How to Grill a Whole Turkey on a Gas Grill: The Ultimate Guide

Grilling a whole turkey is a great way to cook a delicious and juicy bird for your family or friends. It’s also a relatively easy process, as long as you follow a few simple steps. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of grilling a whole turkey on a gas grill, from start to finish. We’ll cover everything from choosing the right turkey to preparing the grill and cooking the bird. So whether you’re a seasoned griller or a complete novice, read on for all the information you need to know about grilling a whole turkey on a gas grill.

Step	Instructions	Tips
1	Preheat your gas grill to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.	Make sure the grill is clean and well-oiled before you start grilling.
2	Rub the turkey with a mixture of olive oil, salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices.	Be sure to season the turkey inside and out.
3	Place the turkey breast-side up on the grill.	If your grill has a drip pan, place it underneath the turkey to catch any drippings.
4	Close the grill and cook the turkey for 15 minutes per pound.	Check the internal temperature of the turkey with a meat thermometer to make sure it reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit before serving.
5	Let the turkey rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.	Enjoy!

Preparing the Turkey

The first step to grilling a whole turkey is to properly prepare it. This includes choosing the right turkey, thawing it, brining it, removing the giblets, and drying it.

Choosing the right turkey

When choosing a turkey for grilling, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, consider the size of your grill. A large turkey will need a large grill, while a smaller turkey can be grilled on a smaller grill. Second, consider the type of turkey you want. There are two main types of turkeys: heritage turkeys and commercial turkeys. Heritage turkeys are raised on small farms and have a richer flavor than commercial turkeys. Commercial turkeys are raised in large barns and are less expensive than heritage turkeys.

Thawing the turkey

If you are buying a frozen turkey, you will need to thaw it before grilling it. The best way to thaw a turkey is to place it in the refrigerator for 24 hours per pound. You can also thaw a turkey in a sink full of cold water. Make sure to change the water every few hours to keep the turkey cold.

Brining the turkey

Brining is a process that helps to keep the turkey moist and flavorful. To brine a turkey, you will need to dissolve 1 cup of salt in 1 gallon of water. Place the turkey in the brine and refrigerate it for 12-24 hours.

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 open the bag and discard any contents that are not edible. The giblets can be used to make gravy.

Drying the turkey

Before grilling the turkey, you will need to dry it thoroughly. This will help to create a crispy skin. To dry the turkey, you can pat it dry with paper towels or place it in a roasting pan and let it air dry for several hours.

Grilling the Turkey

Once the turkey is prepared, you can start grilling it. Here are the steps to grilling a whole turkey on a gas grill:

1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. Apply a rub to the turkey. You can use any rub you like, but some popular options include a dry rub, a wet rub, or a marinade.
3. Place the turkey on the grill. If you are using a gas grill, you will need to use indirect heat. This means that you will need to place the turkey on the grill grates away from the heat source.
4. Grill the turkey for 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
5. Let the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes before carving it.

Determining when the turkey is done

The best way to determine when a turkey is done is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh, away from the bone. The turkey is done when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Tips for grilling a whole turkey

Here are a few tips for grilling a whole turkey:

Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the turkey is cooked to the correct temperature.
Grill the turkey over indirect heat. This will help to keep the turkey moist.
Baste the turkey with melted butter or cooking oil every 30 minutes or so. This will help to keep the turkey moist and flavorful.
Let the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes before carving it. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

Here are some additional tips for grilling a whole turkey

If you are grilling a frozen turkey, you will need to thaw it before grilling it. The best way to thaw a frozen turkey is to place it in the refrigerator for 24 hours per pound. You can also thaw a turkey in a sink full of cold water. Make sure to change the water every few hours to keep the turkey cold.

Brining a turkey is a great way to keep the turkey moist and flavorful. To brine a turkey, you will need to dissolve 1 cup of salt in 1 gallon of water. Place the turkey in the brine and refrigerate it for 12-24 hours.

Removing the giblets from a turkey is a simple process. The giblets are typically found in a bag inside the turkey’s cavity. To remove the giblets, you will

How to Grill a Whole Turkey on a Gas Grill

Grilling a whole turkey is a great way to cook a delicious and juicy bird for your family or friends. It’s also a relatively easy process, as long as you follow a few simple steps.

