How to Stuff a Turkey

Whether you call it stuffing or dressing, it's at the heart of any Thanksgiving. Watch Kurt from the Butterball® Turkey Talk-Line® show you how to stuff your turkey.

When cooking turkey, be sure to follow proper food safety and handling guidelines. Not sure what turkey stuffing recipe to use? We have plenty you’re sure to love.

Cooking a Stuffed Turkey

If you decide to cook your stuffing in your turkey, follow these simple steps to prepare and cook the stuffed turkey properly.

  1. Prepare your stuffing using only cooked ingredients. Use sautéed vegetables, cooked meats or seafood, etc. Use pasteurized egg products, instead of raw eggs.
  2. Place the prepared stuffing in the whole turkey just before roasting. Stuffing the night before could cause food-borne illness.
  3. Stuff both the neck and body cavities of a completely thawed turkey, allowing ½ to ¾ cup of stuffing per pound. Don’t pack stuffing too tightly, as it may cause uneven cooking.
  4. When preparing a whole turkey for the oven, return the legs to the original tucked position if they were untucked for stuffing. Turn the wings back to hold the neck skin in place. (Tucking the wings helps to stabilize the turkey in the pan and while carving.) If you are stuffing a whole turkey breast you can skip this step.
  5. Stuffing should be 165°F in the center when done.
  6. Do not cook a stuffed turkey on an outdoor grill or with a water smoker.
  7. Do not use a fast-cook method, like deep frying, because the turkey will be done before the stuffing.

Turkey Tips

When is my turkey done?

Need help determining if your turkey is done? Check out How to Check for Doneness or How to Place a Meat Thermometer.

Suggested Products

We believe people should feel good about what they eat. That's why all Butterball® products are made with quality turkey for everyone and for any occasion.

Butterball® Turkey Talk-Line®

Got a turkey-related question? We can answer it!

Call 1-800-BUTTERBALL or text us at 844-877-3456 to chat with our turkey experts

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More Turkey Tips

How to Brine

Brining is the key to a juicy, flavor-filled turkey. Never tried it before? We'll show you how.

How to Stuff

Whether you call it stuffing or dressing, it's at the heart of any Thanksgiving. Let us show you how to prepare a stuffed turkey.

How to Thaw

Ready to get cooking? We'll show you the do's and don'ts of thawing your turkey.

How to Inject a Turkey

Looking to add a little extra flavor? Try injecting your turkey with a favorite marinade. It's simple and easy.

How to Carve

There's one last step before you dig in: carving! Don't be intimidated. We're here to guide you.

Food Safety Essentials

Get the information you need to store, prepare and enjoy your meal safely.

How to Make a Leftover Turkey Sandwich

Got leftovers? Make a sandwich! Turn your Thanksgiving dinner leftovers into another tasty meal.

How to Choose a Turkey

Fresh or frozen? Big or small? We can help you choose the right turkey for your next gathering with our how-to video.

How to Place a Meat Thermometer

Unsure of how to check if your turkey is done cooking? Use a meat thermometer!

How to Marinate

When you know the basics of marinating, you can guarantee great flavor every time. Let us show you the steps and some great recipes, too. There's a marinade for every occasion and every palate.

How to Inject a Turkey

Looking to add a little extra flavor? Try injecting your turkey with a favorite marinade. It's simple and easy.

How to Check for Doneness

Is the turkey done yet? You may have heard of different ways to check, but there’s only one way to be sure.