The turkey is already fully cooked because it was slow-roasted. All that’s left to do is reheat and brown the bird.
In the oven – 1. Preheat oven to 350° 2. Pour a layer of chicken broth or water into the bottom of the pan. Cover turkey with foil and roast for 12 mintues per lb (10-12-Roasted 2-2. 5 hours/12-14-Smoked 2. 5-3 hours). Take off the lid and baste the bird with pan juices or butter. Roast for another half hour, or until the temperature inside the breasts reaches 165°F. (Using a leave in thermometer is best for reheating your turkey. Because every oven works a little differently, this will help you avoid a turkey that is either too cold in the middle or too cooked through. ) 3. Remove bird from oven and let rest 20-30 minutes before serving.
Reheating a fully cooked turkey can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be with the right techniques. Whether you bought a pre-cooked turkey or cooked your turkey ahead of time, proper reheating is key to ensuring your turkey stays juicy and flavorful.
Why Reheat a Turkey?
There are several good reasons to reheat a fully cooked turkey rather than roasting a fresh one
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Save time – Roasting a turkey takes hours, while reheating only takes about an hour. This frees up your oven and time for other dishes.
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Make ahead – You can cook your turkey in advance so you’re not rushed on the big day.
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Buy pre-cooked – Grocery stores sell ready-to-eat turkeys you just have to reheat. Easy!
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Cook consistently – If roasting turkey intimidates you, buying pre-cooked guarantees moist, flavorful meat
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Free up oven space – You can reheat the turkey while cooking other items that need more attention.
Tips for Reheating Turkey
Follow these simple tips for reheating turkey perfectly every time:
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Use a meat thermometer – This allows you to monitor the internal temperature and ensure the turkey reaches a safe 165°F throughout.
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Keep it moist – Add broth or stock and cover with foil to prevent the turkey from drying out.
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Reheat slowly – Heat the oven to only 325°F. High heat will dry out and toughen the meat.
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Let it rest – Allow the turkey to sit 15-30 minutes after reheating so juices can absorb back into the meat.
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Watch the skin – If needed, crisp the skin under the broiler for a few minutes after reheating.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps for flawlessly reheated turkey:
1. Remove Turkey from Fridge
Take turkey out of refrigerator and remove any packaging. Let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to 1 hour before reheating.
2. Prepare Turkey
Place turkey in a roasting pan. For extra moisture, pour chicken, turkey, or vegetable broth or stock over turkey.
3. Cover Turkey
Cover entire turkey tightly with aluminum foil to lock in moisture.
4. Reheat Turkey
Preheat oven to 325°F. Bake turkey 45 minutes to 1 hour, until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
5. Rest and Crisp Skin
Remove turkey from oven, take off foil, and let rest 15-30 minutes. If skin needs crisping, broil 3-5 minutes.
6. Carve and Serve
Carve turkey and serve immediately. Enjoy your perfectly reheated turkey!
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions about reheating turkey? Here are some common FAQs:
How long does it take to reheat a cooked turkey?
- Plan on 45 minutes to 1 hour at 325°F for a 10-15 lb turkey. Use a meat thermometer to confirm it reaches 165°F.
Can I reheat turkey at a higher temperature?
- It’s best to use 325°F or lower. Higher heat will dry out the meat. Just allow more time if needed.
Should I reheat turkey breast-side up or down?
- Breast-side down allows juices to baste the breast meat. Breast-side up helps crisp the skin. Either works!
Can I reheat turkey in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?
- Yes, just make sure to use broth/stock and cook on low until heated through.
How can I crisp up the skin after reheating?
- Broil the turkey 3-5 minutes after reheating or use a kitchen torch to crisp the skin.
Enjoy Flavorful Leftovers
With proper reheating, you can look forward to delicious leftover turkey for sandwiches, casseroles, soup, and more! Simply store turkey in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze for longer storage. Reheat leftovers in the microwave or oven until hot.
Reheating a fully cooked turkey may seem difficult, but have no fear! Follow these tips and techniques for reheating turkey success. Your guests will be amazed at your perfectly juicy, flavorful holiday bird.
