By hour 5.5 (around 4:00 PM), the turkey should be done. Take it out when the breast hits 160°F, because carryover cooking will boost it to 165°F as it rests. If you wait until it hits 165°F in the oven, you’ll be eating dried-out sawdust. Let it rest for 30–45 minutes, tented in foil. This is non-negotiable—think of it as the turkey’s spa day before its execution.
While it rests, the juices redistribute so every bite is moist. Don’t carve it like a maniac; you’ll release all that juicy goodness onto the cutting board. And if anyone asks “Is it ready yet?” at the 5-hour mark, smile and say, “It’s almost as ready as you are for therapy after this meal.”
One Last Bite of Advice
If you’re short on time, don’t stuff the turkey. Cook the stuffing in a casserole dish on the side. You’ll save an hour of roasting and avoid the “is the stuffing safe?” anxiety dance. But if you’re a traditionalist like me, embrace the chaos. The first time I did a 22-pounder, I forgot to remove the neck from the cavity—I found it later, looking like a sad alien. Learn from my shame.
So, how long to cook a 22-pound stuffed turkey? About 6 hours, plus 45 minutes of rest, plus three panic attacks. But when that golden, crispy skin crackles under the carving knife and your family groans in delight, you’ll forget every minute. Just remember: the turkey is a boss, and you are its humble, butter-smeared servant. Happy eating, you magnificent monster.