BBQ & Smoking
Smoked Turkey
By Ryan · Published 2026-08-06
Servings
Serves 8-12
Prep
30 min
Cook
4 hr
Difficulty
Medium
A regular on the holiday table alongside the smoked ham.
Ingredients
- • 1 whole turkey, thawed
- • Butter or oil, for the skin
- • Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and herbs (or your favorite poultry seasoning)
- • Optional: onion, citrus, and herbs for the cavity
Steps
- 1.Dry-brine the turkey a day ahead if you can: salt it all over and let it rest uncovered in the fridge overnight to help the skin crisp and season the meat through.
- 2.Pat the turkey dry, rub the skin with butter or oil, and season generously inside and out.
- 3.Set up your smoker at 250-300°F for a good balance of smoke flavor and reasonable cook time.
- 4.Smoke until the breast hits 165°F and the thigh hits about 175°F, basting occasionally with more butter if you like a richer skin.
- 5.Let the turkey rest for 20-30 minutes before carving.
Notes
- • A holiday rotation regular.