How Long Does It Take to Grill a Spatchcock Turkey? (The Ultimate Guide)

How Long Does it Take to Grill a Spatchcock Turkey?

Grilled spatchcock turkey is a delicious and impressive way to cook a turkey for a holiday feast or special occasion. The spatchcocking method involves removing the backbone and flattening the turkey, which allows it to cook more evenly and quickly than a traditional roasted turkey.

If you’re wondering how long it takes to grill a spatchcock turkey, the answer depends on a few factors, including the size of the turkey, the temperature of your grill, and the desired degree of doneness. In general, you can expect to grill a spatchcock turkey for about 1 hour per pound at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Here’s a more detailed overview of the spatchcocking process and how long it takes to grill a spatchcock turkey:

* Spatchcocking a Turkey

To spatchcock a turkey, you’ll need a sharp knife and a cutting board. First, remove the giblets from the turkey cavity. Then, place the turkey breast-side up on the cutting board. Using the knife, carefully cut along both sides of the backbone, being careful not to cut into the meat. Once the backbone is removed, flip the turkey over so that the breast is facing down. Press down on the breastbone to flatten the turkey.

* Grilling a Spatchcock Turkey

Once the turkey is spatchcocked, you can start grilling it. Preheat your grill to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. If you’re using a gas grill, you can turn all of the burners to high and then reduce them to medium-high once the grill is preheated. If you’re using a charcoal grill, you can build a fire and let it burn down to medium-high heat.

Place the turkey breast-side up on the grill grate. Brush the turkey with oil and season with salt and pepper. Cook the turkey for about 1 hour per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Baste the turkey with butter or marinade every 15 minutes or so.

Once the turkey is cooked through, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.

Spatchcocked turkey is a delicious and impressive way to cook a turkey for a holiday feast or special occasion. It’s also a great way to save time on Thanksgiving Day, since the turkey cooks much faster than a traditional roasted turkey.

Weight Temperature Cook Time
10-12 pounds 325 degrees F 2-2 1/2 hours
12-14 pounds 325 degrees F 2 1/2-3 hours
14-16 pounds 325 degrees F 3-3 1/2 hours
16-18 pounds 325 degrees F 3 1/2-4 hours

Introduction

Grilling a spatchcock turkey is a great way to cook a delicious and juicy bird. Spatchcocking is a technique that involves cutting the backbone out of the turkey and flattening it out, which allows the meat to cook more evenly and quickly. This method is also great for smoking turkeys, as it allows the smoke to penetrate the meat more easily.

The grilling time for a spatchcock turkey will vary depending on the size of the bird, the temperature of the grill, and the type of grill you are using. However, you can generally expect to cook a spatchcock turkey for around 10 minutes per pound at 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

Factors Affecting Grilling Time

There are a few factors that can affect the grilling time of a spatchcock turkey, including:

* Size of the turkey: The larger the turkey, the longer it will take to cook. A 10-pound turkey will take about 2 hours to cook, while a 20-pound turkey will take about 4 hours.
* Temperature of the grill: The higher the temperature of the grill, the faster the turkey will cook. If you are grilling at a high temperature, you will need to keep an eye on the turkey to make sure it doesn’t overcook.
* Type of grill: The type of grill you are using can also affect the grilling time. A gas grill will heat up more quickly than a charcoal grill, so you will need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
* Whether the turkey is stuffed: If you are stuffing the turkey, it will take longer to cook than a turkey that is not stuffed. You will need to add about 30 minutes to the cooking time for a stuffed turkey.

Recommended Grilling Times

The following are recommended grilling times for spatchcock turkeys:

* For a whole turkey, cook for 15 minutes per pound at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
* For a spatchcocked turkey, cook for 10 minutes per pound at 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

These are just general guidelines, and the actual grilling time may vary depending on the factors listed above. Be sure to check the turkey with a meat thermometer to make sure it is cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Grilling a spatchcock turkey is a great way to cook a delicious and juicy bird. By following these tips, you can be sure to cook your turkey perfectly every time.

Additional Tips

Here are a few additional tips for grilling a spatchcock turkey:

* Preheat the grill to 400 degrees Fahrenheit before you start grilling. This will help to ensure that the turkey cooks evenly.
* Oil the grill grates before you place the turkey on them. This will help to prevent the turkey from sticking.
* Grill the turkey for about 5 minutes per side, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
* Cover the turkey with aluminum foil and continue to cook for the remaining time, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
* Let the turkey rest for about 10 minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and the turkey to be more tender.

By following these tips, you can grill a delicious and juicy spatchcock turkey that everyone will love.

How Long Does It Take to Grill a Spatchcock Turkey?

The cooking time for a spatchcock turkey will vary depending on the size of the turkey, the temperature of the grill, and the desired degree of doneness. However, a general rule of thumb is that a spatchcock turkey will take about 1-1.5 hours to cook per pound. So, for a 10-pound turkey, you can expect to cook it for about 10-15 hours.

