Where to buy Thanksgiving dinner: Best restaurants and supermarkets offering pre-made meals

Many people may need more time or culinary skills to prepare an elaborate Thanksgiving feast from scratch. Fortunately, numerous national restaurants and grocery stores provide convenient options for pre-made Thanksgiving dinners or meal packages. This allows families to enjoy a festive meal without extensive preparation.

 These options usually include traditional favorites such as roasted turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie, all expertly prepared and ready to serve. This makes it easy for anyone to gather around the table and celebrate the holiday in a relaxed and enjoyable way. 

Here's a rundown of where you can find a ready-to-enjoy Thanksgiving meal this year, ensuring a delightful experience without the hassle of cooking.

Top Restaurants Offering Pre-Made Thanksgiving Meals

Boston Market

• Known for its homestyle cooking, Boston Market offers full Thanksgiving spreads. Their "Heat & Serve" meals include turkey or ham, mashed potatoes, stuffing, cranberry sauce, rolls, and pies. You can order online and pick it up or have it delivered.

Cracker Barrel

• Cracker Barrel offers a "Heat n' Serve Family Meal To-Go" that feeds up to 10 people. It includes turkey, dressing, gravy, cranberry relish, and a choice of sides and dessert. Place your order early, as these meals are trendy.

Denny's

• Denny's has holiday meal packs for smaller groups or those seeking an affordable option. These include sliced turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and a slice of pie, perfect for a no-fuss celebration.

Buca di Beppo

• Buca di Beppo offers a Thanksgiving dinner with turkey, sides, and signature pasta dishes if you're craving an Italian twist on Thanksgiving. 

Best Supermarkets for Pre-Made Thanksgiving Meals

Whole Foods Market

• Whole Foods' Thanksgiving dinner packages cater to all preferences, including vegan and gluten-free options. Their traditional package features organic turkey, sides like green bean casserole, sweet potato mash, and classic pumpkin pie. Pre-order online and pick up at your nearest store.

Costco

• Costco offers pre-made Thanksgiving feasts at a budget-friendly price. Their kits include pre-cooked turkey, mashed potatoes, and stuffing, all in generous portions for larger families.

Trader Joe's

• Trader Joe's is an excellent option for those seeking à la carte Thanksgiving essentials. From pre-cooked turkey breasts to gourmet sides like cornbread stuffing and cranberry sauce, you can mix and match to customize your meal.

Kroger

• Kroger offers Thanksgiving meal bundles for 4-10 people. These bundles include turkey, ham, or both, alongside various sides and pies. The meals are pre-cooked and only require reheating.

Specialty Stores for Unique Thanksgiving Options

Harry & David

• Known for their gourmet foods, Harry & David offers premium Thanksgiving meal packages shipped directly to your door. Their selections include turkey, trimmings, and signature desserts like cheesecake and moose munch.

The Honey Baked Ham Company

• While best known for its ham, this company also offers roasted or smoked turkey breast Thanksgiving meals with stuffing, mashed potatoes, and pecan pie—Pre-order for pick-up or delivery.

Williams Sonoma

• Williams Sonoma partners with top chefs to provide high-quality Thanksgiving meal kits, including pre-brined turkeys and gourmet sides. These kits are ideal for those seeking a luxurious holiday meal with minimal effort.

Tips for Ordering a Pre-Made Thanksgiving Dinner

1. Order Early: Thanksgiving meals are trendy and can sell out quickly. Check deadlines for pre-ordering.
2. Check Pick-Up or Delivery Options: Many places offer curbside pick-up or delivery to accommodate your schedule.
3. Read Reviews: Choose trusted providers to ensure the quality of your Thanksgiving feast.
4. Consider Dietary Needs: Many retailers offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options to suit your guests.