Planning a turkey this year? Let us help you find the perfect bird for your table.
Buying the right turkey can mean the difference between a good Thanksgiving and a legendary Thanksgiving. And while you can’t go wrong with any of our birds, shopping for a specific size or certification can be tricky. Rest assured, we’re here to help simplify the process. Below, learn more about our birds, plus get expert buying and storing tips.
As Thanksgiving approaches, many people start searching for places to buy a pre-cooked turkey rather than roasting their own. Cooking an entire turkey is time consuming, and buying one ready-to-eat makes holiday hosting much simpler. Luckily, there are several options for purchasing fully cooked turkeys from retailers near you.
Grocery Store Deli Sections
One of the easiest places to find cooked turkeys is right at your local grocery store’s deli counter. Major chains like Kroger Safeway Publix, and more have holiday meals you can order ahead of time and simply pick up a day or two before Thanksgiving.
These turkey dinners typically come with sides like mashed potatoes, stuffing, gravy, rolls, and more All you need to do is reheat the items at home Ordering a few days in advance ensures the store has your turkey meal ready for the big day.
Grocery store deli turkey dinners feed 6-12 people usually The sizes range from 10-22 pounds pre-cooked Expect to spend $50-100 on a turkey dinner package based on the size,
Warehouse Clubs
Warehouse stores like Costco, Sam’s Club, and BJ’s are fantastic options for buying a fully cooked turkey as well as all your Thanksgiving sides. Their deli sections have complete holiday meals you can order ahead and pick up when convenient.
The turkey options at warehouse clubs are often quite large, feeding 12 people or more. You can find birds up to 18 pounds already roasted and ready to slice. Pricing is very affordable too, usually under $3 per pound for a quality pre-cooked turkey.
Local Butcher Shops or Farmers Markets
Check with local butcher shops or farmers markets in your area to see if they sell cooked turkeys for the holidays. Many butcher shops will smoke or roast turkeys to order around Thanksgiving.
The availability depends on the individual butcher, so call ahead to inquire. You’ll get a delicious fully cooked artisan turkey for a reasonable price. Plus you’ll be supporting a local business!
Catering Companies
Full service catering companies are another source for purchasing ready-to-serve turkeys and complete meals. Caterers will cook, slice, and arrange the turkey so all you have to do is set the table when guests arrive.
Catered Thanksgiving feasts are on the pricier side, but take almost all the work out of holiday hosting. Let them know your guest count and dietary restrictions and the caterers will take care of the rest!
Gourmet Markets or Specialty Food Stores
Upscale gourmet markets or specialty food stores may carry fully cooked turkey entrees you can order for Thanksgiving dinner. These turkeys are usually smaller, premium birds that have been seasoned and roasted to perfection.
Expect to pay a higher price for gourmet pre-cooked turkeys, but you’ll be getting an exceptionally tasty artisan-quality bird. The sides and trimmings will also be a step above standard grocery store options.
Ordering Online
There are several online retailers that ship fully cooked turkeys and complete Thanksgiving feasts nationwide. Brands like Harry & David, Williams-Sonoma, Omaha Steaks, and others sell holiday meal packages you can order online and have conveniently delivered frozen or chilled.
Make sure to check the shipping deadlines to get your meal kit in time for Thanksgiving dinner. Depending on where you live, you may need to order 2 weeks in advance. Prepare your turkey as directed when it arrives.
Ask Friends or Family
Don’t overlook asking friends or family members if they know where you can purchase a pre-made turkey nearby. Word of mouth recommendations from people you trust are always a great resource.
Someone may know the perfect local butcher or deli that sells delicious cooked turkeys you aren’t aware of yet. A personal referral can steer you towards the best ready-to-eat turkey in town.
With so many options available, buying a fully cooked turkey for Thanksgiving dinner couldn’t be easier. Check around town at grocery stores, clubs, markets, caterers and more to find the perfect turkey to make your holiday meal stress-free.
How Much Turkey Do You Need?
When buying your turkey, go for more than what you really need (because who doesn’t love turkey leftovers?). Even so, consider the size of your fridge and oven before coming home with a huge bird. Here’s how to plan your order based on the number of people you’re feeding.
Turkey Size |
Serves |
---|---|
8–10 pounds (bone-in breast) |
4 people |
12–14 pounds |
6 people |
20–24 pounds |
12 people |
Rule of thumb: 2 pounds of turkey per person, but start with 8 to 10 pounds for four people.
How to Thaw a Frozen Turkey
If you do choose one of our frozen birds, make sure to leave plenty of time for thawing. Use this handy chart to plan ahead.
Turkey Size |
Days in Fridge |
Hours in Cold Water |
---|---|---|
14 pounds |
3 |
7 |
20 pounds |
4 |
10 |
We recommend thawing your turkey one of two ways:
Most Reliable Way: Put a tray or pan underneath the bird (in its packaging) to catch drips and place it in the refrigerator on the lowest shelf for 1 full day for every 5 pounds of turkey.
Fastest Way: Short on time or fridge space? This is your best option. Make sure the turkey is sealed in a leakproof wrapper and place it in a vessel large enough to completely contain it. Add cold water to cover. Change the water every 30 minutes and allow 30 minutes of thawing time per pound.
Need to stock up on turkey essentials like spices, fresh herbs and more? You can shop holiday groceries for pickup or delivery opens in a new tab with Prime.¹
For plenty of inspiration, check out our Turkey Recipe Collection for menu ideas and our Essential Turkey Cooking Tips for expert pointers.
Keeping You Posted: 5 places to get a pre-cooked turkey dinner #TheNowTampaBay
FAQ
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