Description
Indulge in the rich, smoky flavors of this outstanding smoked turkey recipe. Infused with aromatic spices, herbs, and citrus, this savory turkey is a showstopper for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 whole turkey (12–14 lbs), thawed if frozen
- 1/2 cup olive oil or melted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
For Smoking:
- 1 large onion, quartered
- 1 lemon, halved
- 2 cups apple cider or water for the smoker
Instructions
- Prepare the Smoker: Maintain a temperature of 225°F to 250°F (107°C to 121°C).
- Prepare Spice Mixture: Combine olive oil or melted butter with garlic, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, thyme, rosemary, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
- Rub Turkey: Pat dry and rub spice mixture all over the turkey, under the skin, and inside the cavity.
- Stuff Turkey: Fill the cavity with onion and lemon.
- Smoke Turkey: Place breast side up on the smoker rack and smoke for approximately 30 to 40 minutes per pound until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Carve: Allow the turkey to rest for 20–30 minutes before carving.
Notes
- For optimal flavor, brine the turkey for 12–24 hours before smoking.
- Enhance the smoke flavor with apple, cherry, or hickory wood chips.
- Monitor smoker temperature for consistent cooking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus optional brining time)
- Cook Time: 6 to 8 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Smoking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 6 oz)
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 37g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
