Cooking a turkey on a Traeger grill is a game-changer for your holiday feast or any special occasion. The Traeger pellet grill infuses your bird with a smoky, wood-fired flavor while keeping the meat tender and juicy. If you’re wondering how to cook a turkey on a Traeger grill, this friendly, step-by-step guide will walk you through everything-from prepping and seasoning to smoking and roasting your perfect turkey.
Why Choose a Traeger Grill for Turkey?
Traeger grills use wood pellets that provide consistent heat and a rich smoky flavor, which enhances the natural taste of turkey. Unlike traditional ovens, Traeger grills allow you to slow-cook your turkey with precision, resulting in crispy skin and moist meat without drying it out.
Preparing Your Turkey for the Traeger Grill
Thawing Your Turkey
If your turkey is frozen, plan ahead and thaw it safely in the refrigerator. It takes about 24 hours for every 5 pounds of turkey to thaw. If you’re short on time, you can use the cold water method by submerging the turkey in cold water and changing the water every 30 minutes until thawed.
Brining (Optional but Recommended)
Brining your turkey locks in moisture and infuses flavor. You can make a simple brine with water, salt, sugar, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and your favorite rub. Submerge the turkey breast-side down in the brine and refrigerate overnight for best results.
Seasoning and Butter Injection
After brining, pat the turkey dry and rub it with canola oil or butter. For extra flavor, gently separate the skin from the breast to create a pocket, then spread softened butter mixed with herbs and spices under the skin. Season the outside and inside cavity with your favorite poultry rub or a blend of herbs like rosemary, sage, and thyme.
Smoking and Cooking Your Turkey on the Traeger
Step 1: Preheat Your Traeger Grill
Set your Traeger to 225°F and preheat with the lid closed for about 15 minutes. If your grill has a Super Smoke setting, use it to enhance the smoky flavor.
Step 2: Start Smoking Low and Slow
Place the turkey breast-side up on a roasting pan or directly on the grill grates. Insert a meat thermometer probe into the thickest part of the breast to monitor temperature. Smoke the turkey at 225°F for about 2.5 to 3 hours, until the internal temperature reaches 100-110°F.
Step 3: Increase the Temperature to Roast
After the initial smoking phase, increase the grill temperature to 300-350°F to roast the turkey. Continue cooking until the internal temperature hits 165°F in the breast and 175°F in the thigh. This usually takes another 3.5 to 4 hours, depending on the size of your bird.
Step 4: Rest Your Turkey
Once the turkey reaches the proper temperature, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 15-30 minutes, covered loosely with foil. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat juicy and tender.
Tips for Perfect Turkey on a Traeger
– Use a meat thermometer: This is crucial to avoid undercooking or overcooking your turkey.
– Spatchcock for faster cooking: If you’re short on time, spatchcocking (removing the backbone and flattening the bird) reduces cooking time while ensuring even cooking and crispy skin.
– Baste with butter or pan juices: Basting during the cooking process adds moisture and flavor.
– Choose your wood pellets wisely: Apple, cherry, or mesquite pellets add distinct smoky notes to complement your turkey.
Easy Traeger Roasted Turkey Breast Option
If you prefer a smaller portion or want to avoid the whole bird, roasting a turkey breast on the Traeger is straightforward. Preheat the grill to 325°F, season the breast, and cook it for about 1 hour and 45 minutes, checking internal temperature regularly until it reaches 165°F.
Cooking a turkey on a Traeger grill combines traditional flavors with modern convenience, making your holiday meal or weekend cookout a delicious success.
Enjoy your perfectly smoked, juicy Traeger turkey!