How long to defrost tukey?

To defrost a turkey safely, it generally takes about 24 hours for every 4 to 5 pounds when thawing in the refrigerator. For example, an 18-pound turkey will take about 4 to 5 days to fully thaw. If you're in a hurry, you can use the cold water method, allowing approximately 30 minutes of thawing time per pound, ensuring the turkey is in a leak-proof plastic bag and submerged in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes. Never defrost a turkey at room temperature, as this can allow harmful bacteria to grow.