How to Properly Reheat a Smoked Turkey

Smoked turkey is a delicious holiday treat. The smoky flavor and moist, tender meat make it a favorite for special occasions. However, like any leftovers, smoked turkey needs to be reheated properly to maintain its quality and taste. Follow this guide to learn the best techniques for reheating whole smoked turkeys as well as smoked turkey leftovers.

Getting Started

When reheating smoked turkey. there are a few key things to keep in mind

• Go low and slow Reheating too quickly, especially at high temperatures, will dry out the turkey.

• Cover it up. Keeping the turkey covered while reheating will lock in moisture.

• Check the temperature. Be sure to use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey reaches a safe internal temperature.

• Let it rest. Allow the reheated turkey to rest for 10-15 minutes before carving for juicy results.

Reheating a Whole Smoked Turkey

To reheat an entire smoked turkey:

• Remove turkey from refrigerator and let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before reheating. This helps it reheat more gently.

• Preheat oven to 325°F.

• Place turkey in a roasting pan and cover tightly with foil. Make sure the foil seals in moisture.

• Bake for approximately 15-20 minutes per pound, until the thickest part of the breast reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

• Check the temperature periodically with a meat thermometer to monitor progress and prevent overcooking.

• Once fully reheated, remove turkey from oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes before removing foil and carving.

Reheating a whole turkey low and slow in the oven with foil allows it to heat through gently and evenly. The turkey will emerge hot, moist, and just as delicious as when first smoked.

Reheating Smoked Turkey Parts

For reheating leftover turkey pieces like breast, legs, thighs, or wings:

• Preheat oven to 350°F. Place turkey pieces in an oven-safe dish in a single layer.

• Cover the dish tightly with foil to seal in moisture.

• Bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through. Turkey pieces reheat more quickly than a whole bird.

• Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure pieces reach 165°F.

• Once heated through, remove turkey pieces from oven, keep covered, and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Reheating Sliced or Diced Turkey

Leftover smoked turkey that has already been sliced or diced can be easily reheated right in the microwave:

• Place turkey pieces in a microwave-safe dish and add a tablespoon or two of turkey broth or water. This prevents drying out.

• Cover dish with a paper towel or plastic wrap to contain steam and moisture.

• Microwave on Medium power in 30 second intervals just until heated through, stirring between intervals.

• Take care not to overheat or turkey will get dried out. Pieces should only need 2-3 minutes total cooking time.

• Let turkey rest 2 minutes before serving. The steam will continue gently heating it.

Making Turkey Sandwiches and Wraps

For quick turkey sandwiches, wraps, and tacos:

• Pile sliced or chopped turkey on bread, tortillas, or wraps.

• Add a spoonful of broth, gravy, or sauce to the meat to prevent drying out.

• Heat sandwiches or wraps in the microwave just until the bread is warmed and turkey heated through, about 30-60 seconds.

• Let rest 2 minutes before serving.

Reheating Turkey Gravy or Broth

Smoked turkey is delicious served drizzled with warmed gravy or broth:

• Transfer gravy or broth to microwave-safe bowl or pitcher.

• Heat in 30 second intervals, whisking well after each, just until hot.

• Take care not to boil or overheat.

• Alternatively, heat gravy or broth in a saucepan on the stovetop over low until warmed through, stirring frequently.

• Ladle over sliced smoked turkey just before serving.

Tips for Moist and Tasty Leftovers

Follow these tips for the best results when reheating leftover smoked turkey:

• Allow turkey to cool completely before refrigerating. This prevents moisture loss.

• Store turkey tightly wrapped or in an airtight container. Use leftover broth or juices to keep it moist.

• Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking. Use within 3-4 days.

• Reheat only the amount needed. Refrigerate remaining leftovers immediately.

• Add broth, water, or gravy during reheating to ensure the turkey stays juicy.

• Use foil or microwave-safe lids to seal in steam and moisture.

• Heat turkey gently, either in the microwave or oven, using lower power/temperatures.

• Check internal temperature to ensure doneness and safety. Whole turkey should reach 165°F.

• Let roasted turkey rest before carving, and microwaved turkey rest before serving, so juices can redistribute.

With proper storage and reheating, leftover smoked turkey stays succulent and full of flavor. Follow these techniques and enjoy your holiday bird again and again.