Size of the bird. How many people are coming for dinner equals how many pounds you’ll need. If you want to be sure to have leftovers, multiply it by 1.5.
Cooktime. 10-13 mins./per pound for the turkey at 350℉/176℃. Allow about 15 minutesfor every pound if you want to stuff it. Takes about 30 mins. per pound if you smoke it at 250℉/120℃.
The best temperature. Preheating the oven to 450°F will keep the temperature from dropping too much when you open the door and put the turkey in. Reduce the temperature to 325°F after you close the door.
Fresh or FrozenIf I can get a freshturkey, that’s what I get. However, frozen is just as good. A fresh turkey should be prepared a day or two, at the most, after you get it home.
There you have it. I hope this turkey cheat sheet, will make the most out of your Thanksgiving Day celebration rather than worrying if the turkey is cooked through or not. Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!🙂