Hormel Foods Recipes

Frozen Turkey Thawing Tips

Thawing turkey in the refrigerator is recommended. If short on time, you may thaw the turkey in cold water in the original wrapping, making sure the water is changed every 30 minutes to keep the turkey surface cold.

Refrigerator Thawing

• Thaw turkey in unopened wrapper on a tray in the refrigerator.
• Allow 4 hours per pound to thaw.
  

Refrigerator Turkey Thawing Time

Cold Water Thawing

• Leave turkey in unopened wrapper. Cover completely with cold water.
• Change water every 30 minutes to keep turkey surface cold.
  

Cold Water Turkey Thawing Time

Thanksgiving Turkey Tips

1. You will want to buy 3/4 to 1 pound of turkey per person.  If you like more leftovers, plan 1-1/2 pounds per person.
2. Plan ahead to thaw a frozen turkey.  It takes about 4 hours per pound to thaw a turkey in the refrigerator.
3. It takes about 15 minutes per pound to roast a turkey at 325°F.
4. It's recommended to cook dressing in a casserole dish during the last hour of roasting the turkey. For optimum safety and more even cooking, it is recommended you cook your stuffing outside the bird in a casserole dish. Don’t forget to use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature of the stuffing, which must reach a safe minimum internal temperature of 165 °F. Plan on 3/4 cup of stuffing per pound of turkey.
5. There is no need to baste the turkey. Opening the oven door slows down the roasting time.
6. The turkey is done when a meat thermometer inserted into the breast reads 170°F  and 180°F  in the thigh.  Stuffing should read 165°F.
7. Let the turkey rest 15 to 20 minutes before carving.  The turkey juices will be reabsorbed and will not be lost during craving.
8. Carve the turkey with a very sharp knife or an electric knife.
9. After roasting, remove the meat from the bones and refrigerate within two hours.  Store leftovers in separate containers in the refrigerator.
10. Relax and enjoy yourself!