How to Thaw Turkey Safely
In the refrigerator : Turkeys can be thawed using one of three methods, but the safest, most foolproof, and most recommended is to thaw them in the refrigerator. In addition to being the safest method, this will also result in the best finished product.
- Plan ahead and allow about 24 hours for every 4 to 5 pounds of bird weight.
- Place the turkey, in the original wrapper, on a shallow-rimmed baking sheet or platter in the refrigerator.
- Refer to the following chart for estimated thawing times.
| Refrigerator Turkey Thawing Time (40 degrees F) | |
|---|---|
| Turkey Weight | Days to Allow for Thawing Turkey |
| 8 to 12 pounds | 2 to 2.5 days |
| 12 to 16 pounds | 2.5 to 4 days |
| 16 to 20 pounds | 4 to 5 days |
| 20 to 24 pounds | 5 to 6 days |
The Cold Water Method: If planning fell short, and you need to thaw the turkey more quickly, use the cold water method.
- Cover the turkey, still sealed in the original wrapper, with cold water.
- Change the cold water every 30 minutes.
- Allow about 30 minutes per pound for complete thawing, or refer to the following chart.
| COLD Water Turkey Thawing Time | |
|---|---|
| Turkey Weight | Hours to Allow for Thawing Turkey |
| 8 to 12 pounds | 4 to 6 hours |
| 12 to 16 pounds | 6 to 8 hours |
| 16 to 20 pounds | 8 to 10 hours |
| 20 to 24 pounds | 10 to 12 hours |
The Microwave Method: Even though thawing can be safely done in the microwave, it is the least desired method for producing a good-quality finished product, and the turkey must be roasted immediately after thawing.
- Follow your microwave manufacturer's directions for thawing.
- Roast the turkey immediately, once thawing is complete.