:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/bridget-degnan-2000-cf9c81e6bb5b46b1b4ffa577c09b8f7e.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/slv-best-thanksgiving-turkeys-tout-babdabfa78a74bb88e0639a4d5dcb9b2.jpg)
Southern Living / Kristin Kempa
It's never too early to plan your Thanksgiving menu, especially so you aren't frantically searching for a turkey days before Thanksgiving. If you usually brave the grocery store to buy your holiday bird, consider ordering your turkey online this year.
Thanksgiving dinner features a lot of food items you can buy pretty far in advance. Raw frozen turkeys stay good in the freezer for up to two years and cooked turkeys for about three months. For Southern side dishes and desserts, you can start grabbing frozen and non-perishable goods, such as canned pumpkin and frozen cranberries. Then, when the week of Thanksgiving rolls around, all you need to purchase is fresh produce.
Not sure where to buy your turkey online? Don't worry, we've done the research for you and highlighted the best frozen and cooked turkeys you can order now that'll arrive in time for your Thanksgiving feast.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/porter-road--whole-turkey-028c8d48564b4cd7bf4800b1ad37bc17.jpg)
It’s pasture-raised to the highest standards.
It’s only available in three sizes.
This whole turkey from Porter Road is the perfect holiday bird for cooks who want a blank canvas to work on. Porter Road is known for its high quality meats, and the brand’s turkeys are no exception. Pasture-raised on farms in Tennessee and Kentucky, these turkeys are free from antibiotics and hormones—and they taste delicious. You can choose from three sizes: 10-12.5 pounds, 13-15.5 pounds, or 16-19 pounds.
Size Range: 10-19 pounds | Shipping: Free on orders over $125
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/fossil-farms-turkey-whole-bird-00782bbabbd44770b304cf2953792bd3.jpg)
There are 10 sizes to choose from.
Free shipping starts on very expensive orders.
Ordering turkeys online can get expensive, so if you’re looking for a less pricey option then we recommend the Fossil Farms Turkey Whole Bird. The birds are available in 10 different weights starting at 8 pounds, which provides around eight servings. These cage-free turkeys come from third and fourth generation family farms where they raise the turkeys in a healthy environment. Because the turkey ships frozen, allow time for it to thaw for about four days before your meal. There's one for any size crowd, from an 8-10 pound turkey up to a 28 pound bird.
Size Range: 8-28 pounds | Shipping: Free on orders over $175 for Ground or 2nd Day Air
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/harry--david--oven-roasted-turkey--c740288c5d264687885f694c42a1ac42.jpg)
There are lots of add-ons you can order with it.
It’s only available in one size, and shipping is expensive.
Harry & David doesn't just sell fruit baskets and baked goods: It also has an entire gourmet food shop where you can order succulent meats. This 10-pound oven-roasted turkey feeds about 7 people, making it a great choice for smaller gatherings. Because the bird has already been cooked to perfection, all you have to do is heat the meat back up to a safe temperature of about 165 degrees Fahrenheit. If you want to go deluxe, you can order the Gourmet Turkey Feast, which includes the oven-roasted turkey, gravy, apple sausage stuffing, black truffle and almond green beans, brown sugar sweet potatoes, spiced cranberry chutney, and pumpkin cheesecake.
Size Range: 10 pounds | Shipping: $25.99 for express 2-day shipping
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/hincks-turkey-farm--roasted-sous-vide-turkey-breast--124235238fd54e318328534298067f4d.jpg)
It arrives fully cooked and shipping is free.
It’s very expensive for the amount of turkey you get.
Sure, whole turkeys might be more traditional, but you tend to end up with bones and fatty sections that need to get tossed in the trash. If your family enjoys white breast meat, this deliciously pre-cooked turkey roast is an excellent alternative. It's brined with simple natural ingredients including garlic, bay leaf, and peppercorn, and seasoned with Hinck's special spice blend. Have a bigger crowd? Opt for the 4 pound breast to serve 8 to 10 people.
Size Range: 3.5-4.5 pounds | Shipping: Free
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/dartagnan-organic-turkey-fc98321b1b9d42c29448a73bc72c72d7.jpg)
It’s surprisingly affordable for a USDA-certified organic turkey, and comes in 7 sizes.
Shipping varies based on location and weight.
D’Artagnan is well known for its fine meats, and the brand’s USDA-certified organic turkey is one of its best options. Each turkey is raised free-range and fed a 100% organic vegetarian diet, with zero antibiotics or growth hormones. There are an impressive seven size options available, from 8-10 pounds to 20-22 pounds, so you can feed as many as 18 people. If you don’t want to spend as much on an organic turkey, the brand’s Green Circle Turkey or Heritage Turkey.
Size Range: 8-22 pounds | Shipping: Varies
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/the-shed--whole-smoked-turkey--117b00bd695246d3b903611d8440eb45.jpg)
It comes with a packet of au jus.
