Turkey Timetable

Reader's Digest CanadaReader's Digest CanadaUpdated: Jun. 08, 2011

Thawing and cooking the perfect bird can be tricky business. Consult our table below to ensure nothing goes afoul at your Thanksgiving table.

Oven-ready weight
(including stuffing)
Number
of servings
Thawing time
in the fridge
(frozen turkey)
Cooking time
Resting time
before carving
 3-5 lbs. (1.4-2.3 kg) 4-6 24 hours 2-2 1/2 hours 15 min.
 6-8 lb. (2.7-3.6 kg) 7-10 36 hours 21/2-31/2 hours 20 min.
 9-11 lb. (4-5 kg) 11-15 48 hours 3 1/2-4 hours 30 min.
 12-16 lb. (5.4-7.2 kg) 16-20 72 hours 4 1/2-5 hours 30 min.
*Ensure the turkey is completely thawed before cooking.

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Originally Published: January 18, 2011