How Long to Smoke a Turkey at 275ºF? 15,17, and 19 Pounds

Thanksgiving is near, so it’s time to start thinking about how you cook your turkey. If you’re planning on smoking your bird, you might wonder how long it will take. 

Here’s a helpful guide for smoking times for turkeys weighing 15, 17, and 19 pounds. Happy cooking!

What is the best temperature to smoke a turkey?

Smoking turkeys is best done at a low temperature, between 250-300 degrees Fahrenheit.

This allows the smoke to slowly penetrate the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful finished product.

If the temperature is too high, the turkey will cook too quickly on the outside while the inside remains raw.

How long does it take to smoke a turkey at 275ºF?

To smoke a turkey at 275ºF takes almost 20-25 minutes per lb. However, cooking times may vary depending on the size and type of turkey as well as the temperature of the smoker.

Therefore, it is always best to use a meat thermometer to check the turkey’s internal temperature before consuming it. 

How long does it take to smoke a turkey at 300 F?

Slow cooking at a low temperature is the key to a juicy, flavorful turkey. Most recipes call for cooking the bird at 325F, but for especially tender, moist meat, it’s best to cook at 300ºF.

That said, it will take almost 15-18 minutes per pound to cook a turkey at this temperature, so be sure to factor in additional cooking time when making your holiday plans.

But trust us, the extra effort will be worth it when you sit down to enjoy a delicious Thanksgiving feast!

Should I smoke the turkey at 275ºF or 300ºF?

Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and, of course, turkey. But with so many different opinions on how to cook the perfect turkey, it can be hard to know what temperature to set the oven at.

Some people say that smoking the turkey at 275 degrees Fahrenheit will give it a more traditional flavor, while others argue that cooking it at 300 degrees will result in a juicier bird. 

So, which is the right approach? The answer may depend on your personal preferences.

• If you’re looking for a more traditional flavor, smoking the turkey at 275 degrees may be the way to go.
• However, if you’re aiming for a juicier bird, cooking it at 300 degrees, Fahrenheit may be a better option.

Ultimately, the decision is up to you. So, whichever temperature you choose, just make sure to enjoy your Thanksgiving feast.

How do I know when the turkey is completely smoked?

When it comes to smoking a turkey, there are a few things to keep in mind.

First, the size of the bird will determine how long it needs to be smoked. A good rule of thumb is to smoke the turkey for about 20-25 minutes per pound.

Second, the smoker’s temperature should be kept at 275 degrees Fahrenheit.

Any higher turkey will dry out; any lower turkey will take longer to cook.

Finally, when it comes to checking if the turkey is done, the best way is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature of the turkey should be at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit before it is safe to eat.

If you don’t have a meat thermometer, you can check to see if the juices run clear when you cut into the turkey.

If the juices are pink, the turkey is not done and needs to cook longer.

Another way to tell if a turkey is cooked is to make sure the thigh meat is no longer pink. Once the thigh meat is cooked, the rest of the turkey should also be.

By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your smoked turkey turns out perfect every time.

How to Smoke Turkey at 275ºF

If you're looking for a delicious and easy smoked turkey recipe, this is the one for you! This recipe uses a simple brine to help keep the turkey moist and then slowly cooks it at a low temperature to ensure it is nice and juicy.

5 from 1 vote

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 4 hours hrs

Resting Time (Overnight) 8 hours hrs

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 8 Servings

Ingredients

  

• 1 Turkey, thawed (12-pound)
• 1/2 cup Kosher salt
• 1/2 cup Sugar
• 1 gallon Water
• 1 can Beer (12-ounce)
• 2 tablespoons Two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons Two tablespoons of vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon One of dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon One tablespoon of smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon One teaspoon of garlic powder

Instructions

 

• In a large container, combine the salt, sugar, and water, and stir until the salt and sugar are dissolved.
• Add the turkey to the brine, and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight.
• Preheat your smoker to 275 degrees F.
• In a small bowl, combine the beer, cider vinegar, oil, thyme, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
• Remove the turkey from the brine, and pat it dry with paper towels.
• Rub the outside of the turkey with the beer mixture.
• Place the turkey in the smoker, and cook for 3 to 4 hours or until the internal temperature of the turkey reaches 165 degrees F.
• Remove the turkey from the smoker, and allow it to rest for 20 minutes before carving.
• Enjoy!

Keyword How long does it take to smoke turkey at 275ºF

Can I add, remove or replace some ingredients?

Yes, of course! This is your recipe, so feel free to make it your own.

If you don’t like beer, you can try using apple juice or chicken broth instead.

You could also add some other spices that you like, such as rosemary or sage.

If you’re not a fan of vinegar, you can leave it out entirely. 

Tips and tricks for a better-smoked turkey

For an even juicier turkey, inject it with your favorite marinade before smoking.

• Brine the turkey for at least 24 hours for the best flavor.
• Soak your wood chips in water for 30 minutes before using them. This will help to create more smoke.
• Use a digital thermometer to ensure that your turkey is perfectly cooked.
• Try different woods for smoking, such as hickory, mesquite, or apple.
• Add more or less smoke, depending on your preference.
• To keep the skin from drying, baste the turkey with butter or olive oil every hour or so during smoking.
• Experiment with different seasonings in the beer mixture for different flavors.
• For extra flavor, stuff the turkey cavity with onions, garlic, and herbs before smoking.
• Place a pan of water in the smoker alongside the turkey to help keep it moist.

If you like crispy skin, remove the turkey from the smoker when it reaches 160 degrees F, and place it in a 400-degree F oven for the last few minutes of cooking.

Final Words

Smoking a turkey is a great way to add flavor and moisture to the meat. Following the above recipe and tips ensures that your smoked turkey turns out perfectly every time. So what are you waiting for? Get smoking!

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