Can You Buy a Cooked Turkey? A Guide to Purchasing Fully Cooked Turkeys

With Thanksgiving just around the corner, many people are starting to think about how they will prepare the centerpiece of the holiday meal – the turkey.Cooking a whole raw turkey can be intimidating and time-consuming. If you want to enjoy the holiday instead of spending all day in the kitchen, you may be wondering – can you buy a cooked turkey instead? The good news is that yes, fully cooked turkeys are readily available from a variety of sources. This guide will provide tips on where to buy cooked turkeys and how to choose the right one for your gathering.

Where to Buy a Fully Cooked Turkey

Here are some of the most popular places to purchase cooked turkeys

Grocery Stores

Many grocery store chains such as Kroger, Publix, and Safeway offer fully cooked turkeys during the holidays These are often found in the frozen food section Make sure to check the size options available and order your turkey ahead if possible, as availability may be limited.

Specialty Meat Stores

Stores like HoneyBaked Ham and Boston Market are known for selling high-quality precooked turkeys and other meats. Order online visit a local franchise or find their precooked turkeys at select grocery stores.

Butcher Shops

Local butcher shops are another excellent source for cooked turkeys. A neighborhood butcher may even be willing to cook a fresh turkey just for you. Ask them about brining, smoking, or other flavoring options.

Online Retailers

Websites like Omaha Steaks, Harry & David, and Cracker Barrel ship fully cooked turkeys nationwide. Order early to get your preferred delivery date. Make sure to account for thaw time if the turkey arrives frozen.

Restaurants

Some restaurants like Popeyes and Boston Market sell whole cooked turkeys during the holidays. This is an extremely convenient option but be sure to order well in advance as quantities are limited.

Local Farms

Check with local turkey farms or family farms in your area to see if they offer precooked turkey options. This allows you to support local agriculture. However, availability may be seasonal.

How to Choose the Right Precooked Turkey

Keep these tips in mind when selecting a fully cooked turkey:

• Allow 1-1.5 pounds per person. An 8-12 pound turkey feeds 8-10 people. Adjust for big eaters and leftovers.
• Make sure it’s fully cooked. Check that the turkey is already oven-roasted or smoked all the way through.
• Frozen vs. chilled. You’ll need to thaw frozen turkeys before reheating. Chilled turkeys save you this step.
• Reheating instructions. Different turkeys have different reheating methods. Follow package instructions.
• Flavoring options. Select plain, smoked, Cajun-style, or other flavor profiles based on your preference.
• Bone-in or boneless. Bone-in turkeys look great on your table but boneless cuts easier. Choose based on your plans.
• Price. Precooked turkeys can range from $40 on up. Set a budget before you shop around.
• Order date. Make sure to order or reserve your cooked turkey at least 1-2 weeks before Thanksgiving.

Reheating and Serving Precooked Turkey

Once you’ve selected your fully cooked turkey, proper reheating is important for both food safety and optimum flavor. Here are some tips:

• Let frozen turkeys thaw completely in the fridge before reheating. This takes 24 hours for every 4-5 pounds.
• For chilled precooked turkeys, you can reheat straight from the fridge. Allow 30-60 minutes per pound.
• Roast in a 325°F oven until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Tent with foil to prevent drying.
• For a browned skin, rub the turkey with oil or butter and broil for the last 5-10 minutes.
• You can also reheat in a slow cooker or slice and warm the meat in broth or gravy.
• Let the turkey rest for 15-30 minutes before carving for juicy, tender meat.
• Use the drippings to make a flavorful gravy or sauce to accompany your turkey.

With minimal effort, a precooked turkey provides you with a moist and delicious holiday centerpiece. Take the stress out of roasting and let the pros do the cooking for you. Now you can spend more time making memories with family and friends this Thanksgiving season.