes if stuffed

Oven Accuracy

• Confirm temperature with an oven thermometer
• Time varies if oven runs hot or cold

For the most accurate timing, weigh your turkey and calculate the minimum and maximum cook times. Monitor temperature with a meat thermometer as you get close to the window.

Step-by-Step Guide for Roasting at 250°F

Follow these steps for perfectly cooked turkey at a low 250°F oven temperature:

1. Thaw completely in the refrigerator 1-2 days before roasting.

2. Remove giblets and neck from cavities. Rinse turkey and pat dry.

3. Prepare aromatics like onion, garlic, herbs, citrus to place in cavity. Truss turkey.

4. Place turkey breast up on a rack in a roasting pan. Scatter more aromatics in bottom of pan.

5. Calculate cook time based on weight, allowing 30 minutes per pound. Preheat oven to 250°F.

6. Roast turkey tenting with foil if browning too quickly, until minimum cook time.

7. Check internal temp, especially in breast and thighs. Turkey is done at 165°F breast, 175°F thighs.

8. Let turkey rest 30 minutes before carving for juicy meat. Use drippings for gravy.

Monitoring Doneness

Rely on a meat thermometer, not just cook times, to determine when the turkey is finished. Ideal final temperatures are:

• 165°F in the thickest part of the breast
• 175°F in the innermost thigh near the bone

If the turkey seems undercooked based on the timeline, continue roasting and monitoring the temperature every 15 minutes until it’s ready.

FAQs About Roasting at 250°F

What if my turkey is only partially thawed?

Do not attempt to roast a partially frozen turkey! Make sure it is completely thawed in the fridge 1-2 days before cooking.

Should I tent the turkey with foil while roasting?

Yes, tenting loosely with foil prevents the skin from over-browning before the interior cooks through. Check periodically.

How often should I baste the turkey?

Baste every 45-60 minutes to prevent drying out. Avoid opening the oven too frequently which slows cooking.

What if my turkey finishes early?

If the turkey reaches 165°F in the breast sooner than estimated, tent with foil and turn off oven. Let rest in oven 30 mins before removing.

Can I roast at 250°F if my turkey is stuffed?

Yes, but add 30-45 minutes to the estimated cooking time if stuffed. The extra density increases the time required.

The Takeaway

Allowing ample time for low temperature roasting is key to incredibly moist, tender turkey. Figure approximately 30 minutes per pound when cooking at 250°F. Thaw fully, weigh your bird, calculate minimum and maximum times, and use a meat thermometer to determine perfect doneness. Your patience will be rewarded with the juiciest holiday turkey!