Duck in the oven.2 h 30 min to 2 h 55 min at 350°F
Whole unstuffed duck, 4-6 lb; do not stuff. A useful starting range, with the details that matter.
Duck, your setting
at 350°F
Based on FoodSafety.gov: meat and poultry roasting charts.
Source entry: Duck. Portion controls describe one piece or planning portion; they are separate from the manufacturer’s total basket load.
From preheat to the final check.
- 1
Preheat
350°F; follow your appliance instructions.
- 2
Cook
2 h 30 min to 2 h 55 min; keep pieces evenly spaced.
- 3
Check
165°F at the center; Poultry.
- 4
Rest
No mandatory USDA rest time for this food.
A quick size comparison.
The source reference is marked below. Other rows are modelled estimates at your selected settings.
| Reference size | Typical time | Basis |
|---|---|---|
| 4 lb | 2 h to 2 h 20 min | Model estimate |
| 5 lb | 2 h 30 min to 2 h 55 min | Source reference |
| 6 lb | 3 h to 3 h 30 min | Model estimate |
Same food. Different details.
A few things worth knowing.
How long does duck take in the oven?
For Whole unstuffed duck, 4-6 lb; do not stuff, the chart baseline is 30-35 minutes per lb at 350°F. Adjusted sizes and temperatures are modelled estimates.
What makes duck cook faster or slower?
Use evenly sized pieces so the center and outside finish closer together. Thickness, initial temperature and appliance output also matter. A total basket weight does not describe the thickness of each piece.
Can I cook duck from frozen?
The frozen setting gives a starting range. The 50% longer oven estimate is an editorial transfer of USDA frozen-poultry guidance, rather than a food-specific test. Confirm doneness independently; follow package instructions if they differ.
When should I start checking?
Check at 150 minutes for this setting. Keep cooking if the center has not reached the appropriate safety endpoint or texture. A timer is a reminder to check.
How do I know when duck is done?
Check the thickest part, away from bone. Whole birds: also check the inner thigh and wing; stuffing must reach 165°F. A thermometer beats any timer.
Next on the menu?
More oven timesWhere this range comes from.
- FoodSafety.gov: meat and poultry roasting chartsChecked 2026-10-01
- FoodSafety.gov: safe minimum internal temperaturesChecked 2026-10-01
Reference facts are compiled from primary charts. Adjusted ranges are planning estimates. Read how we calculate them.