This smoked turkey recipe is the perfect turkey to serve on Thanksgiving or other special occasions. The turkey is delicious and tender, and the whole bird tastes like it came from an upscale restaurant. I can guarantee this smoked turkey will take your holiday meal to the next level!.
Thanksgiving turkey cooked at home is the best! This recipe for smoked turkey won’t scare you; in fact, it will help you make the best smoked turkey you’ve ever had! Smoking a turkey can be just as easy as cooking it in your kitchen.
It is possible to prepare a smoked turkey at home using any kind of deck grill. Since you never forget your first, our first smoked turkey was actually cooked on our old gas grill and is still one of the best smoked turkeys I’ve ever had.
I now prefer to use my Camp Chef SmokePro pellet smoker because it reduces the amount of babysitting I have to do by maintaining the temperatures and smoke for me. However, you can use any kind of smoker you own, including a gas or charcoal grill, to prepare this smoked turkey. The most crucial thing is to use a grill that allows you to add wood smoke, maintain steady temperatures, and produce indirect heat.
The post below is loaded with lots of information to help you get the best smoked turkey around. Please take the time to read through the entire post before you smoke your first bird. Following all the recommendations below will help you avoid any pitfalls on the big day.
Ah, Thanksgiving. A time for family, friends, and of course, a delicious, juicy turkey. But this year, ditch the dry, overcooked bird and impress your guests with a perfectly smoked turkey that’s bursting with flavor.
Whether you’re a seasoned smoker or a complete novice, this comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process, from choosing the right turkey to achieving that perfect smoky taste.
Let’s get started!
Choosing the Right Turkey
Size: For safety reasons, it’s best to choose a turkey that’s 15 pounds or less. Smoking a larger bird can be risky, as it may spend too much time in the “danger zone” where bacteria can grow. For larger gatherings, consider smoking two smaller turkeys instead of one large one.
Brining: Brining your turkey is optional, but highly recommended. It helps to break down proteins, making the turkey more moist and tender. You can find plenty of delicious brining recipes online, or simply use a basic salt-water solution with your favorite herbs and spices.
Thawing: Plan ahead and thaw your turkey in the refrigerator for several days before smoking. Allow 1 day for every 4-5 pounds of turkey.
Prepping the Turkey
Remove the giblets: Once thawed, remove the giblets and neck from the turkey’s cavity. If your turkey is brined, rinse the exterior with cold water.
Pat it dry: Use paper towels to thoroughly pat the turkey dry. This will help the skin crisp up during smoking.
Seasoning: Rub the turkey with olive oil or melted butter, then season generously with your favorite rub. You can use a pre-made rub or create your own blend using spices like paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and herbs.
Stuffing: It’s not recommended to stuff your turkey before smoking. The stuffing won’t reach a safe temperature while the turkey cooks. Instead, add flavor by stuffing the cavity with apples, onions, and herbs. Discard these after smoking.
Setting Up Your Smoker
Temperature: Preheat your smoker to 225 degrees Fahrenheit. This will ensure slow, even cooking and prevent the turkey from drying out.
Wood chips: Use apple, cherry, or hickory wood chips for a mild, smoky flavor that complements the turkey.
Drip pan: Place a drip pan filled with water under the turkey to catch drippings and keep the smoker environment moist. This water will evaporate during the smoking process, so be prepared to refill it as needed.
Smoking the Turkey
Place the turkey on the smoker, breast side up, and close the lid. If using a gas or charcoal grill, rotate the turkey occasionally for even cooking.
Smoking time: Plan on approximately 30 minutes per pound of turkey at 225 degrees Fahrenheit. For example, a 15-pound turkey will take around 7.5 hours to cook.
Temperature check: Use an instant-read thermometer to check the turkey’s temperature in the thickest part of the thigh and breast. The turkey is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Resting: Allow the turkey to rest for 15-20 minutes before carving and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bird.
Tips and Tricks
- Use a remote thermometer: This allows you to monitor the turkey’s temperature without opening the smoker, which can cause temperature fluctuations.
