Learn how to defrost a turkey safely with our essential cookery advice. Try our top tips, different defrosting methods and safety guidance.
If you’re opting for a frozen turkey to celebrate Christmas or Thanksgiving this year, defrosting it properly and safely is very important. We examine the different ways to defrost a whole turkey in time for your festive dinner.Advertisement
A frozen turkey is a good-value option and means you can opt for a higher welfare bird for less money. It also means you can get ahead and buy your turkey sooner to spread the cost. But, it’s also a massive block of frozen meat that can be a bit daunting to deal with. There are several options when it comes to defrosting a whole turkey depending on your time, space and the size of the bird.
Defrosting a frozen turkey is a crucial first step for preparing a perfect holiday meal. But it requires advance planning, since thawing a large frozen bird can take days. So how long exactly does it take to defrost a whole turkey?
This definitive guide covers everything you need to know about safely thawing turkeys of all sizes, using recommended techniques. Follow these turkey defrosting timelines and tips, and you’ll be ready to cook up an amazing feast on schedule.
Why Defrosting Is Essential
Freezing meat keeps it safe indefinitely. But once thawing begins, bacteria can start growing again if the temperature is above 40°F. Thorough defrosting is key for even cooking and food safety.
Trying to cook a frozen turkey leads to undercooked, dangerous meat. And microwave thawing can start cooking the bird unevenly. Proper refrigerator or cold water thawing gently defrosts the entire turkey at a safe, consistent temperature.
Refrigerator Thawing Times
The fridge method is preferred for its convenience and safety. Here are the recommended refrigerator thaw times:
- 4 to 12 lb turkey: 1 to 3 days
- 12 to 16 lb turkey: 3 to 4 days
- 16 to 20 lb turkey: 4 to 5 days
- 20 to 24 lb turkey: 5 to 6 days
So allow about 1 day of fridge thawing for every 4 to 5 lbs of turkey weight. Plan ahead so you have time to thoroughly defrost using this gradual approach
Cold Water Thawing Times
The cold water method defrosts a turkey faster, but requires more attentive monitoring:
- 4 to 12 lb turkey: 2 to 6 hours
- 12 to 16 lb turkey: 6 to 8 hours
- 16 to 20 lb turkey: 8 to 10 hours
- 20 to 24 lb turkey: 10 to 12 hours
Estimate about 30 minutes of cold water thaw time per pound of turkey weight. Submerge the wrapped turkey in a sink of cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes.
Key Tips for Safe Thawing
Follow these top turkey defrosting tips for best results
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Defrost breast side up in the fridge in its original wrapping. Use a tray to catch drips.
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Submerge the wrapped turkey in cold water breast side down. Rotate occasionally and change water every 30 mins.
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Cook immediately after the turkey is thawed. Don’t refreeze or leave at room temperature.
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Microwave thaw only if cooking immediately. Follow microwave instructions carefully.
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Never thaw at room temperature or in hot water which can breed bacteria.
Frequently Asked Turkey Thawing Questions
How long does it take to thaw a 10 lb turkey?
For a 10 lb turkey, allow 2-3 days thawing in the refrigerator, or 5-6 hours in cold water.
Can you thaw a turkey at room temperature?
Never thaw a turkey at room temperature, which can lead to bacterial growth. Use the fridge or cold water only.
How do you thaw a turkey fast?
The fastest method is cold water thawing, changing the water every 30 minutes. But refrigerator thawing is easier and safest.
Can I thaw a turkey in the sink?
Yes, as long as the sink is fully filled with cold water, submerging the wrapped turkey, and the water is changed every 30 minutes.
Should you thaw a turkey before brining?
Always thaw before brining. A brine can’t fully penetrate a frozen turkey. Thaw first in the fridge, then brine the thawed bird.
Can I cook a partially frozen turkey?
You can cook a partially defrosted turkey, but it will take significantly longer. Cook to an internal temperature of 165°F.
Is it OK to roast a frozen turkey?
Roasting a completely frozen turkey is not recommended, as it cooks unevenly. Always thaw first for food safety and best results.
Master Turkey Defrosting
Thawing a large turkey requires planning ahead for a minimum of 1-2 days for the fridge method, or several hours in cold water. Follow safe turkey thawing guidelines based on weight. With the right technique, you’ll have a fully defrosted, delicious turkey ready for holiday feasting!
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How to defrost a turkey in cold water
Pros: quick.Cons: cumbersome and potentially unhygienic if packaging isnt sealed.
How to do it Submerge the turkey in its packaging in a large sink, bucket or container full of cold water. Feel the temperature of the water occasionally – if doesn’t feel cold, replace with fresh cold water. Problems could arise if the packaging isn’t totally sealed or torn, as the water and everything it touches will become contaminated with raw turkey juices.
How long does it take? Done safely, this method should take about 1 hr for every 1kg of turkey.
How to defrost a turkey outside
Pros: it frees up space in the fridge or kitchen.Cons: you need a large, sealable plastic container and it only works if it’s cold outside.
How to do it This only works during cold weather when the outdoor temperature won’t exceed 10C. Sit the frozen turkey in a large plastic box with a lid, or in a tray or dish in the box. Seal, and sit the box in a garage, garden shed or the boot of a car and leave the turkey to defrost.
How long does it take? It should take about two days.