how long to defrost a turkey
No Follow. According to the USDA, when thawing your turkey in the refrigerator, you'll need to allow 24 hours for every four to five pounds. Don't bother with the mathâhere's a table: 1  4 to 12 pounds: 1-3 days. 2  12 to 16 pounds: 3-4 days. 3  16 to 20 pounds: 4-5 days. 4  20 to 24 pounds: 5-6 days.