It’s only available in one size.
This turkey tastes like fall thanks to its sweet, spicy, and smoky flavors. Mississippi barbecue joint The Shed slowly smokes the bird over pecan wood and seasons it with an award-winning rub, which is a blend of brown sugar and various spices. If that wasn't enough, the company also sends a packet of au jus to keep the turkey extra juicy while cooking. Best of all, this pre-cooked beauty takes less than an hour to heat in the oven.
Size Range: 10-12 pounds | Shipping: Free
Best Fried Thanksgiving Turkey
The Cajun Turkey Company Lightly Seasoned Cajun Fried Turkey
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/the-cajun-turkey-company--lightly-seasoned-cajun-fried-turkey--7186bf67e53544d1b09764be16cc25e7.jpg)
Goldbelly
You can choose between mild and spicy varieties.
It only comes in one size.
The Cajun Turkey Company has been frying turkeys since 1994, so it's fair to say your holiday bird is in good hands. Before deep-frying the meat, the company seasons the hand-selected turkeys with a Cajun-inspired family recipe. This spicy kick paired with a crispy golden crust equals pure bliss in every bite. This is the lightly seasoned version, but there’s also a spicy version if you want your turkey to be hot. The turkey ships frozen and needs to thaw in the fridge for 72 hours before heating it in the oven.
Size Range: 10-12 pounds | Shipping: Free
Best Cooked Thanksgiving Turkey
Williams Sonoma Willie Bird Fresh Free-Range Pre-Brined Organic Turkey
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/williams-sonoma-willie-bird-fresh-free-range-pre-brined-organic-turkey-4aef58e83ae44289955618ebfe935ce8.jpg)
Williams Sonoma
You can add on sides to your order.
It’s one of the most expensive options on our list, and has a high shipping fee.
Williams Sonoma is your one-stop shop for entertaining during the holidays. The high-end home store offers cooking essentials, bakeware, decor, and, most importantly, food. As a host, cooking the turkey for Thanksgiving certainly takes up most of your time and attention. Luckily, Williams Sonoma offers cooked turkeys that will arrive at your door just in time for Thanksgiving Day. This organic and pre-brined bird comes chilled so you get to skip the thawing process.
Size Range: 10-22 pounds | Shipping: From $24 based on total order value; plus $15 surcharge
Best Stuffed Thanksgiving Turkey
Hebert's Specialty Meats Large Turducken With Cajun Pork Cornbread Stuffing
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/heberts-specialty-meats--large-turducken-with-cajun-pork-cornbread-stuffing-6f342be4963f4a0ab737e53077b6b87c.jpg)
Goldbelly
It provides 25 servings.
It might be too much for the average Thanksgiving dinner.
If you want something extra hearty, look no further than this tasty trifecta of meat. The Thanksgiving "Turducken" from Hebert's Specialty Meats is essentially a deboned turkey stuffed with boneless duck, chicken, and Cajun-style cornbread stuffing. It takes three days to thaw in the fridge and five hours to cook in the oven, but it's so worth it. This enormous piece of meat provides 25 servings.
Size Range: 16 pounds | Shipping: Free
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/4-rivers-smokehouse--whole-smoked-turkey-c0bf6f82049a4d0a8af173de41f7986e.jpg)
It arrives fully cooked.
You can add a side to your order, but there are only two options.
Ah, Thanksgiving leftovers! If you're a fan of turkey sandwiches and casseroles, consider ordering this 14- to 16-pound whole turkey from 4 Rivers Smokehouse. The plump bird provides enough meat for up to 18 servings. It's seasoned with a fragrant blend of thyme, sage, and rosemary that will fill your home with holiday scents. For an extra $20, you can add Texas-style jalapeño cornbread.
Size Range: 14-16 pounds | Shipping: Free
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/harry--david-sliced-ham-and-turkey-sampler-0f4410e719a544e09ca3a738333901d6.jpg)
It arrives cooked.
It’s expensive for what you get, and shipping costs are high.
There are always a variety of Thanksgiving sides, so why not offer a few different meat options? This ham and turkey bundle from Harry & David includes a 2-pound spiral-sliced ham and a 2-pound spiral-sliced turkey breast, which all together feeds about six people. The boneless meats are easy to cook, slice, and eat.
Size Range: 4 pounds total | Shipping: $21.99 for express 2-day shipping
Best Complete Thanksgiving Turkey Dinner
Harry & David Create Your Own Gourmet Turkey Feast
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/harry--david--create-your-own-gourmet-turkey-feast-100ce1cad55745d3b805526a0ee62c6c.jpg)
Harry & David
There are a plethora of sides to choose from.
The turkey only comes in one size.
