How Long to Cook a Turkey at 250 Degrees for Perfectly Juicy Results

Cooking up a delicious Thanksgiving turkey is a cherished tradition for many families. While there are several methods for roasting a turkey, using a low and slow technique at 250°F produces incredibly moist, tender and flavorful results. But exactly how long should you cook your turkey at this temperature? Let’s break down the timing and technique for slow roasting turkey perfection.

Why Cook at 250°F?

Typically, recipes call for roasting turkey at temperatures from 325°F to 350°F. However using a lower 250°F oven temp provides some major advantages

• Gentle, even cooking – The turkey roasts slowly, allowing heat to fully penetrate the meat. No hot or cold spots.

• Maximized moisture – The lower heat prevents the turkey breast meat from drying out. Skin crisps up at the end.

• Smoother gravy – Turkey juices don’t burn at low temp, making gravy rich and delicious.

• Room for error – More leeway in cook times. Less likely to overcook and dry out the bird.

Cooking turkey low and slow at 250°F gives you the most tender, juicy and flavorful meat possible. Now let’s look at timing.

Calculating Cook Time at 250°F

The general guideline for roasting turkey at 250°F is to calculate 15-20 minutes per pound. But cook times can vary a bit depending on:

• Turkey size – A 20 lb turkey takes more time than a 12 lb turkey.

• Thawed vs. frozen – Fully thaw turkey in fridge 1-2 days before cooking.

• Unstuffed vs. stuffed – Stuffed turkey may need 30-45 mins extra time.

• Oven accuracy – Confirm temp with an oven thermometer.

Use these tips to estimate cook time:

• Calculate 15 minutes per lb for minimum cook time.

• Calculate 20 minutes per lb for maximum cook time.

• Actual time will be somewhere in between.

Turkey Cook Times at 250°F

Here are approximate turkey cook times at 250°F:

• 10 lb turkey: 2.5 – 3 hours
• 12 lb turkey: 3 – 3.5 hours
• 14 lb turkey: 3.5 – 4 hours
• 16 lb turkey: 4 – 4.5 hours
• 18 lb turkey: 4.5 – 5 hours
• 20 lb turkey: 5 – 6 hours

Cook until the breast temp reaches 165°F and thighs reach 175°F. Let rest 30 minutes before carving.

Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these simple steps for perfect turkey at 250°F:

• Thaw – Thaw turkey completely in fridge 1-2 days before cooking.

• Prep – Remove giblets. Rinse turkey and pat dry.

• Season – Rub skin with oil or butter. Sprinkle with herbs and spices.

• Roast – Place turkey on a rack in roasting pan at 250°F, breast up.

• Baste – Baste turkey with pan drippings every 45 mins – 1 hour.

• Check Temp – Monitor temperature after minimum cook time.

• Rest – Remove turkey from oven and let rest 30 mins before carving.

• Make Gravy – Use pan drippings to make gravy.

Turkey Roasting Tips

Follow these tips for best results:

• Brine turkey 1-2 days before for added moisture and flavor.

• Use a meat thermometer to monitor breast and thigh temp.

• Baste with broth or butter every 45-60 minutes for maximum juiciness.

• Add veggies like onions, carrots and celery to the roasting pan.

• Tent turkey at end if skin is getting too brown.

• Let turkey rest at least 30 minutes before slicing for juicy meat.

Get Perfectly Cooked Turkey at 250°F

Cooking turkey low and slow at 250°F delivers incredibly tender, juicy and delicious results. With proper thawing, seasoning and calculating cook times based on weight, you’ll get phenomenal turkey every time. Monitor the temperature and baste frequently for best flavor. Follow this simple guide for your best turkey yet.