How to Cook a Moist and Juicy Turkey on a Traeger in 3 Hours

ByMike Thompson Turkey Recipe

How Long to Cook a Turkey on a Traeger?

The holidays are coming up, and that means it’s time to start thinking about cooking a turkey. If you’re planning on using your Traeger grill, you’re in luck! Traegers are perfect for cooking turkeys, and they can help you create a delicious and juicy bird that your guests will love.

In this article, we’ll discuss how long to cook a turkey on a Traeger, as well as some tips and tricks for getting the best results. We’ll also provide a recipe for a smoked turkey that you can use as a starting point for your own creations.

So if you’re ready to learn how to cook a turkey on a Traeger, keep reading!

Weight (lbs) Cooking Time (hours) Temperature (F)
12 3-4 325
14 4-5 325
16 5-6 325
18 6-7 325
20 7-8 325

Factors to Consider When Cooking a Turkey on a Traeger

When cooking a turkey on a Traeger, there are a few factors to consider in order to achieve the best results. These factors include the type of turkey, the weight of the turkey, the temperature of the Traeger, and the cooking method.

Type of Turkey

The type of turkey you choose will impact the cooking time and the final flavor of the bird. There are three main types of turkeys:

* Conventional turkeys are typically the least expensive option and are available in both fresh and frozen varieties. They are typically brined or injected with a salt solution to help retain moisture during cooking.
* Harvest turkeys are a more expensive option, but they are also more flavorful. They are typically not brined or injected with a salt solution, so they are important to cook them to the correct internal temperature to avoid drying them out.
* Free-range turkeys are the most expensive option, but they are also the most nutritious. They are raised on a diet of grass and grains, and they have more flavorful meat than conventionally raised turkeys.

When choosing a turkey for your Traeger, you should consider the size of your grill, the number of people you are serving, and your budget.

Weight of Turkey

The weight of the turkey will also impact the cooking time. A general rule of thumb is to cook a turkey for 15 minutes per pound at 325 degrees Fahrenheit. However, you may need to adjust the cooking time depending on the size of your turkey and the temperature of your Traeger.

Temperature of the Traeger

The temperature of the Traeger will also impact the cooking time and the final flavor of the bird. You can cook a turkey on a Traeger at any temperature, but the most common temperatures are 225 degrees Fahrenheit, 325 degrees Fahrenheit, and 375 degrees Fahrenheit.

* 225 degrees Fahrenheit is the lowest temperature you can cook a turkey on a Traeger. This is a good option for smoking a turkey, as it will produce a more flavorful bird. However, it will take longer to cook a turkey at this temperature.
* 325 degrees Fahrenheit is the most common temperature for cooking a turkey on a Traeger. This will produce a juicy and flavorful bird in a reasonable amount of time.
* 375 degrees Fahrenheit is the highest temperature you can cook a turkey on a Traeger. This is a good option for people who are short on time, as it will cook the turkey quickly. However, it is important to keep an eye on the turkey at this temperature, as it can easily dry out.

Cooking Method

The cooking method you choose will also impact the cooking time and the final flavor of the bird. You can cook a turkey on a Traeger using any of the following methods:

* Smoking is a great way to add flavor to a turkey. To smoke a turkey, you will need to smoke it at a low temperature (225 degrees Fahrenheit) for several hours.
* Roasting is the most common way to cook a turkey on a Traeger. To roast a turkey, you will need to cook it at a higher temperature (325 degrees Fahrenheit) for a shorter amount of time.
* Basting is a good way to keep a turkey moist while it is cooking. To baste a turkey, you will need to brush it with melted butter or oil every hour or so.

Steps for Cooking a Turkey on a Traeger

Once you have considered the factors listed above, you can begin cooking your turkey on a Traeger. Here are the steps involved:

1. Preparing the turkey. The first step is to prepare the turkey. This includes removing the giblets and neck from the cavity, rinsing the turkey inside and out, and drying it with paper towels.
2. Seasoning the turkey. The next step is to season the turkey. You can use any seasonings you like, but some popular options include salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
3. Cooking the turkey. The final step is to cook the turkey. You can cook the turkey using any of the methods listed above. The cooking time will vary depending on the size of the turkey and the temperature of the Traeger.
4. Resting the turkey. After the turkey is cooked, it is important to let it rest for at least 30 minutes before carving it. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the bird, resulting in a more flavorful and juicy turkey.

Conclusion

Cooking a turkey on a Traeger is a great way to enjoy a delicious and flavorful meal. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can

How Long to Cook a Turkey on a Traeger?

The cooking time for a turkey on a Traeger will vary depending on the size of the turkey, the temperature of the Traeger, and the desired doneness of the turkey.

For a general guideline, a 10-pound turkey will take about 3 hours to cook on a Traeger at 325 degrees Fahrenheit. For a 12-pound turkey, you will need to cook it for about 3.5 hours. And for a 14-pound turkey, you will need to cook it for about 4 hours.

If you want your turkey to be well done, you will need to cook it for a longer period of time. For example, a 10-pound turkey cooked to 165 degrees Fahrenheit will take about 4 hours. And a 12-pound turkey cooked to 165 degrees Fahrenheit will take about 4.5 hours.

