Cooking times for a frozen whole turkey can vary depending on its weight and the temperature of the oven. The following are general guidelines for cooking a frozen turkey in a conventional oven set at 325°F (163°C):
Thawing: It is highly recommended to thaw the turkey before cooking for even and safe cooking. Thawing times can vary based on the size of the turkey. The safest method for thawing a turkey is to do so in the refrigerator. Allow approximately 24 hours of thawing time for every 4-5 pounds (1.8-2.3 kg) of turkey. For example, a 12-pound (5.4 kg) frozen turkey would require approximately 3 days to thaw in the refrigerator.
Cooking: Once the turkey is thawed, you can proceed with cooking it in the oven. As a general guideline, calculate about 15-20 minutes of cooking time per pound (0.45 kg) of turkey. However, it's important to use a meat thermometer to determine the turkey's internal temperature for proper doneness.
Internal Temperature: The turkey should reach a minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh and the center of the stuffing (if applicable). Insert the meat thermometer into these areas to ensure they reach the recommended temperature.
To estimate the overall cooking time for a frozen whole turkey, you can use the following formula:
Total cooking time (in minutes) = Weight of the turkey (in pounds) x 15-20 minutes per pound
Remember that these are general guidelines, and factors such as oven variations, turkey shape, and stuffing can affect cooking times. It's always best to rely on a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey is thoroughly cooked and safe to eat.