Discover how to cook a turkey on your smoker (we used a Traeger) and learn how to make the perfect Thanksgiving bird: smoked spatchcock turkey. This smoked spatchcock turkey recipe is easy to make, delicious and packed with flavor!.
Spatchcocking a turkey is a game-changer for Thanksgiving or any holiday feast. This method involves removing the backbone and flattening the bird, resulting in faster cooking and a more evenly cooked, juicy turkey. But the key to success lies in knowing how long to smoke a spatchcock turkey at 225 degrees Fahrenheit.
Here’s your ultimate guide to smoking a spatchcock turkey at 225°F:
Average Smoking Time:
- 11-13 minutes per pound is the general rule of thumb.
- This means a 10-pound turkey takes roughly 2 hours and 10 minutes, while a 12-pound turkey takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes.
Factors Affecting Smoking Time:
- Outdoor temperature: Colder temperatures may require slightly longer smoking times.
- Humidity: High humidity can also extend the smoking process.
- Wind: Windy conditions can affect the smoker’s temperature, leading to variations in cooking time.
- Hot spots: Your smoker may have hot spots that cook the turkey faster in certain areas.
- Internal temperature: Ultimately, the turkey’s internal temperature is the most reliable indicator of doneness.
Tips for Smoking a Spatchcock Turkey at 225°F:
- Brining: Consider brining your turkey for 8-24 hours to add flavor and moisture.
- Seasoning: Use your favorite turkey rub or create your own blend of spices.
- Smoking wood: Hickory or mesquite are excellent choices for smoking turkey.
- Temperature monitoring: Use a reliable meat thermometer to track the turkey’s internal temperature.
- Resting: Allow the turkey to rest for 30 minutes after smoking to ensure juicy results.
Additional Resources:
- The Wooden Skillet’s Smoked Spatchcock Turkey recipe: This recipe provides detailed instructions on spatchcocking, seasoning, and smoking your turkey.
- BBQ Revolt’s guide on How Long to Smoke a Spatchcock Turkey at 225: This guide offers additional insights into smoking times and factors affecting the process.
Remember:
- Cooking times are estimates, and it’s crucial to rely on the turkey’s internal temperature for accuracy.
- Adjust smoking times based on the specific weight of your turkey and the factors mentioned above.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and smoking woods to find your perfect flavor profile.
With these tips and resources you’ll be well on your way to smoking a delicious juicy spatchcock turkey that will impress your guests and become a Thanksgiving tradition.
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How to Prep a Spatchcock Turkey for the Smoker
- Optional: Brine your turkey. While it’s not required, brining your bird can give it more flavor and moisture. Here are some excellent options for turkey brine: smoked and apple cider. Remember that these require at least 24 hours, so make appropriate plans.
- Pat turkey dry with clean paper towel.
- For more information, see the section below. We also have a comprehensive tutorial on how to patchcock a turkey.
- Use chicken broth, white wine, herbs, onions, and citrus to prepare your roasting pan.
- Place your spatchcocked turkey in the roasting pan.
- Apply butter all over the turkey, making sure to get under the skin as well.
- Season: We adore this Smoked Turkey Dry Rub or this Turkey Seasoning.
- You are ready to go!
Leftover Smoked Turkey Ideas
Here are a few quick and delectable recipes for leftover smoked turkey that you might find useful in the days after Thanksgiving:
Store leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 4 days.