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September 20, 2024
A spatchcock turkey is a great way to cook a turkey that results in juicy, evenly cooked meat and a beautiful crispy skin. When cooking a spatchcock turkey on a Traeger, it’s important to know the cooking time and temperature to ensure a perfect outcome.
The cooking time for a spatchcock turkey on a Traeger will depend on the weight of the bird. As a general guideline, you can cook a spatchcock turkey at a temperature of 325°F (163°C). For a turkey that weighs around 12-14 pounds, the cooking time will be approximately 2-3 hours.
It’s important to note that these times are just estimates and may vary depending on the specific Traeger grill model and the actual temperature inside the grill. To ensure that the turkey is fully cooked, it is recommended to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature of the thickest part of the turkey should reach 165°F (74°C).
Before cooking the spatchcock turkey, it is recommended to season it with your preferred spices and herbs. You can also add some melted butter or olive oil to enhance the flavor and help keep the meat moist during the cooking process. Once the turkey is seasoned, place it skin-side up on the Traeger grill and close the lid.
Remember to preheat the Traeger grill for about 15-20 minutes before placing the turkey on it. This will ensure that the grill is at the right temperature for cooking.
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During the cooking process, it’s a good idea to occasionally baste the turkey with its own juices or any additional marinade to keep it moist and flavorful. However, it’s important to avoid opening the grill too often, as this can cause heat loss and increase the cooking time.
Once the turkey reaches the desired internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before carving. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a moist and tender turkey.
In conclusion, cooking a spatchcock turkey on a Traeger can result in a delicious and perfectly cooked bird. With the right temperature and cooking time, along with proper seasoning and occasional basting, you can enjoy a flavorful and juicy turkey that will impress your family and friends.
How to Cook a Spatchcock Turkey on a Traeger Grill
If you’re looking for a delicious and easy way to cook a turkey, spatchcocking is the way to go. This method involves removing the backbone of the bird and then flattening it out before cooking. Not only does it cook the turkey faster and more evenly, but it also makes carving a breeze.
If you have a Traeger grill, you’re in luck. This grill’s consistent temperature control and wood-fired flavor make it the perfect tool for cooking a spatchcock turkey. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you cook a mouthwatering turkey on your Traeger:
Step 1: Preparing the Turkey
Start by making sure your turkey is thawed completely. Remove the giblets and neck from the cavity. Rinse the turkey under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Place the turkey breast-side down on a cutting board.
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Step 2: Spatchcocking the Turkey
Using kitchen shears, cut along both sides of the backbone from end to end. Remove the backbone and save it for making stock or discard it. Flip the turkey over and press down firmly to flatten it out. You may hear a crack, which is normal.
Step 3: Seasoning the Turkey
Generously season the turkey with your favorite rub or a combination of salt, pepper, herbs, and spices. Don’t forget to season the underside as well. Let the turkey sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Step 4: Preparing the Traeger Grill
Preheat your Traeger grill to 350°F (175°C). Make sure you have enough wood pellets to maintain the temperature throughout the cooking process. You can use any flavor of pellets, but hickory, apple, or cherry work particularly well with turkey.
Step 5: Cooking the Turkey
Place the seasoned, spatchcocked turkey directly on the grill grates, skin-side up. Close the lid and let the turkey cook for about 12-15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast. This usually takes around 2-3 hours for a 12-14 pound turkey.
Step 6: Resting and Carving the Turkey
Once the turkey reaches the desired temperature, carefully remove it from the grill and transfer it to a cutting board. Let the turkey rest for at least 15 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Then, carve and serve your perfectly cooked spatchcock turkey!
Cooking a spatchcock turkey on a Traeger grill is a surefire way to impress your friends and family with a flavorful and juicy bird. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious results!
Preparing the Turkey
Before you begin cooking your spatchcock turkey on a Traeger, it is important to properly prepare the turkey to ensure a delicious and fully cooked meal. Follow these steps:
- Thaw the turkey according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer. This usually involves placing the turkey in the refrigerator for a certain amount of time.
- Remove the giblets and neck from the turkey cavity. These can typically be found inside a small bag or pouch.
- Rinse the turkey under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.
- Optional: Brine the turkey to add flavor and moisture. This involves submerging the turkey in a mixture of water, salt, sugar, and any desired spices or herbs for a few hours or overnight.