Ingredients

1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)
1 cup of vegetable oil
1 tablespoon of salt
1 teaspoon of black pepper
1 teaspoon of garlic powder
1 teaspoon of onion powder
1 teaspoon of dried oregano
1 teaspoon of dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar
1/2 cup of water

Instructions

1. Prepare the turkey. Rinse the turkey inside and out with cold water. Pat dry with paper towels.
2. Season the turkey. In a small bowl, combine the vegetable oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, and cayenne pepper. Rub the mixture all over the turkey, inside and out.

3. Marinate the turkey. Place the turkey in a large roasting pan or disposable aluminum pan. Pour the apple cider vinegar and water over the turkey. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.

4. Preheat the grill. Preheat the gas grill to medium heat (350-400 degrees Fahrenheit).
5. Grill the turkey. Remove the turkey from the marinade and place it breast-side up on the grill. Cover the grill and cook for 1 hour.

6. Turn the turkey. After 1 hour, carefully turn the turkey over so that the breast is facing down. Cover the grill and cook for another 1 hour.

7. Check the internal temperature. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh. The turkey is done when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

8. Rest the turkey. Remove the turkey from the grill and let it rest for at least 30 minutes before carving.

Carving the Turkey

1. Rest the turkey. After removing the turkey from the grill, let it rest for at least 30 minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and the meat to become more tender.

2. Carve the turkey. Place the turkey on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, cut the turkey along the breastbone and backbone. Remove the legs and wings. Cut the breast meat into slices.

3. Serve the turkey. Serve the turkey immediately or keep it warm in a chafing dish or slow cooker.

Serving the Turkey

There are many different ways to serve a grilled turkey. Here are a few ideas:

Carve the turkey and serve it with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, green beans, and stuffing.
Shred the turkey meat and use it to make a turkey sandwich.
Make a turkey pot pie or casserole.
Freeze the leftover turkey meat for later use.

Grilling a whole turkey is a great way to cook a delicious and juicy bird for your family or friends. It’s also a relatively easy process, as long as you follow a few simple steps. So fire up your grill and get ready to enjoy a delicious grilled turkey!

Tips for Grilling a Whole Turkey

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey. The turkey is done when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Don’t overcook the turkey. Overcooked turkey is dry and tough.
Let the turkey rest for at least 30 minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and the meat to become more tender.
Serve the turkey immediately or keep it warm in a chafing dish or slow cooker.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Temperature Should I Set My Gas Grill To For Cooking A Whole Turkey?

Answer: The ideal temperature for grilling a whole turkey on a gas grill is between 325°F to 350°F. Maintaining this range ensures even cooking without burning the skin.

2. How Long Does It Take To Grill A Whole Turkey On A Gas Grill?

Answer: The cooking time varies depending on the size of the turkey, but a general rule is about 11-15 minutes per pound at a grill temperature of around 325°F to 350°F. Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.

3. Should I Cover The Turkey While Grilling?

Answer: Yes, it’s advisable to cover the turkey. This helps in maintaining a consistent temperature around the turkey, ensuring even cooking and preventing flare-ups.

4. How Do I Keep The Turkey Moist While Grilling?

Answer: To keep the turkey moist, use a drip pan filled with water or broth beneath the grilling surface. Basting the turkey periodically with its juices or a marinade also helps retain moisture.

5. Is It Necessary To Use A Meat Thermometer When Grilling A Turkey?

Answer: Absolutely. Using a meat thermometer is crucial to ensure the turkey reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F in the thickest part of the breast and 175°F in the thigh, without overcooking.

Final Word

Grilling a whole turkey on a gas grill is an excellent way to infuse rich, smoky flavors into your festive meal. This method provides a twist to the traditional oven roasting, offering a juicy, evenly-cooked bird with a crispy skin.

To achieve the best results, it’s essential to maintain a consistent temperature, use indirect heat, and frequently monitor the turkey. The use of a drip pan and a meat thermometer ensures the turkey is cooked perfectly without drying out. Basting the turkey periodically and using aromatic herbs can further enhance its flavor.

In conclusion, grilling a whole turkey on a gas grill is a rewarding experience that requires attention to detail and patience. The key lies in preparation, temperature control, and timing.

By following these guidelines, you can present a delectable, beautifully grilled turkey that is sure to impress your guests. This method not only adds a unique flavor profile to your holiday feast but also allows you to enjoy the outdoors, making the cooking process as enjoyable as the meal itself.