Safely Thaw a Turkey: Best Practices for Preventing Bacteria

Thawing a turkey properly is the first step to a successful, safe Thanksgiving feast. A poorly thawed turkey can lead to uneven cooking and potential food safety issues. Follow these steps to thaw your turkey safely and effectively, with tools from ThermoWorks to ensure your bird is ready for the oven.

Frozen Turkey

Why Thawing Your Turkey Correctly is Crucial

Thawing a turkey correctly ensures it cooks evenly, reaching the right internal temperature in all parts. A frozen turkey won’t cook evenly, which can leave some areas undercooked and risk bacteria growth. Let’s go over the best methods for safe thawing.

Method 1: Thawing in the Refrigerator

This is the safest and most recommended method for thawing a turkey. It takes a little more time, but it’s the best way to prevent bacteria growth.

Steps:

• Check Your Turkey’s Weight

  • Determine your turkey’s weight to plan thawing time. You’ll need 24 hours of refrigerator time per 4–5 pounds of turkey.

• Choose the Right Thawing Spot

  • Place the turkey on a tray or shallow pan to catch any potential drips and put it on the lowest shelf to avoid cross-contamination with other foods.

• Monitor the Temperature

  • Use a thermometer, like the ThermoWorks Thermapen®, to keep your refrigerator at a safe temperature, ideally below 40°F.

• Time Your Thawing

For reference:

• 12-pound turkey: 3 days

• 16-pound turkey: 4 days

• 20-pound turkey: 5 days

  
  

By planning in advance, you ensure that the turkey is completely thawed without risk.

Method 2: Thawing in Cold Water

If you’re running short on time, cold water thawing is faster but requires more attention.

Steps:

1. Keep Your Turkey in Original Packaging

   • Don’t remove the turkey’s packaging, as it protects the meat from bacteria.

2. Submerge the Turkey in Cold Water

   • Place the turkey in a clean sink or large container filled with cold water. The water should cover the entire turkey.

3. Change Water Every 30 Minutes

   • To keep the water at a safe, consistent temperature, change it every 30 minutes. Use a ThermoWorks thermometer to check that the water stays below 40°F.

4. Estimate Thawing Time

   • Plan for about 30 minutes per pound. For a 16-pound turkey, this method will take roughly 8 hours.

     
     

Method 3: Thawing in the Microwave (for Small Turkeys)

For very small turkeys or turkey parts, microwave thawing can work in a pinch. Be cautious, as this can start cooking the turkey unevenly.

Steps:

1. Check Microwave Capacity

   • Ensure the turkey fits and can rotate if needed.

2. Refer to Your Microwave Manual

   • Follow the specific defrost settings for your microwave, typically allowing 6 minutes per pound.

3. Monitor Constantly

   • Rotate and flip the turkey every few minutes to ensure even thawing and to avoid cooking parts of the bird prematurely.

4. Cook Immediately After Thawing

   • Due to uneven thawing, microwave-thawed turkey should be cooked immediately to ensure safety.

     
     

Safe Handling Tips

• Avoid Cross-Contamination: Keep raw turkey and its juices away from other foods, surfaces, and utensils.

• Use ThermoWorks Thermapen® ONE: This instant-read thermometer will help you ensure your turkey is thawed safely by checking that no part is below 32°F before you start cooking.

  
  

Why Use a Thermometer?

Using a reliable thermometer, like the ThermoWorks Thermapen® or Smoke™ thermometer, helps you verify safe temperatures throughout the thawing process, giving you peace of mind that your turkey is ready to cook safely.

By following these guidelines, you’ll ensure a perfectly thawed turkey, safe for your family and ready for the big day. Check out Product I Use page on this site for ThermoWorks thermometers and tools that make thawing and cooking a breeze. Enjoy your feast and happy Thanksgiving from the BasteMaster team!