Skip the stress and savor the holiday—more than ever, people are choosing to order Thanksgiving dinner to-go, and with so many tasty, affordable options out there, it's easy to see why.
Cracker Barrel’s Heat n’ Serve Holiday meals are among the most popular nationwide. Their Thanksgiving Feast serves up to 10 people and includes turkey, dressing, gravy, cranberry relish, sides, and pies. It’s pre-cooked and designed to be heated in under two hours.
Smaller options are also available if you're hosting fewer guests. You’ll need to pre-order and pick up your meal between November 23 and 30, depending on your local store's schedule.
Publix Fully Cooked Holiday Dinners
Publix offers fully cooked Thanksgiving dinners, with packages serving between two and ten people. The traditional turkey dinner includes a whole turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes, cranberry orange relish, gravy, and pumpkin pie.
They also offer a boneless turkey breast dinner and even ham-based options. Orders can be placed online through their “Order Ahead” section, and pick-up is typically available starting a few days before Thanksgiving.
Boston Market Holiday Meals
Boston Market’s to-go meals are available as both chilled (heat-and-serve) and hot options. Their Thanksgiving Home Delivery meal includes a whole roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, cranberry relish, and dessert.
You can order for pickup or even have your meal shipped to your door. It’s a strong option for families wanting a full meal with minimal prep, even in areas without local pick-up.
Whole Foods Market Thanksgiving Catering
Whole Foods Market offers gourmet Thanksgiving meals with traditional or plant-based main courses. Packages often feature herb-roasted turkey, classic stuffing, green beans, mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pie.
Meals are fully cooked and just need reheating. Orders must be placed in advance and are available for pick-up in-store, making it a solid option for those seeking organic or dietary-conscious menus.
Local Restaurants and Caterers
Many regional restaurants and small businesses offer their own take on Thanksgiving dinner. For example, in New Jersey, dozens of restaurants are offering roasted turkey meals with all the trimmings for pickup or delivery.
These meals often include locally inspired dishes or house-made desserts, and the quality can rival homemade without the hassle. Check local listings, food blogs, or catering websites in your area for the best hidden gems.
Tips for a Smooth Pick-Up Experience
To-go meals can sell out fast—many places stop taking orders a week or more before Thanksgiving. Order early and confirm your pick-up time to avoid any last-minute stress.
Make sure you have enough oven space or warming trays if your meal includes multiple dishes that need heating. Also, check for reheating instructions so you know how long each dish takes.
If you’re serving guests with dietary restrictions, review menus ahead of time to make sure they’re included. Many providers offer gluten-free, vegetarian, or vegan options if you ask in advance.
More Time at the Table, Less in the Kitchen
Opting for a Thanksgiving dinner to-go translates to minimal preparation, less cleanup, and more quality time spent with family and friends. Whether you select a well-known spot like Cracker Barrel or go with a local caterer serving up homemade favorites, you’ll enjoy unbeatable convenience and delicious food. This holiday season, relax and let someone else handle the cooking while you savor a festive meal at home.
