Getting ready for Thanksgiving means making sure your turkey is perfectly thawed to ensure a delicious feast. Here’s how long you should thaw your turkey in the fridge, depending on its weight:
- 4 to 12 pounds – 1 to 3 days
- 12 to 16 pounds – 3 to 4 days
- 16 to 20 pounds – 4 to 5 days
- 20 to 24 pounds – 5 to 6 days
🌟 Thawing Tips:
- Refrigerator Thawing: Plan on approximately 24 hours of thawing for every 4 pounds of turkey. Keep the turkey in its original wrapping and place it in a tray to catch any juices that may leak.
- Need it Faster? Use the cold water method. Submerge the turkey in its original packaging in cold water. Change the water every 30 minutes. Allow roughly 30 minutes per pound for thawing.
- Ready to Cook? Make sure your turkey is completely thawed before cooking. Partially thawed turkeys can cook unevenly.
👉 Remember: Safety first! Never thaw your turkey at room temperature, as this can promote bacterial growth.
