So, to answer the headline: a 20-pound stuffed turkey cooks for roughly 4.5 to 5 hours at 325°F, plus resting time. But remember, every oven is a little off-key. Use your thermometer, trust your nose, and relax.
Here’s a fun comparison: this process is like planning a road trip. You know the total distance (4.5 hours), but you’ll stop for gas (check temps), and maybe take a scenic detour (stuffing adjustment). The destination? Perfect, juicy turkey.
Seriously, you’ve got this. The biggest secret is staying chill, keeping a steady oven, and not opening the door every five minutes. Resist the urge. Let the heat do its thing.
And when that first forkful hits your mouth—moist, flavorful, with stuffing that’s both safe and fantastic—you’ll realize: all that waiting was absolutely worth it. Now go preheat that oven. Your turkey is waiting.