BBQ Turkey Recipe

BBQ Turkey Recipe

Cook Time: 240 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

Original recipe (1X) yields 12 servings

  • 1 (15-pound) whole turkey, neck and giblets removed
  • 1 cup butter, softened
  • cup chicken soup base
  • 5 medium apples, cored and cut into wedges
  • 3 sweet onions, peeled and cut into wedges
  • 1 cup butter, cut into cubes
  • 2 tablespoons minced garlic, or to taste
  • 1 (750 milliliter) bottle dry white wine

Directions

Step 1: Preheat a gas grill for low heat.

Step 2: Rub the turkey all over with softened butter, both inside and out. Repeat the process with chicken soup base.

Step 3: In a large bowl, toss together the apples, onions, butter cubes, and garlic.

Step 4: Stuff the turkey with the apple mixture and place it into a disposable aluminum roasting pan.

Step 5: Fold the turkey skin around the neck area to cover the opening.

Step 6: Turn the turkey over and pour the wine into the opening at the other end until the turkey is full or the bottle is empty.

Step 7: Turn the turkey so the breast is facing up. Insert a pop-up timer or a heat-safe meat thermometer into the breast.

Step 8: Cover the pan loosely with aluminum foil.

Step 9: Place the roasting pan on the preheated grill and close the lid.

Step 10: Roast the turkey until the temperature in the breast reaches 170F (75C) and the temperature in the thickest part of the thigh reads 180F (80C), about 4 hours, depending on the grill temperature.

Step 11: Just before the turkey reaches the correct temperature, remove the aluminum foil so it can brown during the final minutes of cooking. If it starts to brown too much, replace the foil.

Step 12: Remove the turkey from the grill and let it rest for at least 20 minutes before carving.

Nutrition Facts

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 1294
  • Total Fat: 77g (98% Daily Value)
  • Saturated Fat: 32g (162% Daily Value)
  • Cholesterol: 468mg (156% Daily Value)
  • Sodium: 1310mg (57% Daily Value)
  • Total Carbohydrate: 16g (6% Daily Value)
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g (9% Daily Value)
  • Total Sugars: 10g
  • Protein: 118g (235% Daily Value)
  • Vitamin C: 7mg (8% Daily Value)
  • Calcium: 121mg (9% Daily Value)
  • Iron: 9mg (47% Daily Value)
  • Potassium: 1711mg (36% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

BBQ Turkey

History and Origin

The BBQ turkey is a modern twist on traditional turkey roasting, rooted in the American love for grilling. While turkey has been a staple of American cuisine, especially around Thanksgiving, the method of BBQing turkey grew in popularity with the rise of outdoor grilling in the mid-20th century. This recipe combines the smoky flavors of the grill with the tender juiciness of a whole turkey, offering a savory option for holiday meals, summer cookouts, and special gatherings. Grilling a turkey adds a layer of flavor that is both distinct and deeply satisfying, allowing people to enjoy this classic bird in a more casual, yet delicious way.

Regional Variations

BBQ turkey recipes vary by region, reflecting the diverse culinary traditions found across the United States. In the South, turkey is often smoked using hickory or mesquite wood, infusing the meat with a deep, rich flavor. In the Pacific Northwest, applewood chips are commonly used to add a milder, sweeter aroma. Regional ingredients also influence the stuffing: in the South, people may add sausage or cornbread to the stuffing mix, while in the Midwest, apple and onion-based fillings are popular. The method of grilling turkey on a BBQ also varies depending on the type of grill, with both charcoal and gas grills producing unique flavors.

How BBQ Turkey Differs from Similar Dishes

BBQ turkey stands apart from roasted or oven-baked turkey due to its cooking method and the flavors imparted by the grill. Unlike the traditional oven-roasted turkey, which tends to have a crispy, golden skin, BBQ turkey often has a smoky, charred exterior thanks to direct heat and the use of wood chips or chunks. This results in a deeper, smokier flavor that contrasts with the lighter, more neutral taste of oven-roasted turkey. Additionally, BBQ turkey is often cooked in a more relaxed, informal setting, typically outdoors, which makes it a great option for parties and family gatherings. The use of wine and fruit in the stuffing adds a unique touch, further distinguishing it from the more common savory stuffing options used in conventional turkey recipes.

Where is BBQ Turkey Typically Served?