- Baste the turkey: Basting with melted butter or a flavored butter mixture during the last hour of smoking can add extra flavor and moisture.
- Don’t skip the brine: Brining really does make a difference in the final texture and flavor of the turkey.
- Let the turkey rest: This is crucial for ensuring a juicy and tender bird.
- Use leftover drippings: Don’t throw away those delicious drippings! Use them to make a flavorful gravy or sauce for your Thanksgiving feast.
Smoking a whole turkey is a rewarding experience that will impress your guests and leave them wanting more. By following these simple steps and tips, you can achieve a perfectly smoked turkey that’s juicy, flavorful, and sure to become a Thanksgiving tradition.
Additional Resources
- The Recipe Critic’s Smoked Turkey Recipe: https://therecipecritic.com/smoked-turkey/
- Hey Grill Hey’s Smoked Turkey Recipe: https://heygrillhey.com/smoked-turkey/
- USDA Turkey Safety Guidelines: https://www.fsis.usda.gov/food-safety/safe-food-handling-and-preparation/meat/turkey-food-safety
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I smoke a frozen turkey?
A: It’s not recommended to smoke a frozen turkey. The uneven cooking can lead to a dry and tough bird.
Q: Can I use different wood chips?
A: Yes, you can experiment with different wood chips to find your favorite flavor profile. Mesquite, pecan, and oak are all good options for smoking turkey.
Q: How do I know if my turkey is done?
A: The best way to check if your turkey is done is to use an instant-read thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh and breast. The turkey is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Q: What should I serve with my smoked turkey?
A: Smoked turkey pairs well with classic Thanksgiving sides like mashed potatoes, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and green bean casserole. You can also get creative and try new side dishes like roasted Brussels sprouts, sweet potato casserole, or cornbread.
Q: Can I make gravy with the leftover drippings?
A: Absolutely! The drippings from your smoked turkey make a delicious and flavorful gravy. Simply whisk together the drippings with some flour and broth, then season to taste.
Q: How do I store leftover smoked turkey?
A: Leftover smoked turkey can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze leftover turkey for up to 2 months.
Q: Can I reheat leftover smoked turkey?
A: Yes, you can reheat leftover smoked turkey in the oven, microwave, or on the stovetop. Be sure to reheat the turkey until it is heated through to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Q: What can I do with leftover smoked turkey bones?
A: Don’t throw away those turkey bones! You can use them to make a delicious turkey stock or soup. Simply simmer the bones in water with your favorite vegetables and herbs.
Enjoy your delicious smoked turkey!
Stuffing a Smoked Turkey
I DO NOT recommend stuffing a turkey with dressing before smoking. Usually, the bird’s meat is overcooked by the time the stuffing inside reaches a safe temperature. To enhance the taste of your turkey, you can stuff its interior with apples, onions, herbs, or citrus. However, make sure to leave enough room for air to circulate, and dispose of any contents once you’ve finished smoking the bird.
If you plan on making stuffing alongside your turkey, try out my Smoked Sausage Stuffing recipe. It’s cooked in a cast iron skillet and is simply delicious!.
Brine and Seasoning for Smoked Turkey
Let’s talk about brining and seasoning the turkey for smoking once you’ve bought your turkey or turkeys.
- Brining. You can skip brining the turkey before smoking if you’re using a store-bought, pre-brined turkey. Prepare your own brine for your turkey if it hasn’t been brined previously. For this exact occasion, I heartily suggest my Apple Spice Smoked Turkey Brine. It’s sweet with the perfect blend of spices.
- Seasoning. Turkey tastes great with a little seasoning. Apply a basic Sweet Rub or Smoked Turkey Rub to your turkey’s exterior to enhance the flavor of real barbecue sauce and balance the smoke from the grill. My Sweet Rub is available in the Hey Grill Hey Store, so you can save some time on Thanksgiving.
Note: The bird’s skin will turn fairly dark and caramelized due to the sugar in the Sweet Rub. It is not burned! It will simply appear darker. Keep this in mind if you choose to use the Sweet Rub instead of the Turkey Rub.