How to Cook a Juicy, Flavorful Turkey on Your Gas Grill

ByMike Thompson Turkey Recipe

How to Cook a Turkey on a Gas Grill

The smell of a smoked turkey wafting through the air on a summer day is one of the great joys of grilling season. But if you’ve never cooked a turkey on a gas grill before, you may be wondering where to start.

Don’t worry, we’re here to help. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps of smoking a turkey on a gas grill, from choosing the right turkey to prepping the grill. We’ll also share some tips for getting the perfect smoked turkey every time.

So whether you’re a seasoned griller or a complete novice, read on for everything you need to know about cooking a turkey on a gas grill.

Step Instructions Image
1 Preheat your gas grill to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
2 Oil the grill grates.
3 Place the turkey on the grill, breast-side up.
4 Close the grill lid and cook for 15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
5 Let the turkey rest for 15 minutes before carving. turkey per person. However, if you are serving a lot of sides, you may want to increase the amount of turkey you cook.

For a small gathering, you can get away with a 12-pound turkey. For a larger group, you may want to go with a 16-pound turkey or larger.

Fresh vs. frozen

You can choose to buy a fresh or frozen turkey. Fresh turkeys are typically more expensive, but they also have a better flavor. Frozen turkeys are less expensive, but they can take longer to cook.

If you are planning on cooking your turkey on a gas grill, you will want to thaw it completely before cooking. This can take several days, so plan accordingly.

Brining or dry-rub

Brining is a process of soaking the turkey in a saltwater solution before cooking. This helps to keep the turkey moist and flavorful. Dry-rubbing the turkey with a spice rub is another way to add flavor to the meat.

If you are brining the turkey, you will need to plan ahead. Brining can take anywhere from 4 hours to overnight.

If you are dry-rubbing the turkey, you can do this the day before you plan on cooking it.

Preparing the Turkey

Once you have chosen the right turkey, it is time to prepare it for cooking.

Removing the giblets

The giblets are the internal organs of the turkey. They are typically found in a bag inside the turkey’s cavity.

To remove the giblets, you will need to first find the neck opening. This is located at the bottom of the turkey’s neck.

Once you have found the neck opening, you can use your fingers to reach inside and pull out the bag of giblets.

The bag of giblets will contain the following:

* The liver
* The heart
* The gizzard
* The neck

You can discard the giblets or save them for another use.

Trussing the turkey

Trussing the turkey is a way to tie the legs and wings together so that the turkey cooks evenly.

To truss the turkey, you will need a piece of kitchen twine.

First, place the turkey breast-side up on a cutting board.

Then, take the twine and tie it around the legs, just below the thighs.

Bring the ends of the twine up over the breast and cross them in front of the neck.

Then, bring the ends of the twine back down under the turkey and tie them together in a knot.

Marinating or injecting the turkey

Marinating the turkey is a great way to add flavor to the meat. You can use any type of marinade you like, but some popular options include:

* Italian dressing
* Teriyaki sauce
* Lemon-herb marinade

To marinate the turkey, you will need to place it in a large bowl or container. Then, pour the marinade over the turkey and cover it with plastic wrap.

Let the turkey marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight.

If you do not have time to marinate the turkey, you can also inject it with a flavorful liquid. This will help to flavor the meat from the inside out.

To inject the turkey, you will need a turkey injector. You can find these at most kitchen stores.

Fill the injector with your favorite liquid and insert it into the turkey’s breast.

Inject the turkey all over, being careful not to puncture the bag of giblets.

Cooking the Turkey

Now that you have prepared the turkey, it is time to cook it.

There are a few different ways to cook a turkey on a gas grill, but the most common method is to roast it.

To roast the turkey, you will need to:

1. Preheat your gas grill to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Place the turkey on the grill, breast-side up.
3. Cover the grill and cook the turkey for 15 minutes per pound.
4. Baste the turkey every 30 minutes with the drippings from the pan.
5. When the turkey is cooked through, the internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
6. Let the turkey rest for 10 minutes before carving it.

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3. Cooking the Turkey

Temperature and cooking time

The cooking temperature and time for a turkey will vary depending on the size of the turkey, the type of gas grill you are using, and your personal preference. However, a good rule of thumb is to cook a turkey at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 minutes per pound. For example, a 10-pound turkey would cook for 5 hours.

It is important to note that the internal temperature of the turkey is more important than the cooking time. The turkey is done cooking when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey.

