Frozen Whole Turkey

Thaw in refrigerator (not at room temperature). Place unopened turkey, breast side up, on a tray in refrigerator and follow our refrigerator thawing instructions. Allow at least 24 hours for every 4 pounds.

To thaw more quickly, place unopened turkey breast down in sink filled with cold tap water. Allow 30 minutes per pound. Change water every 30 minutes to keep surface of turkey cold.

When thawed, keep in refrigerator up to 4 days until ready to cook.

Remove packaging, neck and plastic bag containing giblets (in neck cavity). Drain juices and dry turkey with paper towels. Stuff turkey if desired. Combine stuffing ingredients just before using. Fill neck cavity; turn wings back to hold neck skin in place. Stuff body cavity and return legs to tucked position if they were untucked. No trussing is necessary. Brush skin with vegetable oil or spray with non-stick cooking spray for best appearance. Additional basting is not necessary.

For more ideas on how to prepare, cook and carve your turkey see our How To section.

Keep frozen until ready to thaw 

Unopened: Store in freezer, can be stored for up to 2 years

Storage of Leftovers: Carve leftover turkey into pieces before refrigerating to speed cooling.  Refrigerate carved leftovers within 2 hours of eating. Use leftover turkey within 3 days.