Terrific Turkey Recipes

It all starts here. Pick well, my friends!

More Turkey Recipes

Turkey Roasting Times*

WeightUnstuffedStuffed
8 – 10 lbs.2 3/4 to 3 hours3 to 3 1/2 hours
12 -14 lbs3 to 3/4 hours3 1/2 to 4 hours
14 -16 lbs3 3/4 to 4 1/4 hours4 to 4 1/4 hours
16 -20 lbs4 1/4 to 4 1/2 hours4 1/4 to 4 3/4 hours
20 -44 lbs4 1/2 to 5 hours4 3/4 to 5 1/4 hours
  • These times are estimates; your specific oven, the starting temperature of the bird, and whether the oven is conventional or convection will affect the actual cooking time.
  • For safety, ensure the stuffing reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C)
  • Always insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh without touching the bone.
  • Let the turkey rest for at least 30 minutes before carving, allowing the juices to redistribute evenly. 

Mashed Potato-Palooza

After hosting more than 30 Thanksgiving dinners, I can say for certain that I have never had leftover mashed potatoes. Here’s six reasons why!

Sometimes, You Gotta Laugh

Oh, karma’s a bitch. Especially when it comes to Thanksgiving dinner.

Thanksgiving SOS

There’s no problem too small that can’t be fixed. I’ve got you covered.

Thanksgiving Questions, Answered

For many, Thanksgiving is the biggest and most anticipated meal of the year. From turkey to stuffing to desserts, we’re here to help you get it right. Here are the answers to our most frequently asked questions on preparing, cooking, and serving Thanksgiving dinner.

What’s your favorite turkey recipe, David Leite?

Well, that’s a bit like asking which of your kids is your favorite. of all the recipes I’ve tried, I’d have to say it comes down to two: my Portuguese-style Thanksgiving turkey with bread stuffing and a potato dressing and this excellent dry brine turkey. I alternate between these two recipes the most.

How long can I store Thanksgiving leftovers?

Most leftovers, including turkey, stuffing, vegetables, potatoes, gravy, cranberry sauce, and any desserts made with cream or milk, need to be refrigerated. Keep them in separate sealed containers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Dinner rolls and desserts that aren’t made with dairy can be stored at room temperature, covered, for up to 3 days.

How many dishes should I serve at Thanksgiving dinner?

It depends on how many people you are serving. If you’ve got a crowd of 8 to 12 people, plan on serving one big main, such as roast turkey, 4 to 5 side dishes, including stuffing, potatoes, and vegetables, and 2 to 3 desserts.

How much wine do I need to buy?

As a general rule, plan for 1/2 a bottle of wine per drinking adult.

How to Carve a Turkey

A carved turkey on a wooden cutting board.

Non-Turkey & Vegetarian Thanksgiving Mains

I get it: Not everyone loves turkey. My dad hated it and always insisted we have carne assada for Thanksgiving. Here are a few non-poultry ideas.

Classic Side Dishes

Thanksgiving Leftovers

Turkey Tetrazzini

This creamy turkey tetrazzini with crispy panko-Parmesan topping is why you’ll want to make sure there’s leftover Thanksgiving turkey.

1 hr

All Thanksgiving