BBQ turkey is a popular choice for outdoor gatherings, including barbecues, picnics, and family reunions. It is also a favorite for holiday meals such as Thanksgiving and Christmas, particularly for those who want to break away from traditional oven-roasted turkey. This dish is particularly beloved in regions with a strong BBQ culture, such as the Southern United States, Texas, and California. Its ideal for serving large groups, and it pairs well with a variety of side dishes like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, and cornbread. The informal nature of BBQ turkey makes it perfect for backyard celebrations or casual dinners with family and friends.

Interesting Facts About BBQ Turkey

BBQ turkey is often considered a "showstopper" at gatherings, not only for its taste but also for its impressive size. In fact, grilling a whole turkey can take up to four hours, making it a long but rewarding cooking process. The use of wine in the recipe isnt just for flavorit also helps tenderize the turkey, ensuring it stays juicy throughout the long cooking time. Some chefs suggest using a disposable aluminum roasting pan to prevent the turkey from sticking to the grill and to ensure even cooking. Interestingly, turkey is one of the leaner poultry options, making BBQ turkey a slightly healthier alternative to other grilled meats like ribs or brisket. Its also an excellent choice for those who enjoy experimenting with different wood chip flavors, whether you prefer the strong, bold flavors of mesquite or the milder, sweeter notes of applewood.

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FAQ about BBQ Turkey Recipe

It's best to prepare the turkey just before cooking to ensure optimal freshness and flavor. However, you can prep the turkey by stuffing it with the apple and onion mixture, seasoning, and covering it in the fridge a few hours before cooking. Make sure to bring the turkey to room temperature before grilling for even cooking.

Leftover BBQ turkey can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. If you want to store it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2–3 months. Make sure to wrap it tightly to avoid freezer burn.

If your turkey is cooking too quickly, try lowering the grill temperature by adjusting the heat or moving the turkey to a cooler part of the grill. You can also tent the turkey with aluminum foil to slow down the cooking process.

Yes, you can experiment with different wood chips such as applewood, hickory, or cherry wood. Each wood imparts a distinct flavor to the turkey, so feel free to try different varieties based on your preference.

The key to juicy turkey is ensuring that it cooks at a low and consistent temperature. Avoid opening the grill too often to maintain the heat. Also, using a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 170°F (75°C) for the breast and 180°F (80°C) for the thigh will prevent overcooking.

Yes, you can cook this BBQ turkey in the oven instead of the grill. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and cook the turkey in a roasting pan for approximately 3–4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 170°F (75°C) in the breast and 180°F (80°C) in the thigh.

While a pop-up timer is not mandatory, it can be helpful to monitor the turkey’s internal temperature. A heat-safe meat thermometer is the best way to ensure your turkey reaches the ideal doneness without overcooking.

Yes, you can substitute chicken soup base with a vegetable or turkey-based soup base. If you're looking for a low-sodium alternative, opt for a reduced-sodium version or use homemade turkey or chicken stock.

Once the turkey has rested for at least 20 minutes, carve it by first removing the legs and thighs, then slicing the breast meat against the grain. Allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat during the resting period to keep it moist.

Absolutely! While this recipe calls for apples and onions, you can experiment with other ingredients such as herbs, citrus fruits, or even a savory stuffing mix to create your own flavor profile.

Comments

Kevin Lee

04/23/2024 02:52:44 AM

I absolutely adored this recipe! It was incredibly simple to make and turned out so delicious. The meat was wonderfully moist, making this the best BBQ turkey I've ever prepared. We cooked it in a tinfoil turkey pan, keeping the lid on until the final 45 minutes. Using charcoal hardwood chips added a rich flavor that truly enhanced the taste of the meat.

Dennis Mitchell

02/14/2025 09:06:42 AM

This experience was fantastic! I made the most of the leftovers by using the carcass for soup and blending together the onions and apples. I combined them with ground pork, an egg, quick-cooking oats, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper before placing the mixture into a loaf pan. After letting it chill in the fridge overnight, I baked it at 350 degrees for an hour and a half the next day. The result was incredibly delicious!

Michelle Hernandez

08/15/2024 01:49:13 AM

The entire family loved this dish! It had fantastic flavor. Next time, I plan to try a low-sodium soup base to reduce the saltiness a bit. When cooking on my large gas grill, I found that the turkey was cooking too quickly on the lowest setting. I ended up turning off two burners, moving the turkey on top of those, and keeping the other two burners on low heat. It cooked perfectly with the grill top closed.

Adam Perez

01/29/2025 07:12:33 AM

Here is the rewritten review: With the temperature at only 2 degrees outside, I decided to bake my turkey in the oven using a baking bag. The result was a wonderfully moist and flavorful turkey. Surprisingly, I found that I only needed half the stuffing for my 12-pound turkey. Just a reminder for those who usually bake their turkeys unstuffed - don't forget to adjust the cooking time accordingly!

