How To Spatchcock A Turkey Traeger

What is Spatchcocking?

Spatchcocking is a technique that involves removing the backbone of a poultry bird, such as a turkey, and then flattening it out before cooking. This method allows for quicker and more even cooking, resulting in a juicy and flavorful bird.

Why Use a Traeger Grill?

A Traeger grill is a popular choice for cooking a spatchcocked turkey due to its versatility and ability to impart a delicious smoky flavor to the meat. The grill’s consistent temperature control and even heat distribution make it ideal for cooking a large bird like a turkey.

Steps to Spatchcocking a Turkey on a Traeger Grill

Follow these simple steps to spatchcock a turkey on your Traeger grill:

1. Prepare the Turkey: Start by placing the turkey breast-side down on a clean surface. Use a pair of sharp kitchen shears to cut along both sides of the backbone to remove it. Once the backbone is removed, flip the turkey over and press down firmly on the breastbone to flatten it out.
2. Season the Turkey: Generously season the spatchcocked turkey with your favorite herbs, spices, and olive oil. This will help to enhance the flavor of the meat and create a delicious crust when grilled.
3. Preheat the Traeger Grill: Preheat your Traeger grill to 350°F (175°C) and ensure that the grill grates are clean and well-oiled to prevent the turkey from sticking.
4. Grill the Turkey: Once the grill is preheated, place the spatchcocked turkey directly on the grill grates, skin-side up. Close the lid and cook the turkey for approximately 12-15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the meat.
5. Rest and Carve: Once the turkey is cooked, carefully remove it from the grill and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a moist and tender turkey.

Tips for Spatchcocking a Turkey on a Traeger Grill

Here are some additional tips to ensure a successful spatchcocked turkey on your Traeger grill:

• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure that the turkey is cooked to perfection, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. This will help prevent overcooking and ensure that the meat is safe to eat.
• Brine the Turkey: Consider brining the turkey before spatchcocking to add flavor and moisture to the meat. A simple brine of water, salt, sugar, and aromatics can work wonders for the final result.
• Monitor the Grill Temperature: Keep an eye on the Traeger grill temperature throughout the cooking process to ensure that it remains consistent. Fluctuations in temperature can affect the overall cooking time and result in unevenly cooked meat.
• Experiment with Wood Pellets: Traeger grills offer a variety of wood pellets that can impart different flavors to the turkey. Experiment with different wood pellet flavors to find your favorite combination.

Conclusion

Spatchcocking a turkey on a Traeger grill is a simple and effective way to achieve a juicy and flavorful bird. By following the steps outlined above and incorporating some helpful tips, you can impress your family and friends with a delicious spatchcocked turkey cooked to perfection on your Traeger grill.