How long does it take to thaw a turkey in the refrigerator?
24 hours per 4-5 poundsA 20-pound bird needs 4 to 5 days, so it goes in the refrigerator by Sunday, December 20. The safe faster way is cold water: keep the turkey in a leak-proof bag, allow 30 minutes per pound, change the water every 30 minutes and cook it as soon as it's thawed. Never thaw it on the counter.
The Christmas dinner
How much turkey do I need per person? 
How much ham do I need per person? 
How much prime rib do I need per person? 
What temperature should a turkey be cooked to? 
What temperature should ham and beef roasts be cooked to? 
How long can cooked food sit out? 
How long do Christmas leftovers last in the refrigerator? 
How long do Christmas cookies last, and can you freeze them? 
Is homemade eggnog safe to drink? - How long for other sizes?
- Up to 12 pounds, 1 to 3 days. 12 to 16 pounds, 3 to 4 days. 16 to 20 pounds, 4 to 5 days. 20 to 24 pounds, 5 to 6 days.
- How long does it keep once it's thawed?
- 1 to 2 days in the refrigerator before you cook it.
- Can I cook it while it's still frozen?
- Yes. Allow at least 50 percent more time, take out the giblet bag once it comes loose, and never deep-fry a frozen turkey.
- Can I thaw it in the microwave?
- Only if it fits. Follow the microwave's own directions and cook it right away.
See the whole Christmas Checklist
Last checked Monday, November 9, from FDA and university extension services.
From our shop Tartan tumbler For the first cup of the day, before the oven is even warm. Our tartan tumbler. 
