How long to thaw a turkey
Pick your thawing method and the day you’re cooking. We’ll tell you how long it takes and when to move the bird from the freezer.
In a 40°F (4°C) fridge
4 days
- Fridge rate
- 24 hr per 4–5 lb
- Cold-water rate
- 30 min per lb
- Keeps once thawed
- 1–2 days in fridge
- From frozen in oven
- ≈ 6 hr
| Weight | In the refrigerator | In cold water |
|---|---|---|
| 4 to 12 lb | 1 to 3 days | 2 to 6 hours |
| 12 to 16 lb | 3 to 4 days | 6 to 8 hours |
| 16 to 20 lb | 4 to 5 days | 8 to 10 hours |
| 20 to 24 lb | 5 to 6 days | 10 to 12 hours |
| 24 to 30 lb | 6 to 7 days | 12 to 15 hours |
The three safe ways to thaw
The USDA recognises three safe methods, and they all keep the outer layer of the bird out of the “danger zone” between 40°F and 140°F where bacteria multiply quickly.
1. In the refrigerator (best)
Allow about 24 hours for every 4 to 5 pounds, in the original wrapping, on a tray on the bottom shelf so juices can’t drip onto other food. A thawed turkey keeps another day or two in the fridge, so starting early is harmless.
2. In cold water (faster)
Keep the turkey in a leak-proof bag, breast-side down, fully submerged in cold tap water. Change the water every 30 minutes so it stays cold, and allow about 30 minutes per pound. Cook it immediately after thawing.
3. In the microwave (small birds only)
Follow your microwave’s instructions for weight, remove all wrapping, and cook straight away; parts of the bird start to cook while thawing. Most turkeys over 12–14 lb don’t fit.
Never thaw a turkey on the counter, in the garage or in hot water. The outside warms into the danger zone for hours while the centre is still frozen.
Out of time?
You can roast a turkey straight from frozen. It takes about 50% longer; pull out the neck and giblets with tongs once they loosen, and check the thigh, breast and wing all reach 165°F.
Questions cooks ask
How long does it take to thaw a 20 lb turkey?
Four to five days in the refrigerator, or about 10 hours in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes.
Can I refreeze a thawed turkey?
Yes, if it was thawed in the refrigerator and hasn’t been out of it; quality drops slightly. Turkey thawed in cold water or the microwave should be cooked first.
How do I know the turkey is fully thawed?
The legs move freely, and you can reach inside the cavity without feeling ice crystals. If the centre is still icy, finish in cold water.
Is a partially frozen turkey safe to cook?
Yes. It just takes longer. Always confirm 165°F in the thigh, breast and wing.