Calculate the perfect cooking time for your turkey based on weight, stuffing, and oven type. Never overcook or undercook your Christmas bird again.
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Include the weight of stuffing if applicable
Total Cooking Time
3 hrs 15 mins
Initial Temp
200°C
Reduce To
170°C
Serves
~10 people
Preheat your oven
Set your fan oven to 200°C. Remove the turkey from the fridge 30 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature.
Initial high-heat blast
Place the turkey in the oven at 200°C for the first 30 minutes. This helps crisp the skin.
Reduce temperature and cook
Lower the oven to 170°C and continue cooking for the remaining 2 hrs 45 mins. Baste every 45 minutes if desired.
Check internal temperature
Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh. It should read 74°C (165°F). If not, return to the oven and check every 15 minutes.
Rest before carving
Cover loosely with foil and rest for 45 minutes. This is essential for juicy meat. Use this time to make gravy and finish your sides.
Food Safety: Always use a meat thermometer to verify the internal temperature has reached 74°C. Cooking times are estimates and can vary depending on your oven, the shape of the bird, and starting temperature.
Not sure what size turkey you need? Use this guide to estimate based on the number of guests. As a rule of thumb, allow approximately 500g of whole turkey per person.
| Weight | Type | Serves |
|---|---|---|
| 2-3 kg | Small / Crown | 4-6 |
| 3-4 kg | Small Whole | 6-7 |
| 4-5 kg | Medium | 7-8 |
| 5-6 kg | Medium-Large | 8-10 |
| 6-7 kg | Large | 10-12 |
| 7-9 kg | Extra Large | 12-15 |
| 9-11 kg | Very Large | 15-20 |
Calculating the right cooking time is crucial for a delicious and safe holiday meal. This Calculator Site tool simplifies the process, but understanding the "why" behind the numbers can make you a better cook. The core calculation depends on the turkey's weight and your oven type. A general rule is about 35-40 minutes per kilogram, but factors like starting temperature and whether the bird is stuffed can change things significantly.
Our calculator uses the two-temperature method favoured by chefs. Starting hot (200-220°C) crisps the skin, then reducing the heat ensures the inside cooks evenly without drying out. For more tailored calculations for other festive meals, check out our Roast Beef Calculator.
Top Tip: Don't Cook a Cold Bird
Always let your turkey come to room temperature before roasting (about 30-60 minutes out of the fridge). A cold bird cooks unevenly, risking a dry exterior and undercooked interior. This single step dramatically improves your results.
Three elements are key to a successful roast: accurate temperature, proper resting, and food safety. While our calculator provides a reliable estimate, every oven and bird is different. For peace of mind, especially when planning a big meal with our Christmas Dinner Planner, internal temperature is the only true guarantee of doneness.
74°C
Safe Internal Temperature
30-60
Minutes Resting Time
+20min
Per kg if stuffed
How to use this Calculator Site tool
Simply enter the weight of your turkey in kilograms, select your oven type (fan or conventional), and tell us if it's stuffed. The calculator will instantly provide a step-by-step cooking schedule, including the crucial resting time. The results are your guide to a perfectly cooked turkey every time.
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