Imagine serving a turkey so incredibly juicy, tender, and packed with smoky flavor that your family will be talking about it for years to come. This pellet grill smoked whole turkey isn't just a meal—it's a culinary experience that transforms an ordinary holiday dinner into an extraordinary feast. Whether you're a grilling novice or a seasoned pitmaster, this recipe will elevate your cooking game and create memories around the table that will last a lifetime.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 1 whole turkey
Ingredients
- 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- Wood pellets for smoking
Instructions
- Begin by thawing the whole turkey if it is frozen. Place it in the refrigerator for several days prior to cooking, allowing it to thaw completely.
- Once thawed, remove the turkey from its packaging and take out any giblets or neck from the cavity. Rinse the turkey under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika to create a flavorful rub.
- Rub the olive oil mixture all over the turkey, making sure to cover the entire surface and also inside the cavity. This will ensure the turkey is well-seasoned and has a delicious flavor.
- Preheat your pellet grill to 225°F (107°C). This low and slow cooking method will help infuse the turkey with a wonderful smoky flavor.
- Fill the pellet grill's hopper with wood pellets of your choice. Popular options for turkey include hickory, apple, or cherry wood pellets, each imparting a unique flavor.
- Once the grill reaches the desired temperature, place the turkey breast-side up on the grill grates. Close the lid to maintain the heat and smoke.
- Monitor the internal temperature of the turkey using a meat thermometer. You want to cook the turkey until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast and thigh.
- Plan for approximately 30 minutes of cooking time per pound of turkey. For a 12-14 lb turkey, this will take around 6 hours, but keep an eye on the temperature as cooking times may vary.
- Once the turkey reaches the desired internal temperature, carefully remove it from the grill using heat-resistant gloves or tongs.
- Let the turkey rest for at least 20-30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful turkey.
- After resting, carve the turkey and serve with your favorite sides. Enjoy your delicious smoked whole turkey!
Tips
- Always use a meat thermometer to ensure accurate internal temperature and food safety.
- Choose wood pellets wisely - hickory provides robust flavor, while apple and cherry offer sweeter, milder smoke profiles.
- Thaw your turkey completely in the refrigerator to prevent uneven cooking and potential bacterial growth.
- Don't rush the resting period after cooking - this crucial step helps redistribute juices and ensures maximum tenderness.
- Consider brining your turkey beforehand for even more moisture and flavor penetration.
- Keep the grill lid closed as much as possible to maintain consistent temperature and smoke levels.
- If the turkey browns too quickly, you can loosely tent it with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.
- Clean and prepare your pellet grill in advance to ensure optimal performance and flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 284kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 38g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 120mg