Don't feel like cooking this year? Harry & David's Create Your Own Gourmet Turkey Feast is a great deal. Providing between 8-10 servings, the holiday dinner comes with one roasted turkey, one appetizer, two side dishes, and one dessert as well as cranberry sauce and gravy. Some of the standout sides include sundried tomato truffle mac and cheese, Gruyère garlic red mashed potatoes, and apple sausage walnut stuffing. For dessert, blueberry peach crisp is a must.
Size Range: Serves 8-10 | Shipping: 17% of order total
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/hellofresh--thanksgiving-box-aa562c9eb6c2422ab328ac84cfef2c38.jpg)
You don’t have to be a HelloFresh member to order.
You can’t customize your box.
HelloFresh’s annual Thanksgiving Box will be available for preorder until November 16 or while supplies last. This holiday box tends to sell out, so make sure to get yours as soon as you can. There are two options to choose from: A Traditional Turkey + Sides Box and a Beef Tenderloin + Sides Box. The turkey kit serves 8-10 people while the beef option feeds between 4-6 guests. Both boxes come with apple ginger crisp for dessert. The best part? You don't have to be a HelloFresh member to buy this limited-time meal kit.
Size Range: Serves 8-10 | Shipping: Varies
The Bottom Line
Overall, we think the Porter Road Whole Turkey is the best choice if you want to order a quality turkey online. There are three sizes to choose from, so you’re sure to find a bird that can feed whatever type of Thanksgiving gathering you’re hosting. Plus, the birds are raised in a cage-free environment in Tennessee or Kentucky, and are fed a vegetarian diet that’s free from antibiotics and hormones.
Questions and Answers
When should I order a Thanksgiving turkey?
Generally, you don't need to buy your turkey until about a week before Thanksgiving. However, between shipping delays and poultry shortages, planning ahead is key this holiday season. Grocery stores might not have the size or type of turkey you want, which is why we suggest ordering yours online today.
How much turkey per person should I have for Thanksgiving?
Estimate about 1-1..5 pounds of meat per person, taking into account that whole turkeys have extra weight from bones. For a party of 10, you should order at least a 15-pound whole turkey. For smaller crowds, you might want to try a turkey breast. A 4-pound breast provides about six to eight servings. Our recommendation? The bigger the better for those who love Thanksgiving leftovers.
How long does it take to thaw a turkey?
Allow one day of thawing for every 4 to 5 pounds. This means a 16-pound turkey takes about four days to thaw in the refrigerator. Before placing it in the oven, let the defrosted turkey rest at room temperature for at least an hour.
How long does it take to cook a turkey?
Turkeys can take anywhere from three to five hours to cook, with unstuffed turkeys roasting quicker than stuffed birds. For example, an unstuffed 14- to 16-pound turkey takes about four hours to cook. A stuffed turkey of the same size roasts for about 15 minutes longer at four hours and 15 minutes. For moist meat, we recommend roasting your turkey slow and steady at 325 degrees Fahrenheit.
The best way to tell if your bird is done is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature of the breast should be at about 160 degrees Fahrenheit in the oven. Once you remove it and let it rest for about 20 minutes, the temperature will rise to 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Why Trust Southern Living
This article was written by Bridget Degnan, an associate editor who works across the Dotdash Meredith brands. To write this article, she researched a range of turkeys and evaluated each on their quality, range of size options, and shipping costs.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/GettyImages-144560241-2000-9b2b846a44a84e36b9b194f7119e677f.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2483701_Roast_02-9241f44ffe70480cbfaa8cf75f1832c5.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Smoked_Turkey_Breast_001-2000-c0a573f960c3466e85e16bfc356285bb.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/SLSEO-Leftover_Turkey_Casserole_180182-2000-39e686222dcf40e6b2d963a831d0223f.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Thanksgiving_Leftover_Sandwich_002-03b235f7fe6c4c8fb39e156cc214e4ca.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2582101_Smoki_001-472b3aa74d624f93bfc2521943913540.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Herb-Rubbed-Smoked-Turkey_4x3-5d3bede3fade45be8b6d4a6a03208dfe.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/27253_KBeltonTurkeyRoll-186_1x1-f1df27d69f524bc6bc5587a5b8c505dc.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/27577_Hosp_Turkey_209_preview_scale_100_ppi_150_quality_100-442e20e66d974259a01ef63d5182d56b.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/How-to-Thicken-Gravy-182c6ec346dc467c88b8fbb1175f4130-5a154e8e3dd54e3ba9cb953326e7e70e.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2648801_Spiced-_dry-brined_Turkey_298-4d4275fd02f04d1aabdb8fd634001646.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/image5-1-58e1ce7664414b488e763acba2d90e11.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/cornbread-n-squash-dressing_audit7503_beauty3x2-148-e6604d7c710c4bd38900c30ae25c3aa2.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2547202_south00003_0_0-e189a396ee48444184d77115d45d5c13.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2644701_Vanill_Bean_Custards_and_Praline_Cheesecake_127-2000-f26ef5e2b8cf487e9f9a7320613ee574.jpg)