Turkey thawing chart
| Weight | In the fridge | In cold water |
|---|---|---|
| 4–12 lb | 1–3 days | 2–6 hours |
| 12–16 lb | 3–4 days | 6–8 hours |
| 16–20 lb | 4–5 days | 8–10 hours |
| 20–24 lb | 5–6 days | 10–12 hours |
Fridge method (easiest)
- Keep the turkey in its wrapper and set it on a tray to catch drips.
- Your fridge should be 40°F or colder.
- Once thawed, the turkey keeps 1–2 more days in the fridge.
Cold water method (faster)
- Keep the turkey in a leak-proof bag so water can't get in.
- Fully cover it with cold tap water, and change the water every 30 minutes.
- Cook it right away after thawing.
Never do this
Don't thaw a turkey on the counter or in hot water. The outside warms up to unsafe temperatures while the inside is still frozen.
Cooking for Thanksgiving? See exactly which day to start thawing.
🦃Plan your whole turkey in one goSize, thaw day and oven time from your guests and dinner time.FAQ
How long to thaw a 20 lb turkey?
About 4–5 days in the fridge, or about 10 hours in cold water.
How long to thaw a 12 lb turkey?
About 3 days in the fridge, or about 6 hours in cold water.
Can I refreeze a thawed turkey?
A turkey thawed in the fridge can be refrozen, though it may lose some quality. A turkey thawed in cold water should be cooked right away, not refrozen.
Food safety times and temperatures are from USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service guidance. Ovens vary, so always check with a food thermometer.