Here is a more detailed breakdown of the cooking time for a spatchcock turkey:

* 10-pound turkey: 10-15 hours
* 12-pound turkey: 12-18 hours
* 14-pound turkey: 14-20 hours
* 16-pound turkey: 16-22 hours
* 18-pound turkey: 18-24 hours

It is important to note that these are just estimates, and the actual cooking time may vary depending on the factors mentioned above. To ensure that the turkey is cooked to the desired temperature, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the thickest part of the thigh. The turkey is done cooking when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Tips for Grilling a Spatchcock Turkey

Grilling a spatchcock turkey is a great way to cook a turkey for a large crowd. Here are a few tips to help you grill a delicious spatchcock turkey:

* Marinate the turkey before grilling to add flavor and moisture. Marinating the turkey for several hours or overnight will help to tenderize the meat and add flavor. You can use any type of marinade you like, but some popular options include:
* A simple brine made with salt, water, and sugar
* A citrus marinade made with lemon juice, lime juice, orange juice, or a combination of these juices
* A herb marinade made with fresh herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, sage, or oregano
* A spice marinade made with spices, such as cumin, coriander, paprika, or chili powder

* Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the turkey is cooked to the desired temperature. The turkey is done cooking when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Be sure to insert the meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh, not touching the bone.

* Baste the turkey with melted butter or oil while grilling to keep it moist. Basting the turkey will help to keep the meat moist and flavorful. You can baste the turkey with melted butter, olive oil, or a mixture of these oils.

* Don’t forget to rest the turkey before carving. After the turkey is cooked, let it rest for at least 20 minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and juicy turkey.

Safety Precautions

When grilling a spatchcock turkey, it is important to take the following safety precautions:

* Always use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey. This is the only way to ensure that the turkey is cooked to the desired temperature and is safe to eat.
* Do not leave the turkey unattended on the grill. The turkey can easily overcook if it is left unattended.
* Be careful not to overcook the turkey, as this can cause it to become dry and tough. The turkey is done cooking when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

By following these safety precautions, you can enjoy a delicious and safe spatchcock turkey.

Grilling a spatchcock turkey is a great way to cook a turkey for a large crowd. It is a relatively easy process, and the results are a flavorful and juicy turkey. By following the tips in this article, you can grill a delicious spatchcock turkey that everyone will enjoy.

How long does it take to grill a spatchcock turkey?

The cooking time for a spatchcock turkey will vary depending on the size of the bird, the temperature of the grill, and the desired doneness. However, a good rule of thumb is to cook a spatchcock turkey for 10-12 minutes per pound at a temperature of 375 degrees Fahrenheit.

What is the best temperature to grill a spatchcock turkey?

The ideal temperature for grilling a spatchcock turkey is 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This will allow the turkey to cook evenly and prevent it from drying out.

What is the best way to spatchcock a turkey?

To spatchcock a turkey, you will need to first remove the backbone. You can do this by cutting down the center of the backbone with a sharp knife, then cutting along each side of the breastbone. Once the backbone is removed, you can lay the turkey flat and season it with your favorite rub.

What are some tips for grilling a spatchcock turkey?

Here are a few tips for grilling a spatchcock turkey:

* Make sure the turkey is completely thawed before grilling.
* Marinate the turkey in a flavorful liquid for several hours or overnight.
* 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 with melted butter or olive oil while grilling to help keep it moist.
* Let the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.

What are some common mistakes people make when grilling a spatchcock turkey?

Here are a few common mistakes people make when grilling a spatchcock turkey:

* Not thawing the turkey completely before grilling.
* Marinating the turkey for too long.
* Overcooking the turkey.
* Not basting the turkey while grilling.
* Not letting the turkey rest before carving.

What are some of the benefits of grilling a spatchcock turkey?

There are a few benefits to grilling a spatchcock turkey, including:

* It is a quick and easy way to cook a turkey.
* The turkey cooks evenly and is less likely to dry out.
* The skin gets nice and crispy.
* It is a great way to show off your culinary skills.

Spatchcocking a turkey is a great way to cook a whole bird evenly and quickly. The process involves removing the backbone and flattening the turkey, which allows it to cook faster and more evenly than a traditional roasted turkey. Grilling a spatchcocked turkey is also a great option, as the high heat of the grill helps to sear the skin and create a delicious, crispy crust.

The total cooking time for a spatchcocked turkey will vary depending on the size of the bird, but it will typically take between 1 and 1 1/2 hours. Be sure to check the internal temperature of the turkey with a meat thermometer to make sure it is cooked to 165 degrees Fahrenheit before serving.

Spatchcocking a turkey is a simple and straightforward process, and it is a great way to impress your guests with a delicious and flavorful meal. So next time you are looking to cook a turkey, give spatchcocking a try!

Here are some key takeaways from the article:

* Spatchcocking a turkey is a great way to cook a whole bird evenly and quickly.
* The process involves removing the backbone and flattening the turkey, which allows it to cook faster and more evenly than a traditional roasted turkey.
* Grilling a spatchcocked turkey is also a great option, as the high heat of the grill helps to sear the skin and create a delicious, crispy crust.
* The total cooking time for a spatchcocked turkey will vary depending on the size of the bird, but it will typically take between 1 and 1 1/2 hours.
* Be sure to check the internal temperature of the turkey with a meat thermometer to make sure it is cooked to 165 degrees Fahrenheit before serving.

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!