Updated 11/18/25- Turkeys have arrived

46 million turkeys are consumed on Thanksgiving Day, according to the University of Illinois Extension. That number may be astounding, but it’s not the only time this giant bird will grace our tables. Millions of people enjoy turkey, and the warehouse plays a significant role in getting them on the table. Many Americans get their turkeys, appetizers, sides, and pumpkin pie at Costco.

If you’re wondering what types of turkeys Costco sells, how much they cost, or which one is right for your family, this guide answers every question clearly and simply.

This is your complete 2025 Costco Turkey Guide.

🦃 Key Takeaways

• Costco sells four main types of turkey during Thanksgiving: Butterball whole turkeys, Plainville Farms organic turkeys, Kirkland Signature Smoked Turkey, and Kirkland Signature Turkey Breast.
• Most Costco turkeys are fresh, not frozen, and pricing varies by region.
• Butterball turkeys are the most budget-friendly, usually around 99 cents per pound.
• Plainville Farms Organic Young Turkeys are ideal if you want organic, antibiotic-free meat.
• Kirkland Signature Smoked Turkey is fully cooked and perfect for busy hosts or last-minute plans.
• Kirkland Signature Turkey Breast is the best option for couples and small gatherings.

What Brand Of Turkey Does Costco Sell?

Costco typically carries three brands and multiple styles of turkey during the holiday season.

• Kirkland Signature Smoked Turkey (Fully cooked)
• Kirkland Signature Turkey Breast (Fully cooked)
• Plainville Farms Organic Young Hen Turkey (Fresh)
• Butterball Whole Turkey (Hens and Toms — Fresh)

Note: Butterball Hen Turkey is not available in 2025 based on current warehouse reports.

Brand	Size	Cost	Fresh (NOT FROZEN)	Precooked?
Kirkland Signature Smoked Turkey	Approx. 13-16 lbs.	$4.29 lb.	YES	YES
Kirkland Signature Turkey Breast	Usually 4lbs. or less	$4.79 lb.	YES	YES
Plainville Farms Young Organic Hen Turkey	16lbs. and under	$2.99 lb.	YES	NO
Butterball Hen Turkey	10lbs. to 14lbs.	(NOT AVAILABLE IN 2025)	YES	NO
Butterball Tom Turkey	Typically over 18lbs.	.99 lb.	YES	NO
Empire Kosher Young Turkey	14-16 lbs.	$3.59 lb.	NO	NO

Hen vs. Tom: What’s the Difference?

Taste & tenderness are the same — size is the only difference.
Hens = female, typically 10–14 pounds
Toms = male, typically 16–22+ pounds

Butterball Tom Turkey 

Costco’s Butterball Tom Turkeys are one of the best Thanksgiving deals. At 99 cents per pound, they’re often over $0.60 cheaper per pound than local grocery stores.

Most Butterball toms at Costco weigh 18 pounds or more, perfect for feeding a crowd.

Product Details

• Fresh, not frozen
• Gluten-free
• Raised without hormones
• Fully brined (up to 4% water, salt, spices)
• Not cooked — must be roasted

Savings Example:
A 16-lb Butterball turkey at Costco saves you $9.60 (37%) compared to grocery store pricing.

Costco Smoked Turkey

The Kirkland Signature Smoked Turkey is a fully cooked option that’s perfect if you’re short on time or want a flavorful main dish without babysitting a roast.

Average Size

13–16 lbs

How to Reheat

1. Preheat oven to 350°F
2. Place turkey in baking pan
3. Cover with foil
4. Heat for 12 minutes per pound
5. Cook to internal temp of 145°F

Plainville Farms Organic Young Turkey

If organic matters to you, this is your Costco pick. Plainville Farms Organic Turkeys are:

• Fresh, never frozen
• Raised on family farms
• Fed vegetarian feed
• No antibiotics or growth hormones

These turkeys are also smaller, usually under 13 lbs.

Costco Turkey Breast

Another popular option — especially for small gatherings or turkey-loving families who prefer white meat.

Highlights

• Fully cooked
• About 4 lbs or less
• Located in the deli section
• Contains water and salt solution for moisture

We have a complete review with cooking ideas.

Does Costco Have Fresh Turkey Breast?

By definition, a turkey is “fresh” if it’s never frozen below 26 degrees. Plainville Farms and Butterball turkeys are fresh, and Costco sells both, but they are whole birds, not breasts. 

Technically… no. Costco sells:

• Fresh whole turkeys (Plainville Farms and Butterball)
• Fully cooked turkey breast (Kirkland Signature)

The only turkey breast Costco sells is the Kirkland Signature Turkey Breast. While it meets the standard of not being frozen, it’s processed turkey containing salt and other preservatives.

Which Costco Turkey Is Best?

Here’s the quick guide:

Best for Busy Hosts

👉 Kirkland Signature Smoked Turkey
Fully cooked, great flavor, minimal effort.

Best Budget Option

👉 Butterball Tom Turkey
Feeds a large family for the lowest price per pound.

Best Organic Option

👉 Plainville Farms Organic Young Turkey

Best for Small Groups & Easy Meals

👉 Kirkland Signature Turkey Breast

After Choosing Your Turkey…

Make sure to pick up your:

• Thanksgiving sides
• Appetizers
• Desserts
• Dips
• Cranberry sauce
• Salad kits
• Rolls

You can shop in-store or through Costco Online (note: online prices include surcharges & delivery fees).

❓ Costco Turkey FAQ (2025)

🍁 Conclusion

Costco makes Thanksgiving shopping simple, affordable, and stress-free — especially when it comes to turkey. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or keeping it small this year, there’s a Costco turkey that fits your taste, budget, and cooking style.

To make your Thanksgiving even easier, sign up for our email list and get our FREE 10-Page Thanksgiving Planning PDF, packed with insider Costco tips.

Happy Thanksgiving and happy turkey shopping!

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