Description
A succulent and smoky Traeger spatchcock turkey that’s perfect for any gathering, infused with rich flavors and prepared with ease.
Ingredients
Scale
- 11 LB whole turkey
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup BBQ rub (or poultry seasoning)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp pepper
- 1 tsp fresh chopped rosemary
- 1 tsp fresh chopped thyme
- ¼ cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tbsp salted butter
- ½ cup salted butter
- 2 tbsp garlic, diced
- 1 tbsp fresh chopped parsley
- ½ medium lemon, freshly squeezed
Instructions
- Remove the turkey from its packaging, discard any inside parts, and pat it dry with paper towels.
- Spatchcock the turkey by cutting along each side of the backbone. Remove the backbone and flatten the turkey breast.
- Mix the softened butter with rosemary, thyme, and salt. Smear the herb butter between the skin and meat for extra flavor (optional).
- Drizzle olive oil over the turkey, then generously apply the BBQ rub, massaging it into the skin for even coverage.
- Chill the seasoned turkey in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to overnight for enhanced flavor (optional).
- Preheat your Traeger smoker to 275°F.
- Smoke the turkey breast side up for about 1.5 hours, or until it reaches a rich golden-brown color.
- Prepare a basting mix by combining BBQ sauce, honey, brown sugar, and garlic. Brush this mixture onto the turkey halfway through smoking for a sweet glaze (optional).
- Increase the smoker temperature to 350°F and brush the turkey with the remaining basting mix.
- Check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F in the breast and 175°F in the thigh for juicy perfection.
- Let the turkey rest under foil for about 30 minutes before carving.
Notes
Make-ahead: Season the turkey the night before. For best results, use a sharp carving knife and follow the natural joints.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Smoking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 52g
- Cholesterol: 120mg