Want to Know a Perfect Way of How to Cook a Turkey On a Pellet Grill?

 

If you have poorly smoked turkey, it will be a nightmare. It takes a lot of time to prepare, depending on the amount of turkey. But in this preparation, you need only simple things. Therefore, this article entails all the relevant information on how to cook a turkey on a pellet grill.

Why Do People Love Turkey Meat?

Well, who does not love turkey? If there is no turkey, thanksgiving is incomplete. People love this amazing meat in various ways. Be it grilling, baking, or others. However, the best way to cook a turkey is to smoke it. So, smoked turkey is a delicious dish for special occasions. And the best way to smoke a turkey is on a pellet grill. It is the indirect way of cooking a turkey.

Different Ways to Prepare a Turkey 

There are different methods to cook a turkey. Such as in an instant pot, in the air fryer, on the pellet grill, on the Traeger grill, or the pellet grill. As we talked about earlier, the perfect way to cook a turkey is on a pellet grill.

How to Cook a Turkey On a Pellet Grill

Here we will discuss how to prepare a turkey on a pellet grill.

The following are the steps.

 1: Thaw A Turkey Meat 

Not all of us can buy a fresh turkey. You can also use a frozen turkey. In this case, make sure to give it a proper time to thaw. However, the time varies according to the amount of turkey. If you have 10 pounds of meat, it will take two days to thaw. And if you have 16 pounds of turkey, it will take 72 hours.

 

2: Prepare A Brine for Turkey 

First, you have to prepare a brine for soaking the turkey. For the preparation of brine, you need to have liquid, salt, spices, and herbs. In a liquid, combine them. For each gallon of liquid, you need to add a cup of salt. Soaking a turkey in brine will lock in the moisture of the meat. Put the turkey in brine and leave it in the refrigerator for a night to get the best results.

 

3: Remove The Giblets Out Of The Turkey Cavity 

In giblets, the different parts of the turkey include the neck, gizzard, heart, and liver. These parts enhance the taste of a turkey dish. But if you think that you do not need to add them, you can remove these parts.

 

4: Select A Wood Pellet 

For the best smoking on a pellet grill, choose a wood pellet. In addition, the wood pellet is best for smoking a large amount of meat.

 

5: Use A Dry Rub For A Browned Skin 

If you are fond of evenly browned skin-on turkey, then apply a dry rub on the turkey before smoking. Furthermore, for a crispy texture, you can add oil and butter.

 

6: Trussing and Stuffing 

Stuffing and trussing both are optional for the preparation of a turkey. Trussing is the tightening of the bird’s legs for the proper shape. While the stuffing of the bird is for the enrichment of the dish’s flavor.

 

7: Optimal Smoking Temperature For Turkey 

The ideal temperature for smoking turkey is 165 F°. However, you will need more attention to keep the internal temperature of the meat consistent.

 

Recipe  

Cooking the turkey on a pellet grill is an easy process. However, it takes time to cook properly. It is a slow and consistent process. Now let’s have a look at the recipe.

 

What Equipment Do You Need

A pellet grill

A hardwood pellet,

A meat thermometer

A roasting pan

 

Ingredients  

One whole turkey (giblets removed)

1 cup salt

Four-quarters water

A dry rub

Some herbs and spices (for brine)

 

Instructions 

1. In a container, combine four parts water, salt, spices, and herbs to make a brine solution.
2. Brine the turkey for one day in the refrigerator.
3. Start a pellet grill and place the turkey on it.
4. Smoke for two hours at 165 F°, then raise the temperature to 325 F°.
5. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
6. Take the turkey out of the smoker.
7. Wrap it in foil for 10 to 15 minutes to allow the juices to settle in the meat.
8. Put it on a chopping block and enjoy it with your loved ones.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it take to cook a turkey on a pellet grill?

An optimal time to cook a turkey on a pellet grill is 2 to 3 hours at 300 degrees Fahrenheit. However, this time depends on the size of your turkey too. You may need to cook for another 3 to 4 hours based on the size.

 

What is the best temperature to smoke a turkey at?

Smoking time for a turkey varies from 225 to 300degree Fahrenheit. In addition, if you cook at a lower temperature, it will make turkey a bit rich in flavor. On the other hand, higher temperatures will escalate the overall cooking time.

 

Bottom Line

There are lots of different ways to enjoy turkey with your friends and family. But what makes it special to cook on a pellet grill is its vibrant and robust smoke flavors. Honestly, people love this flavor.

Therefore, cook your turkey on a pellet grill and enjoy this amazing palate with your loved ones.