Can you bake a frozen butterball turkey?

No, it is not recommended to bake frozen turkey. All poultry must be thawed before cooking to cook evenly and safely. Baking a frozen turkey can result in uneven cooking, with the outside being cooked while the inside remains frozen or undercooked, increasing the risk of foodborne illness.

USDA guidelines recommend thawing frozen turkey in one of three ways:

1. Refrigeration: This method is the safest and takes the longest. Allow 24 hours for each 4-5 pounds of turkey weight in cold water. Keep refrigerated at 40°F or below the whole time.

2. Cold Water Method: Change water every 30 minutes. Allow approximately 30 minutes per pound of turkey. Ensure turkey remains fully submerged in cold water.

3. Microwave Defrosting (Partial) : Follow your microwave's instructions for defrosting poultry. This method should only be used to partially defrost the turkey before using the refrigerator or cold water method to complete the thawing process.

Once thawed, cook the turkey immediately. Never refreeze a raw or partially cooked turkey.