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November 5, 2024
Are you planning to cook a spatchcock turkey on a gas grill but you’re not sure how long it will take? Look no further! In this article, we will guide you through the process and provide you with the recommended cooking times.
Spatchcocking, also known as butterflying, is a cooking technique that involves removing the backbone of a turkey to flatten it out. This method not only reduces the cooking time, but also ensures more even cooking and crispy skin.
When it comes to cooking a spatchcock turkey on a gas grill, the cooking time will depend on various factors, such as the size of the turkey, the temperature of the grill, and your desired level of doneness. As a general rule, you can expect the cooking process to take approximately 10-15 minutes per pound of turkey.
It’s important to note that the internal temperature of the turkey should reach 165°F (74°C) to be considered safe to eat. To ensure accuracy, we recommend using a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature throughout the cooking process.
If you’re using a gas grill, preheat it to around 400°F (200°C) before placing the turkey on the grill. Cook the spatchcock turkey with the lid closed, flipping it occasionally for even browning. Keep an eye on the internal temperature and adjust the heat accordingly to maintain a steady cooking temperature.
Remember, cooking times may vary, so it’s always best to rely on the internal temperature rather than time alone. With these tips and guidelines, you’ll be able to cook a delicious spatchcock turkey on your gas grill with confidence!
Prepare the Turkey
Before you start cooking your spatchcock turkey on the gas grill, you’ll need to prepare the turkey properly. Follow these steps to ensure a delicious and safe meal:
1. Thaw the Turkey
If your turkey is frozen, make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The safest way to do this is by placing it in the refrigerator for 24 hours per 2.27 kg (5 pounds) of turkey. Alternatively, you can use the cold water thawing method by submerging the turkey in its original packaging in a sink or container filled with cold water. Change the water every 30 minutes and allow approximately 30 minutes of thawing time per 0.45 kg (1 pound) of turkey.
| Turkey Weight | Refrigerator Thawing Time | Cold Water Thawing Time |
|---|---|---|
| 4.5 kg (10 pounds) | 2 days | 5 hours |
| 6.8 kg (15 pounds) | 3 days | 7 hours |
| 9 kg (20 pounds) | 4 days | 10 hours |
2. Remove the Giblets and Excess Fat
Check the body and neck cavities of the turkey for the giblets (such as the liver, heart, and gizzard) as well as any excess fat. Remove and discard them, or save them for making gravy if desired.
3. Rinse and Pat Dry
Rinse the turkey inside and out with cold water, then pat it dry with paper towels. This helps remove any brine or ice crystals and promotes even browning during cooking.
4. Season the Turkey
You can season the turkey with your choice of herbs, spices, and marinades. Some popular options include a simple salt and pepper rub, a garlic and herb marinade, or a citrus-based seasoning. Be sure to season both the skin and the cavity for maximum flavor.
With these steps completed, your spatchcock turkey is now ready to be cooked on the gas grill.
Thaw the Turkey
Before cooking a spatchcock turkey on a gas grill, it is important to properly thaw the turkey to ensure even cooking and food safety. Thawing a turkey in the refrigerator is the recommended method as it allows the turkey to thaw slowly and safely.
Here’s how to thaw a spatchcock turkey:
- Remove the turkey from its packaging and place it on a tray or pan to catch any liquids.
- Place the turkey in the refrigerator, making sure there is enough space for air to circulate around it.
- Allow approximately 24 hours of thawing time for every 2.27 kilograms (5 pounds) of turkey. For example, a 4.54-kilogram (10-pound) turkey will take around 48 hours to thaw completely.
- Make sure to check the turkey periodically during the thawing process to ensure it is thawing properly and to catch any potentially leaky fluids.
It is important to never thaw a turkey at room temperature or using warm water, as this promotes the growth of bacteria. Thawing in the refrigerator is the safest method and ensures that the turkey stays below 4°C (40°F), which is the optimal temperature for slowing bacteria growth.
Once the spatchcock turkey is completely thawed, it is ready to be seasoned and cooked on the gas grill.
Butterfly the Turkey
Before cooking a spatchcock turkey on a gas grill, you need to butterfly the turkey. Butterflying, also known as spatchcocking, is a cooking technique that involves removing the backbone of the turkey and flattening it out, so it cooks evenly and quickly.
Here’s how to butterfly a turkey:
- Place the turkey breast-side down on a clean cutting board.
- Using a pair of kitchen shears or a sharp knife, cut along both sides of the backbone from the tail end to the neck end.
- Remove the backbone and save it for making turkey stock.
- Turn the turkey breast-side up and press down firmly on the breast bone to flatten the turkey.
- Tuck the wing tips behind the turkey’s back, so they don’t burn during cooking.