- If brining, remove the turkey from the brine and pat it dry with paper towels. Discard the brine.
- Season the turkey with salt and pepper, or any desired rub or seasoning mixture. Be sure to season both the outside and inside of the turkey.
Once you have prepared the turkey, it is ready to be cooked on your Traeger grill. Follow the recommended cooking times and temperatures for a spatchcock turkey on your specific Traeger model for the best results.
Seasoning the Turkey
Seasoning the turkey is an essential step to enhance its flavor and create a delicious meal. Before seasoning, make sure to rinse the turkey inside and out with cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.
Here are some popular seasoning options:
- Traditional: For a classic flavor, rub the turkey with a mixture of salt, black pepper, and poultry seasoning.
- Herb-infused: Create a fragrant herb rub by combining chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage with minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Citrusy: Give your turkey a refreshing twist by rubbing it with a mixture of lemon zest, orange zest, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Spicy: If you prefer some heat, try a spicy rub with cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Once you have chosen your seasoning blend, generously rub it all over the turkey, making sure to get into the nooks and crannies. Allow the turkey to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Preparing the Traeger Grill
Before cooking your spatchcock turkey on a Traeger grill, it’s important to properly prepare the grill to ensure even cooking and delicious results. Here are the steps to follow:
1. Clean the grill grates: Start by thoroughly cleaning the grill grates with a stiff brush to remove any leftover residue from previous cooking sessions. This will help prevent any unwanted flavors from transferring to your turkey.
2. Preheat the grill: Turn on the Traeger grill and set the temperature to the desired cooking temperature. Preheating the grill will ensure that it reaches the correct temperature before placing the turkey on the grill.
3. Season the grill grates: Once the grill is preheating, lightly oil the grill grates with a high smoke point oil like canola or grapeseed oil. This will help prevent the turkey from sticking to the grates and also aid in creating beautiful grill marks.
4. Place a drip pan: Position a drip pan under the grill grates to catch any drippings from the turkey. This will make cleanup easier and also prevent any flare-ups from occurring.
5. Close the grill and let it heat up: Close the grill and allow it to continue preheating until it reaches the desired cooking temperature. This will take about 10-15 minutes depending on the grill model and the temperature set.
Now that your Traeger grill is properly prepared, you can proceed to cook your spatchcock turkey following the recommended cooking time and temperature guidelines.
Cooking the Spatchcock Turkey
Once you have successfully prepared and spatchcocked your turkey, it’s time to cook it on your Traeger grill. Cooking a spatchcock turkey on a Traeger is a great way to ensure even cooking and delicious flavor. Follow these steps to cook the perfect spatchcock turkey:
- Preheat your Traeger grill to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the spatchcock turkey directly on the grill grates, skin side up.
- Cook the turkey for approximately 12-15 minutes per pound. A 12-pound turkey will take around 2-2.5 hours to cook.
- Monitor the internal temperature of the turkey using a meat thermometer. The turkey is done when the thickest part of the thigh reaches 165°F (75°C).
- If desired, you can baste the turkey with butter or your favorite marinade during the cooking process to add extra flavor.
- Once the turkey is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 15 minutes before carving.
Remember to always practice safe food handling and properly clean and sanitize any surfaces or utensils that come into contact with raw turkey to avoid cross-contamination.
Now that you know how to cook a spatchcock turkey on a Traeger, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get grilling! Enjoy your deliciously cooked turkey!
Q&A
What is a spatchcock turkey?
A spatchcock turkey is a turkey that has been prepared by removing the backbone and flattening the bird before cooking.
Why would I want to spatchcock a turkey?
Spatchcocking a turkey helps to cook the bird more evenly and quickly, resulting in juicier meat and crispier skin.
How long does it take to cook a spatchcock turkey on a Traeger?
The cooking time for a spatchcock turkey on a Traeger will depend on the size of the bird. As a general rule, it takes about 12-15 minutes per pound at a temperature of 325°F (163°C).
What is the recommended internal temperature for a spatchcock turkey?
The recommended internal temperature for a spatchcock turkey is 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh.
Can I use a different type of grill to cook a spatchcock turkey?
Yes, you can use a different type of grill to cook a spatchcock turkey. Just make sure you adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly.