Buzz
Credit: Ann_Zhuravleva/Getty ImagesBuying a turkey in advance to ensure it has ample time to thaw and be ready for the holiday feast requires careful planning. Start by choosing between a fresh or frozen turkey. Although both options offer similar flavors, they come with distinct timelines and storage needs. Below, we outline the best time to purchase your Thanksgiving turkey and how to store it properly before cooking.
When to Purchase a Frozen Turkey for Thanksgiving
Choosing a frozen turkey for Thanksgiving allows you to purchase it up to a year ahead and store it in the freezer as is. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) states that while a frozen turkey can remain safe to eat indefinitely, it is best to cook it within a year for optimal quality.
If you prefer not to keep a turkey frozen for an extended period, consider buying one a few weeks before Thanksgiving. This approach not only gives you time to compare prices but also guarantees you won’t face a shortage, as stores often sell out closer to the holiday. As long as your organized freezer has room, a frozen turkey bought in early or mid-November will be perfectly delicious for your Thanksgiving feast, provided it’s thawed correctly.
Discover how long to thaw a turkey with our comprehensive guide and easy-to-follow chart.
For those with limited freezer space, you can plan backward to determine the best time to buy a frozen turkey. Instead of purchasing it weeks in advance, buy it just a few days before Thanksgiving and store it in the refrigerator to start thawing immediately. However, this method leaves less time to find a turkey and requires careful planning to ensure proper thawing.
As a general guideline, allow one day of thawing for every four pounds of frozen turkey. For example, a 16-pound bird will need four days to thaw, so plan to purchase it four days in advance.
When to Purchase a Fresh Thanksgiving Turkey
The main advantage of opting for a fresh turkey is the elimination of thawing time. However, since fresh turkeys are not frozen, their shelf life is significantly shorter. Aim to buy a fresh turkey just one or two days before cooking, ensuring you don’t purchase it more than two days before Thanksgiving.
Proper Turkey Storage Tips
Storing your turkey correctly is crucial to maintaining its freshness and ensuring top quality when preparing your Thanksgiving meal. Prevent any holiday mishaps by planning ahead. Below, we outline the best storage methods for both frozen and fresh turkeys.
Storing a Frozen Turkey
A frozen turkey must remain in the freezer until you’re ready to thaw it. While it can stay frozen indefinitely, it’s recommended to use it within a year for the best quality. Keep the turkey in its original packaging, and when transferring it from the freezer to the fridge, place it on a tray or pan to prevent any leaking juices.
Remember that thawing a turkey in the refrigerator takes approximately one day for every four pounds. For instance, a 12-pound turkey will need about three days to fully thaw. (Plan accordingly!)
Storing a Fresh Turkey
If you don’t plan to cook your fresh turkey right after purchase, store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. Fresh turkeys should be cooked within two days. To store it properly, place the turkey on a tray or pan to catch any leaking juices and ensure it doesn’t contaminate other foods.
Frequently Asked Questions
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When should I order my turkey for Thanksgiving?
If you plan to order your turkey instead of purchasing it from a local store, make sure to place your order well ahead of Thanksgiving. Many companies ship frozen turkeys, so you can order yours several months in advance and store it in your freezer until it’s time to thaw.
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Is it cheaper to buy a turkey before or after Thanksgiving?
Some stores offer the best turkey prices just before Thanksgiving, while others reduce prices after the holiday. Compare prices in your area to find the best deal. Additionally, the cost may vary depending on whether the turkey is fresh or frozen, as frozen turkeys have a longer shelf life and are less likely to spoil.
Note that some grocery stores may provide free turkeys as part of a promotion if you spend a certain amount—allowing you to purchase your Thanksgiving meal and receive a turkey at no extra cost.
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Can a fresh turkey be frozen?
If you purchase a fresh turkey but can’t cook it within a few days, you can safely freeze it as long as it’s within the "best buy" date, as recommended by the USDA.