Butterflying the turkey not only reduces the cooking time but also allows for more even cooking, ensuring that both the dark and white meat are cooked to perfection.
Using a Table:
You can use a table to help butterfly your turkey. Place the turkey breast-side down on a sturdy table with the legs facing you. Press down on the turkey firmly to flatten it out.
By following these steps to butterfly your turkey, you’ll be ready to cook it on your gas grill and achieve delicious, evenly cooked results.
Preheat the Gas Grill
Before cooking your spatchcock turkey on a gas grill, it’s important to preheat the grill to ensure even cooking and to avoid any potential food safety issues.
Here’s how to preheat your gas grill:
- First, make sure your gas grill is clean and free of any debris.
- Open the grill lid and turn the gas knob on the propane tank to open it fully.
- Next, turn the burner knobs on the grill to the highest setting.
- Ignite the grill by pushing the ignition button or using a grill lighter.
- Keep the lid of the grill open and allow it to preheat for about 10-15 minutes.
During the preheating process, the grill will reach the desired cooking temperature, usually around 400°F (204°C), which is ideal for cooking a spatchcock turkey.
Once the grill is preheated, you can start preparing your spatchcock turkey for grilling.
Preheat the Grill
Before you start cooking your spatchcock turkey on a gas grill, it’s important to preheat the grill to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking. Here are the steps to follow:
- Make sure the grill is clean by removing any leftover debris from previous cooking sessions.
- Turn on the gas supply and open the grill’s lid.
- Set all burners to their highest heat setting and close the lid.
- Allow the grill to preheat for about 10-15 minutes or until it reaches a temperature of approximately 400°F (204°C).
During the preheating process, it’s a good idea to brush the grill grates with oil to prevent sticking. This will also help create those sought-after grill marks on your spatchcock turkey.
Once the grill is preheated, you’re ready to start cooking your spatchcock turkey!
Cook the Turkey on Gas Grill
Cooking a spatchcock turkey on a gas grill is a great way to achieve a delicious and perfectly cooked bird. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Prepare the turkey
Start by spatchcocking the turkey, which involves removing the backbone so that the turkey lies flat on the grill. To do this, place the turkey breast-side down and use kitchen shears or a sharp knife to cut along both sides of the backbone. Remove the backbone and save it for making stock or gravy.
2. Season the turkey
Next, season the turkey with your desired seasonings. A simple blend of salt, pepper, and herbs like rosemary and thyme works well. Make sure to season both the breast and underside of the turkey.
Note: You can also brine the turkey before grilling for added flavor and moisture.
3. Preheat the grill
Preheat your gas grill to medium-high heat, around 375-400°F (190-200°C). Make sure to clean the grill grates and oil them to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the turkey
Place the spatchcocked turkey skin-side up on the grill grates. Close the grill lid and cook the turkey for about 12-15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast.
Periodically check the turkey to prevent burning, and rotate or move it to a cooler part of the grill if needed. You can also baste the turkey with a mixture of melted butter and herbs for added flavor.
5. Rest and serve
Once the turkey is fully cooked, carefully remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 15-20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat and ensures a moist and tender turkey.
Carve the turkey and serve it with your favorite sides and gravy. Enjoy your delicious spatchcock turkey cooked perfectly on a gas grill!
Q&A
How long does it take to cook a spatchcock turkey on a gas grill?
The cooking time for a spatchcock turkey on a gas grill can vary depending on the size of the turkey and the temperature of the grill. As a general guideline, it can take about 10-15 minutes per pound to cook a spatchcock turkey on a gas grill at a temperature of 350°F (175°C). So, if you have a 12-pound turkey, it will take approximately 2-3 hours to cook.
Can I use a gas grill to cook a spatchcock turkey?
Yes, you can definitely use a gas grill to cook a spatchcock turkey. Gas grills are a great option for cooking turkeys because they offer good heat control and are convenient to use. Just make sure to preheat the grill to the desired temperature and adjust the burners to maintain a consistent heat throughout the cooking process.
What temperature should I set my gas grill to cook a spatchcock turkey?
The recommended temperature for cooking a spatchcock turkey on a gas grill is 350°F (175°C). This temperature allows the turkey to cook evenly and helps to achieve a crispy skin. It’s important to preheat the grill to this temperature before placing the turkey on the grates. Use a reliable grill thermometer to monitor the temperature throughout the cooking process.
Do I need to flip the spatchcock turkey while cooking on a gas grill?
No, you do not need to flip the spatchcock turkey while cooking on a gas grill. The spatchcock technique involves removing the backbone and flattening the turkey, which allows for more even cooking. Place the turkey skin-side up on the grill and let it cook undisturbed until it reaches the desired internal temperature. Flipping the turkey can disrupt the cooking process and may cause the skin to stick to the grates.