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BBQ Turkey

BBQ Turkey

By Traeger Kitchen

This BBQ turkey is brined, seasoned, and glazed to perfection, giving you a bird that’s juicy, flavorful, and ready to steal the Thanksgiving spotlight. From the rich smoke to the mouth-watering finish, this isn’t just any holiday turkey—it’s BBQ done right.

Prep Time

30 Min

Cook Time

4 Hr

Pellets

Turkey Blend

Ingredients

This recipe serves:

8

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Units of Measurement:
main
1 (18-20 lb) whole turkey, thawed if frozen
1 Traeger Orange Brine and Turkey Rub Kit
1 1/2 Cup Texas Spicy BBQ Sauce, divided
1/2 Cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature

Steps

  • 1

    The day before you plan to cook the turkey, brine it according to the directions on the Traeger Orange Brine and Turkey Rub Kit.

  • 2

    The morning of your cook, remove the turkey from the brine, rinse, and pat dry. Discard the brine.

  • 3

    In a small bowl, combine the butter and 1/2 cup Traeger Texas Spicy BBQ sauce.

  • 4

    Using your hands, gently separate the turkey skin from the breasts and legs, making sure to keep the skin intact.

  • 5

    Spread the BBQ butter mixture underneath the skin in an even layer. Season the exterior of the turkey liberally with the Turkey Rub from the Traeger Orange Brine and Turkey Rub Kit.

  • 6

    When ready to cook, set the Traeger temperature to 400°F and preheat with the lid closed for 15 minutes.

    400 ˚F / 204 ˚C

  • 7

    Insert the probe into the thickest part of a turkey breast. Place the turkey directly on the grill grates, close the lid, and roast for 30 minutes.

    400 ˚F / 204 ˚C

    00:30

  • 8

    Reduce the Traeger temperature to 300°F. Continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 160°F, 3-4 hours (the temperature will continue to rise to 165°F as the bird rests). During the last 20 minutes of cooking, glaze the bird with the remaining cup of Texas Spicy BBQ Sauce.

    300 ˚F / 149 ˚C

    160 ˚F / 71 ˚C

    04:00

  • 9

    Remove the turkey from the grill and let rest for 20-25 minutes before carving. Enjoy!

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