As the holiday season approaches, many people start planning their holiday meals and thinking about where to purchase the main protein centerpiece – the turkey. For large gatherings, buying a whole turkey is often the most economical option. With multiple warehouse club stores to choose from, a common question arises: Does Costco sell whole smoked turkeys?
Quick Answer
Yes, Costco does sell whole smoked turkeys, especially around the holiday season leading up to Thanksgiving and Christmas. They are available frozen and fresh, in a variety of sizes ranging from 10 to 24 pounds to feed gatherings small and large.
Costco Turkey Options
Costco sells a wide variety of turkey options from September through December each year, including:
- Fresh whole turkeys – both kosher and non-kosher varieties
- Frozen whole turkeys – including popular butterball brands
- Turkey breasts – bone-in and boneless, smoked and non-smoked
- Smoked whole turkeys – fully cooked for easy reheating
- Turkey wing packs and turkey leg packs
- Ground turkey – several sizes and fat contents
The fresh whole turkeys come directly from the farm to the Costco store several times a week during the holiday season. The frozen whole turkeys, smoked turkeys, and turkey parts are available year round. With so many options to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect turkey centerpiece for your holiday meal at Costco.
Availability of Smoked Whole Turkeys
Smoked whole turkeys are a popular choice because they are fully cooked and only require reheating on the big day. This saves cooks the hassle and frees up oven space. Costco carries the Kirkland Signature Smoked Whole Turkey, its premium house brand, at select warehouse locations.
The availability depends on location, but they generally arrive in stock sometime in October or early November. Quantities are limited and they often sell out completely before Thanksgiving. So if you want a smoked turkey from Costco, it’s best to shop early. Check with your local Costco for availability.
Kirkland Smoked Turkey Features
- Comes frozen
- Average weight 12-24 lbs
- Requires 3-4 days thawing in refrigerator
- Ships fresh, then slow smoked for full flavor
- Glazed with real turkey broth and seasalt
- No antibiotics, steroids, or animal by-products
Are Costco Turkeys a Good Deal?
Costco turkeys are generally priced competitively compared to other grocery stores. As a membership warehouse club, they are able to buy whole turkeys in bulk directly from processors and farms and pass the savings along to customers.
Some example Costco whole turkey prices:
| Turkey Type | Weight Range | Avg Price per lb |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh Whole Turkey | 10 – 24 lbs | $1.49 – $2.99 |
| Frozen Whole Turkey | 10 – 24 lbs | $0.99 – $1.49 |
| Smoked Whole Turkey | 12 – 24 lbs | $2.49 – $2.99 |
As you can see, the prices per pound for fresh and frozen whole turkeys are very competitively priced compared to average supermarket prices. The smoked turkeys command a higher price due to being fully cooked and glazed, but are still very reasonably priced for the convenience they offer.
Turkey Size Recommendations
Choosing what size turkey to buy for your holiday meal can be tricky. Here are some general turkey size guidelines based on number of guests:
| Number of Guests | Recommended Turkey Size |
|---|---|
| 4-8 | 10-12 lbs |
| 8-12 | 12-14 lbs |
| 12-16 | 14-16 lbs |
| 16-20 | 18-20 lbs |
| 20-24 | 20-24 lbs |
In general plan for 1 – 1 1/2 pounds of uncooked turkey per person. Adjust up slightly for appetites, leftovers, and if serving an older bird which cooks down more. For smoked turkeys, plan for 3/4 pound per person since it is pre-cooked.
Buying Tip
If feeding a crowd, consider buying 2 smaller turkeys rather than one giant bird. Two 12-14 lb turkeys cook more evenly than one 20+ lb turkey monster. Just remember to leave room in your oven for multiple pans.
How to Cook a Turkey from Frozen
Many whole turkey options at Costco are frozen. Here are some tips for cooking a frozen turkey:
- Allow 1-2 days for every 4-5 lbs of turkey to thaw in the refrigerator. Place it on a tray to catch drips.
- Do not thaw at room temperature or in warm water due to food safety concerns.
- Check your appliance manual to see if you can cook a turkey from completely frozen. If so, add 50% more cooking time.
- Optionally, cook from partially thawed. Thaw for 2 days in fridge then finish thawing in cold water.
- Cook as you normally would following standard roasting directions.
- Use a meat thermometer to verify internal temperature reaches 165°F in the thickest part of the breast and thigh.
How to Cook a Smoked Turkey
Smoked whole turkeys from Costco just need to be reheated. Follow these tips:
- Thaw turkey completely over 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
- Leave turkey wrapped and place on a rimmed baking sheet.
- Heat oven to 325°F. Heat for 10-15 min per lb until 165°F internal temp.
- Optional: Brush with oils or broth for more flavor and moisture.
- Let rest 20+ minutes before carving.
The fully cooked turkey only takes 1-2 hours total to reheat. Use a meat thermometer to confirm safe internal temperature. Cover with foil to prevent overbrowning if needed during reheating.
Get the Best Turkey at Costco
Here are some final tips for picking the best turkey at Costco:
- Shop early for best selection
- Inspect packaging for any leaks, tears, or ice crystals
- Check expiration date to ensure freshness
- Make sure frozen turkey is completely hard frozen
- Plan ahead and thaw turkey safely in the fridge
Conclusion
Costco is a great place to purchase holiday whole turkeys at competitive prices. They offer fresh and frozen whole turkeys, as well as smoked turkey options that are ready to heat and serve. Sizes range from 10-24+ pounds to feed any size gathering. Follow proper thawing and cooking instructions to safely prepare your Costco turkey. With some planning, you can serve a delicious whole turkey from Costco this holiday season.