Short answer: most people baste a turkey about every 30 to 45 minutes during roasting, but many cooks reach similar results with less frequent basting or even none, depending on the method and desired skin texture. Details to help you choose a method

• Frequent basting (every 30 minutes):
  • Pros: Produces a richly lacquered, flavorful surface and can help keep breast meat moist on very long roasts.
  • Cons: Opens the oven frequently, which can slow cooking and lengthen total time; can disrupt oven temperature and dry out juices if overdone.
  • Best when: Roasting at moderate to high heat and you want a glossy, deeply browned skin.
• Moderate frequency (every 40–45 minutes):
  • Pros: Balances moisture retention with less heat loss; skin still browns gradually.
  • Cons: Smaller gains in juiciness compared to very frequent baste.
  • Best when: You want reliable results with less hands-on attention.
• Light or no basting (every hour or not at all):
  • Pros: Maximizes oven efficiency and tends to yield better skin crispness when the bird is basted with pan juices or oil beforehand; reduces heat loss.
  • Cons: Skin may not appear as glossy, and breast moisture may rely more on pan juices and overall cooking method.
  • Best when: Using high-heat roasting, dry brine, or air-dried skin strategies; you care more about crisp skin than extra surface moisture.
• Techniques to consider regardless of frequency:
  • Start with a well-prepared bird: pat dry, loosen skin to season under the skin if desired, and brush with oil or melted butter for initial browning.
  • Use a robust roasting rack and pan with a bit of liquid (stock, wine, or broth) to promote gentle moisture beneath the surface without diluting browning.
  • Monitor internal temperature: the turkey is safe at 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh; use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
  • Rest before carving: 20–30 minutes covered loosely with foil helps juices redistribute and improves juiciness.

If you’d like, share your turkey size, oven temperature, and whether you’re aiming for ultra-crisp skin or maximum overall juiciness, and this can tailor a specific baste schedule and technique for your setup.