Smoking a Turkey on Traeger: Tips for a Perfect Holiday Feast

June 20, 2024 2 min read

Smoking a Turkey on Traeger: Tips for a Perfect Holiday Feast

Thanksgiving is synonymous with turkey, and there's no better way to impress your guests than by serving a perfectly smoked bird. Traeger Grills provides an exceptional recipe for an ultimate smoked turkey that promises juicy meat, a crispy exterior, and a delightful smoky flavor. This guide takes you through the process, ensuring your turkey is the star of the dinner table.

Ingredients:

  • 1 (18-20 lb) turkey
  • 1 Traeger Orange Brine and Turkey Rub Kit
  • 1/2 cup Traeger Pork & Poultry Rub
  • 1/2 pound butter, softened
  • Apple wood pellets

Preparation Steps:

  1. Brining the Turkey:

    • One day before cooking, brine the turkey using the Traeger Turkey Brine Kit as per the package directions.
    • After brining, rinse the turkey and pat it dry.
  2. Seasoning:

    • Season the inside cavity of the turkey with 2 tablespoons of Traeger Pork & Poultry Rub. Reserve the rest for the exterior.
    • Create a pocket by separating the skin from the breast, then stuff the softened butter under the skin, covering the entire breast with a 1/4-inch thickness of butter.
    • Rub the remaining seasoning on the exterior of the turkey.
  3. Chilling:

    • Transfer the seasoned turkey to the fridge and let it chill for at least 1 hour.
  4. Cooking:

    • Preheat the Traeger grill to 225℉ with the lid closed for 15 minutes. Use Super Smoke if available for optimal flavor.
    • Place the turkey in a roasting pan and set it directly on the grill grate.
    • Cook until the internal temperature reaches 100-110℉.
    • Increase the grill temperature to 350℉ and continue cooking until an instant-read thermometer reads 160℉ in the thickest part of the breast (this will take about 3-4 hours total cook time).
  5. Resting:

    • Remove the turkey from the grill once it reaches the desired temperature.
    • Let the turkey rest for at least 30 minutes before carving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Final Tips:

  • Monitoring Temperature: Check the turkey's temperature every 30 minutes after increasing the grill's temperature to ensure it cooks evenly.
  • Carving: Properly carving the turkey will ensure each slice is juicy and flavorful.
  • Presentation: Garnish your turkey platter with fresh herbs and citrus slices for an added touch of elegance.

By following this detailed guide, you'll create a smoked turkey that's not only delicious but also a showstopper for your Thanksgiving feast. Enjoy the rich flavors and the compliments from your guests!


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