Thanksgiving Day is quickly approaching, but let’s be honest: It’s not easy to host Thanksgiving dinner. There’s a lot of pressure to make this delicious holiday perfect, from knowing when to start thawing a turkey to figuring out how much turkey to make and the age-old concern of will I have enough food for my guests.
Above all the mayhem that accompanies planning an epic dinner party, food safety ought to come first.
After all, leftover pumpkin pie should be shared with loved ones at the end of the day, not food poisoning.
Because of this, the researchers at Eat This, Not That! have put together a list of essential guidelines for defrosting frozen turkeys, a procedure that, if done improperly, could introduce a ton of pathogenic bacteria to the Thanksgiving table.
There are a few different methods for thawing a bird, but almost all of them call for beginning the process a few days before Thanksgiving, so plan ahead and get started as soon as possible.
Planning a delicious Thanksgiving feast? Thawing a frozen turkey is a crucial step, and knowing the proper methods and timelines ensures a safe and stress-free experience This guide explores how long it takes to thaw a 12-pound turkey in the refrigerator, along with other safe thawing methods and important safety tips.
Thawing a 12-Pound Turkey in the Refrigerator
The recommended method for thawing a turkey is in the refrigerator. This method takes longer than other methods, but it’s the safest and most consistent way to ensure your turkey thaws evenly and remains at a safe temperature.
For a 12-pound turkey, expect it to take 3 to 4 days to thaw completely in the refrigerator. This timeframe allows for a gradual and safe thawing process, minimizing the risk of bacterial growth.
Here’s how to thaw a 12-pound turkey in the refrigerator:
- Remove the turkey from its packaging. Leave the giblets and neck in the cavity for later use.
- Place the turkey on a rimmed baking sheet or in a large bowl. This will catch any drippings as the turkey thaws.
- Place the turkey in the refrigerator, ensuring it’s not touching any other food items.
- Allow the turkey to thaw for 3 to 4 days, checking it daily for signs of thawing. The turkey is fully thawed when there are no ice crystals remaining and the meat feels soft throughout.
Other Safe Thawing Methods
While the refrigerator is the recommended method there are other safe ways to thaw a turkey:
Cold Water Thawing: Submerge the turkey in a sink or container filled with cold water. Change the water every 30 minutes to ensure it stays cold. Allow 30 minutes of thawing time per pound of turkey. For a 12-pound turkey, this method takes approximately 6 hours.
Microwave Thawing: This method is only recommended if your microwave has a defrost function and a turntable. Consult your microwave’s manual for specific instructions. Generally, allow 6 minutes of defrosting time per pound of turkey. Rotate the turkey several times during the thawing process.
Important Safety Tips
Never thaw a turkey at room temperature. This can create an environment for bacteria to grow rapidly.
Do not thaw a turkey in hot water, a dishwasher, or on the counter. These methods can cause uneven thawing and increase the risk of bacterial growth.
Once the turkey is thawed, cook it immediately. Do not refreeze a thawed turkey.
Use a food thermometer to ensure the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh and breast. This ensures that the turkey is cooked safely and thoroughly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to thaw a 12-pound turkey in cold water?
Allow 6 hours of thawing time for a 12-pound turkey in cold water. Remember to change the water every 30 minutes.
Can I thaw a 12-pound turkey in the microwave?
Yes, but only if your microwave has a defrost function and a turntable. Consult your microwave’s manual for specific instructions. Generally, allow 6 minutes of defrosting time per pound of turkey.
How long can I keep a thawed turkey in the refrigerator?
A thawed turkey can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before cooking.
How do I know if my turkey is fully thawed?
The turkey is fully thawed when there are no ice crystals remaining and the meat feels soft throughout.
What is the safest way to thaw a turkey?
The safest way to thaw a turkey is in the refrigerator. This method takes longer, but it ensures a consistent and safe thawing process.
Can I refreeze a thawed turkey?
No, do not refreeze a thawed turkey. This can increase the risk of bacterial growth.
What temperature should I cook my turkey to?
Cook the turkey to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh and breast. Use a food thermometer to ensure it reaches this temperature.
Thawing a turkey properly is essential for a safe and delicious Thanksgiving meal. By following the recommended methods and safety tips, you can ensure your turkey is thawed safely and cooked to perfection. Remember, the refrigerator is the safest method, taking 3 to 4 days for a 12-pound turkey. If you’re short on time, consider the cold water or microwave methods, but always follow the safety guidelines. Enjoy your Thanksgiving feast!
How to thaw a frozen turkey for Thanksgiving
Avoid defrosting a turkey on the counter in the kitchen as this could serve as a haven for harmful bacteria or your cat’s midnight snack. Instead, use the fridge.
Lay the bird on a roasting pan or deep-rimmed tray lined with a wire rack to catch any leaks before putting it straight in the refrigerator. The plumpest part between the wings should be facing up. Place it that way and securely wrap it in plastic wrap. To reduce the chance of contracting a foodborne illness, put the tray or pan on the lowest shelf in your refrigerator. The food that requires the highest cooking temperature, such as poultry, should be kept on the lowest shelf in your refrigerator.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture recommends allowing 24 hours of defrosting time for every 4 to 5 pounds of turkey when thawing it in the refrigerator. S. Department of Agriculture. Therefore, allow the turkey to defrost in the refrigerator for roughly three days if it weighs twelve pounds. Make sure it’s chilled four to five days prior to the holiday if it weighs 16 pounds or more. By thawing it the weekend before Thanksgiving, you can make sure your turkey will be completely defrosted by the time you need to cook it on Thursday. Additionally, you will have plenty of time to brine it using a dry spice rub or a wet brine.
- 10-pound turkey: 2 days of thawing in the refrigerator
- Thaw a 12-pound turkey in the refrigerator for two to three days.
- A 14-pound turkey should be refrigerated for two to three days to thaw.
- Thaw a 16-pound turkey in the fridge for three to four days.
- Thaw an 18-pound turkey in the fridge for three to four days.
- A 20-pound turkey should be refrigerated for 4–5 days to thaw.
Consider thawing the turkey using a microwave
It’s true that you can thaw a turkey in the microwave, but use caution when doing so. Make sure the Thanksgiving centerpiece fits inside the microwave and has enough room to spin before deciding to thaw it. Take off the plastic wrap and put the bird in a baking dish or microwave-safe dish if it’s small enough. Press the defrost button, enter the bird’s weight, and then watch the microwave do its magic.
If the defrosting function isn’t working properly in your microwave, figure out how long the bird needs to thaw based on its weight. Six minutes per pound is a good rule of thumb. During the thawing process, be sure to flip and rotate the meat because microwaves have an uneven heating effect.
- 10-pound turkey: 1 hour of thawing in the microwave
- A 12-pound turkey takes one hour and twelve minutes to thaw in the microwave.
- A 14-pound turkey requires 1 hour and 24 minutes in the microwave to thaw.
- A 16-pound turkey requires 1 hour and 36 minutes in the microwave to thaw.
- 18-pound turkey: microwave it for 1 hour and 48 minutes to thaw.
- 20-pound turkey: 2 hours of thawing in the microwave