How To Cook A Turkey On A Weber Grill

If you’re looking to take your Thanksgiving dinner up a notch and impress your guests with a perfectly cooked turkey, grilling it on a Weber grill is a fantastic option. Not only does grilling impart a delicious smoky flavor to the meat, but it also gives the turkey a beautiful crispy skin. Follow these simple steps to cook a mouth-watering turkey on your Weber grill!

Step 1: Prep the Turkey

Start by preparing the turkey for grilling. Thaw the turkey completely and remove any giblets or neck from the cavity. Rinse the turkey under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Season the bird generously with your favorite turkey rub or a combination of herbs, spices, salt, and pepper. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Step 2: Set up the Grill

While the turkey is resting, set up your Weber grill for indirect grilling. Using charcoal briquettes or hardwood charcoal, create two charcoal piles on opposite sides of the grill, leaving an empty space in the middle. Place a drip pan in the middle of the grill to catch any drippings and prevent flare-ups. Preheat the grill to a temperature of around 325°F (163°C) using the vents to control airflow.

Step 3: Get Grilling

Once the grill is preheated, it’s time to place the turkey on the cooking grate above the drip pan. Position the turkey with the breast side facing up and the legs pointing towards the back of the grill. Cover the grill with the lid and let the turkey cook undisturbed for about 12-15 minutes per pound, depending on the size of your bird. Remember, a meat thermometer is your best friend to ensure your turkey is cooked to perfection, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.

Once the turkey reaches the desired internal temperature, remove it from the grill and let it rest for at least 20 minutes before carving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a moist and flavorful turkey.
While the turkey is resting, you can use this time to finish up any side dishes or prepare a delicious gravy using the flavorful drippings from the drip pan.
Now it’s time to carve and serve your beautifully grilled turkey! Slice the meat against the grain, arrange it on a platter, and garnish with fresh herbs or citrus slices for an extra touch of elegance.

Grilling a turkey on a Weber grill adds a unique twist to your traditional Thanksgiving feast. The combination of smoky flavors and crispy skin will have everyone going back for seconds. So fire up your grill, gather your loved ones, and enjoy a memorable Thanksgiving meal with a perfectly grilled turkey!

For those looking to elevate their grilling game, the guide offers a plethora of delicious recipes to try. Start with the Beer Can Grilled Turkey for a fun and unique twist, or the Smoky BBQ Grilled Turkey with Herb Butter for a rich, flavorful experience. If you're in the mood for something refreshing, give the Citrus and Herb Grilled Turkey a go. For a touch of sweetness, the Maple Glazed Grilled Turkey is a must-try. Spice enthusiasts will appreciate the bold flavors of the Cajun Spiced Grilled Turkey. Each recipe is designed to make the most out of your Weber Grill, ensuring juicy, flavorful results every time.

Share your tips and techniques for cooking a turkey on a Weber grill in the Cooking Techniques forum.

FAQ:

Can I cook a whole turkey on a Weber grill?

Yes, you can absolutely cook a whole turkey on a Weber grill. Weber grills are versatile and can handle the task of cooking a turkey to perfection.

What size turkey can I cook on a Weber grill?

The size of the turkey you can cook on a Weber grill depends on the size of your grill. However, most Weber grills can accommodate a turkey up to 22 pounds. It’s important to check the specifications of your specific Weber grill to ensure it can handle the size of turkey you plan to cook.

How do I prepare the turkey before cooking it on a Weber grill?

Before cooking the turkey on a Weber grill, make sure it is fully thawed if frozen. Then, you can season it with your desired spices and herbs. Some popular options include salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and herbs like rosemary or thyme. You can also brine the turkey in a mixture of salt, sugar, and water for added flavor and moisture.

What is the best way to set up a Weber grill for cooking a turkey?

When cooking a turkey on a Weber grill, it’s best to use indirect heat. This means you’ll need to set up the grill for two-zone cooking. Place a drip pan filled with water in the center of the grill and light the burners on one side only. This will create a cooler area next to the drip pan where the turkey can cook indirectly.

How long does it take to cook a turkey on a Weber grill?

The cooking time for a turkey on a Weber grill will vary depending on the size of the turkey and the temperature of your grill. As a general guideline, you can plan on cooking the turkey for about 12-15 minutes per pound at a grill temperature of around 325°F (163°C). However, it’s important to use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the turkey reaches at least 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.

Should I use wood chips or charcoal for added flavor when cooking a turkey on a Weber grill?

Using wood chips or charcoal can add a delicious smoky flavor to your turkey when cooking it on a Weber grill. You can soak wood chips in water for 30 minutes before adding them to a charcoal grill to produce flavorful smoke. If using a gas grill, you can use a smoker box or wrap soaked wood chips in aluminum foil and poke holes for the smoke to escape.

How often should I baste the turkey when cooking it on a Weber grill?

Basting the turkey with its own juices or a marinade can help keep it moist during the cooking process. As a general rule, plan to baste the turkey every 30 minutes to one hour while cooking it on a Weber grill. However, keep in mind that opening the grill too frequently can cause temperature fluctuations, so baste efficiently and quickly.

How To Cook A Turkey On A Weber Grill