It is important to note that the cooking time for a turkey on a Traeger will also vary depending on the temperature of the Traeger. If you are cooking your turkey at a higher temperature, it will cook faster. And if you are cooking your turkey at a lower temperature, it will cook slower.

To ensure that your turkey is cooked properly, you should use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey. The internal temperature of a turkey should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit before it is safe to eat.

Tips for Cooking a Turkey on a Traeger

Here are a few tips for cooking a turkey on a Traeger:

* Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey.
* Baste the turkey regularly to keep it moist.
* Let the turkey rest for at least 30 minutes before carving.

Common Problems When Cooking a Turkey on a Traeger

There are a few common problems that people encounter when cooking a turkey on a Traeger. These problems include:

* The turkey is dry.
* The turkey is undercooked.
* The turkey is overcooked.

Here are some tips to avoid these problems:

* To avoid a dry turkey, baste the turkey regularly with melted butter or olive oil. You can also use a Traeger spray to baste the turkey.
* To avoid an undercooked turkey, cook the turkey for the recommended amount of time. You can also use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey.
* To avoid an overcooked turkey, cook the turkey for less time than the recommended amount of time. You can also use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey.

Cooking a turkey on a Traeger is a great way to enjoy a delicious and flavorful meal. By following these tips, you can avoid common problems and cook a turkey that is perfectly cooked every time.

How long does it take to cook a turkey on a Traeger?

The cooking time for a turkey on a Traeger will vary depending on the size of the turkey, the temperature of the Traeger, and the desired doneness of the turkey.

* A 10-pound turkey will take approximately 3 hours to cook at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
* A 12-pound turkey will take approximately 3.5 hours to cook at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
* A 14-pound turkey will take approximately 4 hours to cook at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

The cooking time will also vary depending on whether you are using a whole turkey or a turkey breast. Whole turkeys will take longer to cook than turkey breasts.

To ensure that your turkey is cooked properly, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The turkey is done when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

What temperature should I cook a turkey on a Traeger?

The ideal temperature for cooking a turkey on a Traeger is 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature will allow the turkey to cook evenly and prevent it from drying out.

You can also cook a turkey at a higher temperature, such as 400 degrees Fahrenheit. However, this will increase the risk of the turkey drying out.

If you are cooking a turkey breast, you can cook it at a lower temperature, such as 325 degrees Fahrenheit. This will help to keep the turkey breast moist and juicy.

How do I baste a turkey while it cooks on a Traeger?

Basting a turkey while it cooks on a Traeger will help to keep it moist and juicy. To baste a turkey, brush or spray the turkey with melted butter or cooking oil every 30 minutes or so.

You can also baste the turkey with a mixture of melted butter, olive oil, and herbs. This will add flavor to the turkey and help to keep it moist.

How do I know when a turkey is done cooking on a Traeger?

The best way to tell if a turkey is done cooking on a Traeger is to use a meat thermometer. The turkey is done when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

You can also check if the turkey is done by inserting a fork into the thickest part of the thigh. If the juices run clear, the turkey is done.

Can I cook a frozen turkey on a Traeger?

Yes, you can cook a frozen turkey on a Traeger. However, it will take longer to cook than a thawed turkey.

To cook a frozen turkey on a Traeger, follow these steps:

1. Thaw the turkey in the refrigerator for 24-48 hours before cooking.
2. Preheat the Traeger to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
3. Place the turkey on the Traeger and cook for 3-4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

You can also cook a frozen turkey on a Traeger by using the following method:

1. Preheat the Traeger to 250 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Place the turkey on the Traeger and cook for 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
3. Increase the temperature of the Traeger to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and cook for an additional 3-4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

What are some tips for cooking a turkey on a Traeger?

Here are some tips for cooking a turkey on a Traeger:

* 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 every 30 minutes or so with melted butter or cooking oil to help keep it moist.
* If you are cooking a frozen turkey, thaw it in the refrigerator for 24-48 hours before cooking.
* You can also cook a frozen turkey on a Traeger by using the following method:
* Preheat the Traeger to 250 degrees Fahrenheit.
* Place the turkey on the Traeger and cook for 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
* Increase the temperature of the Traeger to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and cook for an additional 3-4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

What are some common mistakes people make when

cooking a turkey on a Traeger is a great way to achieve a delicious and juicy bird. By following the tips in this guide, you can be sure that your turkey will be perfectly cooked every time. So what are you waiting for? Fire up your Traeger and get started!

Here are some key takeaways from this guide:

* The ideal temperature for cooking a turkey on a Traeger is 325 degrees Fahrenheit.
* The cooking time will vary depending on the size of the turkey, but a good rule of thumb is to allow 1 hour per pound.
* To ensure that your turkey is cooked evenly, it is important to baste it regularly with melted butter or cooking oil.
* You can also use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey. The turkey is done when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

With a little planning and preparation, you can easily cook a delicious turkey on your Traeger. So what are you waiting for? Fire up your Traeger and get started!

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!