Basting or spraying the turkey

Basting or spraying the turkey during cooking will help to keep it moist. You can baste the turkey with melted butter, olive oil, or a mixture of water and vinegar. You can also spray the turkey with a cooking spray. Baste or spray the turkey every 30 minutes or so.

Resting the turkey

After the turkey is cooked, it is important to let it rest for at least 30 minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the turkey, making it more flavorful and juicy.

4. Carving the Turkey

Removing the legs and wings

To remove the legs and wings from the turkey, first cut through the skin between the leg and the body. Then, cut through the joint between the thigh and the drumstick. Finally, cut through the joint between the wing and the body.

Carving the breast

To carve the breast, first slice down the center of the breast, cutting through the breastbone. Then, slice each half of the breast crosswise into thin slices.

Carving the thighs and drumsticks

To carve the thighs and drumsticks, first cut through the skin between the thigh and the drumstick. Then, cut through the joint between the thigh and the body. Finally, cut the thigh and drumstick into pieces.

Cooking a turkey on a gas grill is a great way to enjoy a delicious and flavorful meal. By following these tips, you can cook a perfect turkey every time.

How long does it take to cook a turkey on a gas grill?

The cooking time for a turkey on a gas grill will vary depending on the size of the turkey, the temperature of the grill, and the desired degree of doneness. For a general guideline, plan on cooking a turkey for 15 minutes per pound at 325 degrees Fahrenheit. For example, a 10-pound turkey will take about 3 hours to cook.

What temperature should I cook a turkey on a gas grill?

The ideal temperature for cooking a turkey on a gas grill is 325 degrees Fahrenheit. This will help to ensure that the turkey is cooked evenly and thoroughly.

What is the best way to baste a turkey on a gas grill?

The best way to baste a turkey on a gas grill is to use a spray bottle filled with melted butter or olive oil. This will help to keep the turkey moist and flavorful.

What are some tips for cooking a turkey on a gas grill?

Here are a few tips for cooking a turkey on a gas grill:

* Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey. The turkey is done when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
* Baste the turkey regularly with melted butter or olive oil to keep it moist.
* Cover the grill with aluminum foil to help retain heat and moisture.
* Let the turkey rest for 15 minutes before carving to allow the juices to redistribute.

What are some common mistakes people make when cooking a turkey on a gas grill?

Here are a few common mistakes people make when cooking a turkey on a gas grill:

* Not using a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey.
* Not basting the turkey regularly.
* Cooking the turkey at too high of a temperature.
* Not letting the turkey rest before carving.

What are some alternative cooking methods for turkey?

In addition to cooking a turkey on a gas grill, you can also cook it in the oven, on the stovetop, or in a slow cooker. Here are some tips for each method:

* To cook a turkey in the oven, preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and cook for 15 minutes per pound.
* To cook a turkey on the stovetop, fill a large pot with water and bring to a boil. Add the turkey and cook for 15 minutes per pound.
* To cook a turkey in a slow cooker, place the turkey in a slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours.

No matter how you choose to cook your turkey, be sure to follow the tips in this guide to ensure that it is cooked perfectly.

cooking a turkey on a gas grill is a great way to enjoy a delicious and flavorful meal without having to spend a lot of time in the kitchen. By following the tips in this article, you can be sure to cook a perfectly roasted turkey that is moist and juicy every time. So fire up your grill and get ready to enjoy a delicious Thanksgiving feast!

Author Profile

Mike Thompson
Mike Thompson
Hello, fellow turkey enthusiasts! I'm Mike Thompson, a proud resident of the picturesque state of Missouri, renowned for its thriving turkey population and favorable hunting conditions. For over a decade, I've roamed the woods, valleys, and peaks of our beautiful state, learning every nook, cranny, and secret that turkey hunting has to offer. My track record? Well, let's just say I've bagged more turkeys than there are days in November, and each hunt has added a story to my ever-growing book of experiences.

However, as much as I love the thrill of the hunt, what truly fuels my passion is the joy of sharing my knowledge with others. That's why I created this platform. This site is not just a testament to my journey but a beacon for all those who are looking to embark on their own turkey hunting adventures. Whether you're a beginner eager to get started or a seasoned pro seeking advanced tips, you'll find a wealth of information here.

From understanding turkey behavior, tracking techniques, and the best equipment to use, to the do's and don'ts of turkey hunting, this site is a comprehensive guide to all things turkey. So, strap on your boots, pick up your gear, and let's embark on a journey together into the world of turkey hunting. Welcome to my site, and happy hunting!