To cook a turkey in the oven, most sources recommend preheating the oven to 325°F (163°C) . The cooking time will depend on the weight of the turkey, but a general guideline is to roast for 3½ to 4 hours for a 12- to 14-pound bird. Its important to check the internal temperature of the turkey to ensure its cooked thoroughly and safely. The USDA recommends cooking a turkey to a minimum internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to kill harmful bacteria. For the juiciest meat, some sources suggest removing the turkey from the oven when the temperature reaches 150°F (66°C) . The temperature will continue to rise as the turkey rests and should reach 165°F (75°C) within 30 minutes of being removed from the oven. Heres a summary of the steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Roast the turkey for 3½ to 4 hours for a 12- to 14-pound bird.
3. Check the internal temperature of the turkey to ensure its cooked thoroughly and safely. The minimum recommended temperature is 165°F (75°C).
4. Remove the turkey from the oven when the temperature reaches 150°F (66°C) for the juiciest meat.
5. Let the turkey rest for 30 minutes, during which time the temperature should rise to 165°F (75°C).