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Grilled Turkey

GrilledMediumPrep 30 minCook 3hServes 12
Grilled Turkey

Indirect grill heat gives you roast-turkey flavor with a whisper of smoke — and again, a free oven.

Ingredients

  • 1 whole turkey (12–14 lb), thawed
  • 4 tbsp butter, softened
  • 2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 lemon, halved
  • 1 drip pan

Steps

  1. Set the grill for indirect heat at 325–350°F, with a drip pan under the bird.
  2. Pat the turkey dry and rub with butter, salt, pepper and thyme. Fill the cavity with the lemon.
  3. Grill with the lid closed, about 11–13 minutes per pound (roughly 2½–3 hours for a 12–14 lb bird), adding coals or adjusting gas to hold the temperature.
  4. Done when the thigh reads 175°F and the breast 165°F. Rest 30 minutes.
Serve with: grilled corn, potato salad and a citrus herb butter.

Keep a spray bottle of water handy for flare-ups, and resist opening the lid: every peek costs heat and time.

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