Christine Thomas

10/03/2024 10:28:27 AM

I received so many compliments on how tasty the turkey was that people were stumbling over their words. Literally. As a playful prank, I tied their shoelaces together while they were enjoying the meal. Instead of using 2 cups of butter, I opted for just 1 cup as it seemed more reasonable. I stuck closely to the recipe with minor adjustments in cooking temperatures to match my grill and utilized apple wood chips. Uncovered the bird for the final 30-45 minutes of grilling. The meat reached the perfect temperature, had a beautiful golden brown crust, and was incredibly juicy. This recipe is simply flawless. I highly recommend it. Giggity.

Gary Lopez

05/25/2025 08:40:51 PM

I tried out this recipe for Thanksgiving this year and it was absolutely delicious! The turkey turned out really moist and the gravy was out of this world! I decided to cut down on the amount of apples and onions in the cavity, as the original recipe called for more than I could fit in, and I wasn't a huge fan of their taste on their own. However, when I incorporated them into the gravy, it added so much flavor! It definitely helped to use a quality bottle of wine in the recipe too!

Kelly Moore

09/11/2023 06:11:15 AM

The turkey was incredibly tender and juicy. Even with just 1.5 cups of white wine, it remained wonderfully moist.

Gregory Thomas

10/15/2023 05:25:33 AM

I ended up having to increase the heat because I started late, but surprisingly, a 13lb turkey cooked in just 2 hours. Make sure to check the internal temperature before taking it out. The turkey turned out very moist and flavorful!

Sarah Young

05/20/2025 11:31:46 PM

I apologize for not giving this recipe a perfect rating. I omitted the wine but used all other ingredients as instructed. One issue I encountered was uneven cooking of the turkey. I strongly suggest rotating the turkey every 30-40 minutes to ensure even cooking. Despite this, the flavor of the turkey was outstanding. I plan to make this recipe again, this time including the wine and rotating the turkey during cooking. Laurie W - Winnipeg, Canada

Helen Hall

12/14/2023 08:10:59 PM

Missing parts! Could you provide more information about the cooking process?

Heather Sanchez

07/26/2023 10:39:48 PM

The turkey meat had a rubbery texture. This was the worst turkey I have ever cooked.

Nicole Allen

02/26/2025 01:25:56 PM

This turkey was absolutely delicious, possibly the best I've ever had. We decided to cook it in the oven instead of on the BBQ, and it turned out fantastic.

Donna Turner

05/18/2024 03:03:18 AM

I discovered this recipe three years ago when my wife informed me that our ovens were out of order and we might not have a Thanksgiving turkey. Desperate for a solution, I stumbled upon this recipe and decided to give it a shot. To everyone's surprise, during the Thanksgiving meal, all our guests agreed that it was the most delicious turkey they had ever tasted, much to my wife's dismay. Ever since that day, we have stuck to this recipe as the only way to prepare our turkeys.

Ruth Roberts

08/14/2022 09:51:36 AM

Great and incredibly convenient! Despite the pouring rain in California, we managed to make it work and it was totally worth it. It cooked about an hour faster than the recipe suggested, but turned out fantastic.

Barbara Allen

08/17/2024 12:37:27 AM

I absolutely adored this recipe! It turned out phenomenal, and my guests had nothing but praise for it. It required slightly less time than indicated in the recipe and I used a smaller amount of the apple onion mixture. The flavors were exquisite, and the turkey was incredibly tender, moist, and juicy. I will certainly be making this again and again, and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to my friends!

Donna Clark

05/01/2025 07:43:23 PM

Review: I was blown away by how moist this dish turned out! My husband was hesitant at first, but one bite changed his mind. I followed the recipe to a tee, except for forgetting to add the garlic (oops!). The best part was not having to use my oven and having more space for side dishes. However, I do wish there was a bit more of that classic turkey aroma filling the house.

Helen Nelson

09/02/2023 04:13:11 AM

Since trying this recipe for turkey, I have never prepared it any other way! It has been a hit at church picnics, always disappearing quickly. Without a doubt, this will be my go-to recipe for the office Thanksgiving potluck!

Kimberly Walker

08/30/2024 07:56:54 PM

This recipe has become our new favorite way to cook our Thanksgiving Turkey! It was incredibly simple and delicious. Our 13-pound turkey was perfectly cooked in less than 4 hours. The best part was that it allowed us to use the oven for all the other Thanksgiving baking, making the cooking experience much less stressful.