How to Heat a Whole Smoked Turkey

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Things You'll Need

  • Roaster pan

  • Aluminum foil

  • Digital meat thermometer (instant read)

A smoked turkey simplifies the preparation process.

The benefit of a smoked turkey is that the bird does not require cooking. When you purchase a smoked whole turkey, you have a completely cooked turkey that is essentially ready to eat. Although some people eat smoked turkey cold, you may prefer warming it before serving. You can heat a whole smoked turkey gently in the oven before serving it for a special meal. The simplicity of preparing smoked turkey may allow you to focus your energy on other parts of the meal.

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Step 1

Remove the turkey from its packaging. If the turkey is enclosed in netting, snip this off before warming the turkey.

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Step 2

Place the turkey into the roaster pan with the breast facing up. Pour 1/4-cup water into the bottom of the pan to keep the meat moist.

Step 3

Cover the turkey with aluminum foil by spreading a large sheet over the entire roaster pan and sealing it around the edges.

Step 4

Place the turkey into a 325 degree Fahrenheit oven and plan to warm the turkey for between 10 and 15 minutes per pound. For example, if you have a 12 pound turkey, you will need to warm it for between two and three hours.

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Step 5

Check the internal temperature of the turkey after warming it for about 1 1/2 hours by inserting the meat thermometer into the breast. Remove the turkey from the oven when the thermometer reads 120 degrees Fahrenheit.

Tip

Carve the turkey in the usual fashion after warming it.

Warning

Do not warm the turkey past 120 degrees Fahrenheit or it may dry out.

Check out this related video from ExpertVillage on Youtube

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