How To Weber Grill Turkey: The Ultimate Guide For Perfectly Roasted Turkey Goodness

Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and delicious food. And what’s more iconic than a perfectly roasted turkey? If you’re looking to impress your guests this year, why not try grilling your turkey on your Weber grill?

Grilling a turkey is a great way to achieve a crispy, flavorful exterior and a moist, juicy interior. Plus, it’s a relatively easy process that doesn’t require a lot of special equipment.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to weber grill turkey, from choosing the right turkey to prepping and cooking it to perfection. So, grab your apron and let’s get started!

Choosing the Right Turkey:

The first step to grilling a great turkey is choosing the right one. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Size: Choose a turkey that will fit comfortably on your grill. A 12-14 pound turkey is a good size for a Weber grill.
• Fresh vs. Frozen: Fresh turkeys are generally preferred, but frozen turkeys can be just as good if they’re thawed properly.
• Quality: Look for a turkey that is free of bruises and has a plump, moist appearance.

Prepping the Turkey:

Once you’ve chosen your turkey, it’s time to prep it for grilling.

1. Thaw the Turkey (if frozen): If you’re using a frozen turkey, thaw it in the refrigerator for 2-3 days before cooking. You can also thaw it in a sink filled with cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes.
2. Remove the Giblets: Reach inside the turkey cavity and remove the giblets (heart, liver, gizzard). These can be saved for making gravy or stuffing.
3. Rinse the Turkey: Rinse the turkey inside and out with cold water. Pat it dry with paper towels.
4. Season the Turkey: Season the turkey inside and out with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices. You can also add a compound butter or marinade to the turkey for extra flavor.

Setting Up the Grill:

Now it’s time to set up your Weber grill for grilling the turkey.

1. Clean the Grill: Make sure the grill is clean and free of any debris.
2. Prepare the Coals: If you’re using a charcoal grill, light the coals and let them burn until they’re covered with a gray ash.
3. Set Up the Grill for Indirect Cooking: Arrange the coals in a ring around the edges of the grill, leaving the center empty. This will create a hot zone around the edges and a cooler zone in the center, which is where you’ll place the turkey.
4. Add a Drip Pan: Place a drip pan filled with water in the center of the grill, directly below the turkey. This will help to catch any drippings and prevent them from burning.

Cooking the Turkey:

Once the grill is set up, it’s time to cook the turkey.

1. Place the Turkey on the Grill: Place the turkey breast-side up in the center of the grill, over the drip pan.
2. Cover the Grill: Close the lid of the grill and cook the turkey for 2-2.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
3. Baste the Turkey: Every 30 minutes, baste the turkey with the drippings from the drip pan. This will help to keep the turkey moist and flavorful.
4. Rest the Turkey: Once the turkey is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the turkey, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bird.

Carving the Turkey:

Now it’s time to carve the turkey and enjoy the fruits of your labor.

1. Place the Turkey on a Cutting Board: Place the turkey breast-side up on a cutting board.
2. Remove the Legs: Cut through the skin between the leg and the body. Then, bend the leg back and pull it away from the body. Repeat with the other leg.
3. Remove the Wings: Cut through the skin between the wing and the body. Then, bend the wing back and pull it away from the body. Repeat with the other wing.
4. Remove the Breast: Cut through the breastbone and ribs, starting from the neck end and working your way down to the tail. Then, lift the breast meat off the bone. Repeat with the other side of the breast.
5. Slice the Turkey: Slice the turkey breast and legs into thin slices. Arrange the slices on a platter and serve with your favorite sides.

Tips for Perfectly Grilled Turkey:

• Use a brining solution: Brining the turkey in a salt water solution for 24-48 hours before cooking will help to keep it moist and flavorful.
• Use a compound butter or marinade: Rubbing the turkey with a compound butter or marinade will help to add flavor and moisture.
• Baste the turkey frequently: Basting the turkey every 30 minutes will help to keep it moist and prevent it from drying out.
• Use a meat thermometer: The best way to ensure that the turkey is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh, making sure not to touch any bones. The turkey is done when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Let the turkey rest before carving: Letting the turkey rest for 15-20 minutes before carving will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the turkey, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bird.

“Not Just for Thanksgiving”: Alternative Uses for Your Weber Grill Turkey

While Thanksgiving is the traditional time to enjoy a grilled turkey, there are plenty of other opportunities to fire up your Weber grill and cook this delicious bird. Here are a few ideas:

• Summer Turkey Cookout: Invite your friends and family over for a summer cookout and grill a turkey. Serve it with grilled vegetables, corn on the cob, and potato salad for a delicious and festive meal.
• Turkey Tacos: Shred the leftover turkey and use it to make tacos. Top with your favorite taco toppings, such as lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and salsa.
• Turkey Salad Sandwiches: Mix the leftover turkey with mayonnaise, celery, onion, and grapes. Spread on bread and enjoy a delicious and healthy lunch.
• Turkey Soup: Use the leftover turkey bones to make a rich and flavorful turkey soup. Add vegetables, noodles, and herbs for a comforting and hearty meal.

Common Questions and Answers

1. Q: Can I use a frozen turkey?
A: Yes, you can use a frozen turkey. Just make sure to thaw it properly before cooking.
2. Q: How long do I need to cook the turkey?
A: The cooking time will vary depending on the size of the turkey. A 12-14 pound turkey will take about 2-2.5 hours to cook.
3. Q: How do I know when the turkey is done?
A: The best way to tell if the turkey is done is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh, making sure not to touch any bones. The turkey is done when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
4. Q: What should I do if the turkey is dry?
A: If the turkey is dry, you can try basting it with butter or gravy. You can also try covering the turkey with foil for the last 30 minutes of cooking.
5. Q: What are some good side dishes for grilled turkey?
A: Some good side dishes for grilled turkey include mashed potatoes, stuffing, green bean casserole, corn on the cob, and cranberry sauce.