Cooking a 20-pound turkey with stuffing is a significant culinary undertaking and requires careful planning to ensure it is cooked safely and thoroughly. The cooking time will depend on various factors, including the oven temperature, stuffing type, and desired doneness.
As a general rule of thumb, the USDA recommends roasting a stuffed turkey at an oven temperature of 325°F (163°C). The estimated cooking time for a stuffed turkey is about 20 minutes per pound. Therefore, a 20-pound stuffed turkey could take approximately 6.5 to 7 hours to cook.
It is crucial to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of both the turkey and the stuffing to ensure they reach safe levels. The turkey's thickest part, without touching the bone, should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and the stuffing should also reach the same temperature.
To avoid overcooking the turkey, you can start checking the temperature about 30-45 minutes before the estimated cooking time is up. The cooking time can also be affected by the turkey's shape, the type of roasting pan used, and how many times you open the oven door during cooking, as it can cause heat loss and affect the overall cooking time.
Remember that food safety is essential when cooking a large bird like a turkey. Properly cooked poultry is critical to avoid foodborne illnesses. Therefore, using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure your turkey is safe and perfectly cooked. Always follow guidelines from reputable sources like the USDA or your country's food safety authority for best results.