In the Refrigerator
- Leave the turkey in its original wrapping and place on a tray inside the refrigerator.
- Check the weight and allow approximately 24 hours per 5 pounds.
| Whole Turkey Weight |
Thawing Time |
Day to Begin (a.m.) |
| 8 to 12 lbs |
1 to 2 days |
Tuesday |
| 12 to 16 lbs |
2 to 3 days |
Monday |
| 16 to 20 lbs |
3 to 4 days |
Sunday |
| 20 to 24 lbs |
4 to 5 days |
Saturday |
In Cold Water
- Change the water every half-hour.
- Check the weight and allow approximately 30 minutes for every pound.
| Whole Turkey Weight |
Thawing Time |
| 8 to 12 lbs |
4 to 6 hours |
| 12 to 16 lbs |
6 to 8 hours |
| 16 to 20 lbs |
8 to 10 hours |
| 20 to 24 lbs |
10 to 12 hours |