Smoked Turkey Oven Recipe: The Ultimate Guide

Fresh or Frozen

Fresh turkeys are excellent, but they can be hard to find. If you decide to go for frozen turkeys, make sure to buy it a few days before you plan to smoke it, and store it securely in the refrigerator until you are ready to use it.

Size

A good rule of thumb is to plan for around 1 pound of turkey for each guest. If you are planning to have leftovers, then you may want to up that amount to 1.5 pounds per person.

Quality

When selecting a turkey, look for a plump bird with smooth, unblemished skin. The flesh should also be firm to the touch. Avoid any turkeys that have bruises, cuts, or tears in the skin.

Cleaning the Turkey

Once you have selected your turkey, it’s time to clean it before cooking.

Start by removing the giblets and neck from the cavity. Rinse the turkey thoroughly inside and out under cold running water. Use paper towels to pat the turkey dry both on the inside and outside. Make sure to clean off any feather remnants from the skin that may have been left behind.

Preparing the Turkey

Now that your turkey is cleaned, it’s essential to prepare it, so it’s ready to go into the smoker. Here are some tips for preparing your turkey:

Brining

Brining is a process of soaking the turkey in a saltwater bath, which helps to flavor and moisten it. Add sufficient amount of salt to room-temperature water, then submerge the turkey, and let it sit for a minimum of 6 hours (the longer, the better, preferably overnight).

If you are looking for further flavor enhancement, add some herbs, spices, or sugar to the brine.

Before placing the turkey in the smoker, take the turkey out of the brine and rinse it off under cold water. Pat it dry with paper towels.

Seasoning

Before smoking, season your turkey with salt, pepper, and any other favorite seasonings inside and out. You can also rub butter, olive oil, or other flavor-enhancing ingredients under the turkey skin.

Smoker Setup

Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). Add wood chips or chunks to produce smoke. Place the turkey in the smoker on the grill rack, and set the timer.

Tips for a Perfect Smoked Turkey

Don’t want to end up with a turkey that’s too dry or undercooked? Here are some tips for ensuring your smoked turkey comes out delicious and juicy:

Use a Meat Thermometer

Using a meat thermometer is one of the most critical aspects of smoking a turkey. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the turkey’s thigh (without touching the bone). When the turkey reaches an internal temperature 165°F (73.9°C), it is fully cooked.

Baste Regularly

Basting helps keep the turkey moist while also adding flavor. Brush melted butter or olive oil over the bird every hour or so throughout the cooking process.

Cooking Time

The amount of time it takes to smoke a turkey depends on the size of the bird and the temperature inside the smoker. Plan on smoking your turkey for 30-45 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (73.9°C).

Resting Time

After you remove your turkey from the smoker, let it rest for at least 15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, creating a more flavorful and moist bird.

Smoked Turkey Oven Recipe

Finally, the moment you have been waiting for- the recipe for smoking your turkey in the oven.

Ingredients

• 12-15 pounds turkey

• 1 cup kosher salt

• 1/2 cup brown sugar

• 1 gallon of water

• 1 tablespoon black pepper

• 2 tablespoons garlic powder

• 2 tablespoons onion powder

• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika

Method

1. Dissolve the kosher salt and brown sugar in a gallon of water. Add the black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Stir to combine.

2. Place the turkey in a large pot or brining bag, pour the brine over it, and refrigerate for 12 to 24 hours.

3. Preheat the oven to 225°F (107°C).

4. Remove the turkey from the brine and rinse it off under cold water. Pat it dry with paper towels.

5. Season the turkey inside and out with salt and pepper or any of your favorite turkey seasonings.

6. Place the turkey in the oven and let it cook for 30-45 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (73.9°C). Remember to baste every hour or so.

7. Once the turkey is fully cooked, remove it from the oven, let it rest for 15 minutes, and then carve and serve.

Overcooking and Undercooking your Smoked Turkey

Overcooking your smoked turkey can lead to dry, tough meat, while undercooking it can be hazardous to your health. Follow these tips to prevent these common mistakes:

Overcooking

• Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey.

• Baste the turkey frequently with oil to keep it moist.

• Wrap the turkey in foil if it has cooked fully but needs to rest longer.

Undercooking

• Use a meat thermometer to determine the turkey’s internal temperature.

• If the turkey is undercooked, return it to the smoker and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (73.9°C).

• Let the turkey rest for at least 15 minutes to allow the heat to continue cooking the bird once it has been removed from the smoker.

Final Thoughts

Smoked turkey is an excellent way to add flavor and moisture to your holiday meal. By following this recipe and these helpful tips, you can create a delicious and juicy smoked turkey that will have your guests talking about it all year long.

Sources

Cooking Time Guide for Smoked Turkey | Char-Broil®

The Best Oven Baked Turkey Recipe – The Key To Moist Turkey

Smoked Turkey – Ninja Test Kitchen

The Best Smoked Turkey Recipe • The Rustic Elk

FAQS On Smoked Turkey Oven Recipe

What Temperature Should I Set My Oven To When Cooking A Smoked Turkey?

For a smoked turkey oven recipe, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This temperature ensures that the bird is evenly and thoroughly cooked, resulting in a delicious and moist turkey.

How Long Should I Cook A Smoked Turkey In The Oven?

The cooking time for a smoked turkey in the oven will depend on the weight of the turkey. As a general guideline, allow approximately 15 minutes of cooking time per pound of turkey. Therefore, a 12-pound turkey would require around 3 hours of cooking time. It is important to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey, which should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.

Should I Brine The Turkey Before Smoking It In The Oven?

Brining a turkey before smoking it in the oven is a great way to enhance its flavor and ensure it stays moist during the cooking process. To brine, fill a large container with a solution of water, salt, sugar, and desired herbs or spices. Submerge the turkey in the brine and refrigerate for a recommended time of 12-24 hours before cooking. Remember to rinse the turkey thoroughly and pat it dry before placing it in the oven.

Do I Need To Baste The Smoked Turkey While It Is Cooking In The Oven?

Basting is not necessary for a smoked turkey in the oven. The smoking process already adds plenty of flavor and moisture to the meat. However, if you prefer, you can occasionally brush the turkey’s skin with melted butter or oil to enhance the golden color and crispiness.

Can I Use A Regular Oven For A Smoked Turkey Recipe?

Yes, you can use a regular oven for a smoked turkey recipe. While traditional smoking involves using a smoker, replicating the smoky flavor in an oven is possible by using wood chips or liquid smoke along with your choice of seasonings. The oven method allows for convenient preparation and cooking, particularly if you don’t have access to a smoker or prefer a more controlled cooking environment.