How Long Does It Take to Thaw a Turkey?
Quick Answer
1 day per 4–5 lbs in the refrigerator. Cold water method: 30 minutes per pound.
Duration by Type
Allow about 24 hours per 4–5 lbs; safest, no bacterial-growth risk.
30 minutes per pound; change the water every 30 minutes and cook immediately after.
Use the defrost setting by weight; cook immediately as some areas begin to cook.
Step-by-Step Timeline
Allow 24 hours per 4–5 lbs in the refrigerator; a 16-lb bird needs about 4 days.
The tray catches drips and prevents cross-contamination.
Quick Answer
Thawing a turkey in the refrigerator takes about 1 day for every 4–5 pounds. A 16-pound turkey needs approximately 4 days. The cold water method is faster at 30 minutes per pound (about 8 hours for a 16-lb bird) but requires more attention.
Thawing Time by Weight (Refrigerator Method)
| Turkey Weight | Refrigerator (40°F) | Cold Water (30 min/lb) |
|---|---|---|
| 8–10 lbs | 2–3 days | 4–5 hours |
| 10–12 lbs | 3 days | 5–6 hours |
| 12–16 lbs | 3–4 days | 6–8 hours |
| 16–20 lbs | 4–5 days | 8–10 hours |
| 20–24 lbs | 5–6 days | 10–12 hours |
Three Safe Thawing Methods
1. Refrigerator Thawing (Recommended)
- Place turkey breast-side up on a tray in the bottom of the fridge.
- Allow 24 hours per 4–5 pounds.
- A thawed turkey can stay in the fridge 1–2 additional days before cooking.
- Safest method – no bacterial growth risk.
2. Cold Water Thawing (Faster)
- Submerge wrapped turkey in cold water.
- Change water every 30 minutes.
- Allow 30 minutes per pound.
- Cook immediately after thawing.
3. Microwave Thawing (Fastest, Small Birds Only)
- Use the defrost function based on weight.
- Rotate and flip the turkey periodically.
- Cook immediately after – some areas may begin cooking.
- Only practical for birds under 12 lbs in most microwaves.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Thawing on the counter: Room temperature promotes bacterial growth. Never thaw at room temperature.
- Starting too late: A 20-lb turkey needs 5+ days in the fridge. Plan ahead.
- Forgetting to remove the wrapper for water thaw: Keep the turkey in its original wrapping for the cold water method.
- Not changing the water: Water must be changed every 30 minutes for the cold water method.
Can You Cook a Frozen Turkey?
Yes. The USDA confirms you can cook a turkey from frozen. Add about 50% more cooking time (a turkey that normally takes 4 hours will need about 6 hours). Remove giblets with tongs once the cavity thaws during cooking.
Food Safety Reminders
- Thawed turkey should be cooked within 1–2 days if refrigerator-thawed.
- Cook turkey to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
- Wash hands and sanitize surfaces that contact raw turkey.
Pro Tips
Never thaw a turkey on the counter — room temperature promotes rapid bacterial growth in the outer layers.
— USDA
Plan ahead: a 20-lb turkey needs 5+ days in the fridge, so start counting back from your meal time.
— Butterball
If you run out of time, you can cook the turkey from frozen — just add about 50% more cooking time.
— USDA