Like turkey, but not the effort it takes to cook? A smoked turkey from Gartner’s Meats is the perfect solution. Our Smoked Turkeys are fully cooked, and here are tips for reheating them.
To Reheat: We recommend using a rack in your roasting pan. Add a little water to the bottom of the pan and cover the smoked turkey with foil. Bake at 325 degrees for approx. 10 minutes per pound, or until your meat thermometer reads 165 degrees.
Smoked turkey is a delicious and comforting meal, often served during holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas. However, reheating leftover smoked turkey can be tricky. If not done properly, the turkey can end up dry, tasteless, and disappointing. Follow this comprehensive guide to learn the best techniques for reheating smoked turkey whole or in parts to preserve moisture and flavor.
Overview of Reheating Smoked Turkey
The keys to effectively reheating smoked turkey are taking it slow, maintaining gentle heat, and keeping moisture sealed in. Rushing the process or using high temperatures will cause the turkey to dry out fast.
For whole smoked turkeys, ovens or grill smokers are best, allowing thorough, even reheating. Leftover sliced turkey can be reheated in the oven, microwave, or stove top. Always monitor temperature and doneness closely when reheating to avoid overcooking.
With the right techniques reheated smoked turkey can taste nearly as amazing as when first cooked. Let’s look at the step-by-step instructions for reheating whole turkeys versus turkey parts.
Reheating a Whole Smoked Turkey
Preparing the whole turkey correctly before reheating is half the battle. Follow these tips for whole smoked turkeys:
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Let it temper: Remove smoked turkey from the refrigerator and allow to gradually reach room temperature, about 1 hour. This helps it reheat faster.
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Keep it moist: Rub turkey skin with oil or butter and tightly seal in heavy-duty aluminum foil before reheating. This prevents drying out.
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Choose gentle heat: Reheat turkey at 250°F to 325°F. High heat dries out exterior before interior is warmed.
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Track temperature: Insert a meat thermometer to monitor internal temp. Target around 140°F. Don’t exceed 150°F.
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Allow carryover cooking: Let turkey rest 20-30 mins after reheating so juices redistribute evenly. Carve and serve.
At proper oven temperatures, reheating a whole turkey takes roughly 15-20 minutes per pound. Watch it closely and rely on an accurate meat thermometer for best results.
Reheating Leftover Smoked Turkey Parts
For reheating leftover smoked turkey that’s already carved, you have flexibility using the oven, stove top, or microwave. Here are tips for each:
Oven Method
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Preheats oven to 300°F. Lay turkey slices or pieces in a baking dish.
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Add broth or stock to the dish to add moisture.
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Cover with foil. Reheat for 30-45 minutes until 165°F internal temp.
Stovetop Method
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Place turkey slices in skillet with chicken or turkey stock.
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Cover and heat on medium-low, allowing meat to steam and absorb flavors.
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Stir and turn turkey pieces occasionally until fully heated through, about 10-15 minutes.
Microwave Method
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Plate turkey slices separately with a spoonful of stock or gravy.
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Cover with a paper towel or wax paper. Microwave on High in 30 second increments.
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Allow to rest a minute before checking doneness and serve.
Proper storage is also key for enjoying leftover smoked turkey. Allow turkey to cool completely before refrigerating in shallow airtight containers. Use within 3-4 days for maximum freshness and flavor.
Handling Food Safety with Smoked Turkey
When dealing with any cooked meats, it’s vital to adhere to food safety principles. Here are some key tips:
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Refrigerate all leftovers within 2 hours of cooking.
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Discard any turkey left out longer than this. Don’t risk food poisoning.
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Divide turkey into smaller containers to allow faster chilling.
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Use reheated turkey within 3-4 days and freeze the rest if keeping longer.
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Verify internal temperature reaches safe minimum of 165°F after reheating.
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Avoid reheating turkey more than once. Toxin risks increase after initial reheat.
Follow these food safety steps along with the proper reheating techniques, and you’ll keep your smoked turkey delicious and safe to enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions About Reheating Smoked Turkey
Still have some questions about reheating your smoked turkey perfectly? Here are answers to some common queries:
How long does reheated smoked turkey last?
- About 3 to 4 days maximum in the refrigerator. Discard if mold, smell, or sliminess develops.
Can you reheat turkey in the crockpot or slow cooker?
- Yes, on Low setting for 2-3 hours, adding broth and monitoring temperature.
Is it safe to eat cold smoked turkey without reheating?
- Yes, if properly stored at 40°F or below. But reheating improves flavor.
Should you cover smoked turkey while reheating it?
- Yes, use foil or a lid to prevent moisture loss during reheating.
What if my smoked turkey gets dry after reheating?
- Try slicing and serving with gravy or stock for added moisture and flavor.
Enjoy Moist, Delicious Smoked Turkey Anytime
Armed with these techniques for reheating smoked turkey, you’ll be able to enjoy tasty leftovers for days after the initial cooking. The keys are going low and slow when reheating, keeping moisture sealed in, monitoring temperature carefully, and following basic food safety practices.
In no time, you’ll be an expert at reheating smoked turkey whole or in parts. With the right handling, your delicious smoked turkey will seem as fresh as the day you first cooked it. Get ready to enjoy those easy smoked turkey sandwiches and casseroles without drying out or overcooking this lean protein.
