How Long to Cook a Turkey in an Electric Roaster
The cook time for a whole turkey in an electric roaster will vary depending on the size of the turkey, ranging from 2 ½ hours for the smallest birds to 5 ½ hours or more for the largest ones.
When you're using an electric roaster to cook a turkey, start by roasting the bird at 500 degrees for a half-hour, then drop the heat to 325 degrees for the rest of the cooking time.
Weight |
Roasting Time (Including 30 Minutes at 500°) |
8 pounds |
2 hours 30 minutes |
9 pounds |
2 hours 45 minutes |
10 pounds |
3 hours |
11 pounds |
3 hours 15 minutes |
12 pounds |
3 hours 30 minutes |
13 pounds |
3 hours 45 minutes |
14 pounds |
4 hours |
15 pounds |
4 hours 15 minutes |
16 pounds |
4 hours 30 minutes |
17 pounds |
4 hours 45 minutes |
18 pounds |
5 hours |
19 pounds |
5 hours 15 minutes |
20 pounds |
5 hours 30 minutes |
These estimates are based on cooking an unstuffed turkey; if you're roasting a stuffed turkey, allow at least 15-30 minutes longer. Be sure to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the turkey's internal temperature has reached at least 165 degrees prior to eating.
If You Don't Have an Electric Roaster, Try This Oven-Roasted Turkey Recipe