1. Home
  2. Food & Drink
  3. Barbecues & Grilling

Smoking Turkey - Step by Step

By , About.com Guide

5 of 10

Smoker Temperature - Smoking Turkey

Smoker Temperature - Smoking Turkey

Smoker Temperature - Smoking Turkey

Regarding BBQ Inc.
The smoker temperature is very important. You want a consistent heat throughout the cooking time. Now this isn't as strict as it would be with more traditional barbecue but consistency is important. You can smoke your turkey anywhere between 200 and 275 degrees F. I recommend staying above 235 degrees F to control bacteria and reduce the cooking time. There is no real benefit to cooking at a lower temperature than that. You can cook at a higher temperature but anything above 275 degrees F isn't going to give you the smoky flavor and tenderness you would want from a smoked turkey.

This is where your smoking experience is going to pay off. Your turkey is going to cook slower at high elevations. Weather will play a big role in the cooking time. The type of smoker you are using will also change times and temperatures. Because of this, all I can offer is suggestions of the cooking time. You may need to adjust your cooking temperature up or down to hit your dinner time right (also plan on an additional 15 minute rest time before you carve).

At 235 degrees F your turkey will take 30 to 35 minutes per pound.
At 250 degrees F your turkey will take 25 to 30 minutes per pound.
At 275 degrees F your turkey will take 20 to 25 minutes per pound.

Explore Barbecues & Grilling

About.com Special Features

Holiday Central

What to eat, where to go, fun things to do and how to save money on the perfect gifts. More >

All-Star Football Food

Try these gameday recipes that are sure to please any fan. More >

  1. Home
  2. Food & Drink
  3. Barbecues & Grilling

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.