How Long to Cook a Spatchcock Turkey on a Gas Grill

How Long to Cook a Spatchcock Turkey on a Gas Grill

The spatchcock turkey is a popular way to cook a turkey for Thanksgiving or Christmas. It’s a great option for those who want a juicy, flavorful bird that’s easy to carve. Spatchcocking a turkey involves removing the backbone and flattening the bird out, which allows it to cook evenly and quickly.

If you’re planning on cooking a spatchcock turkey on a gas grill, there are a few things you need to know. First, you’ll need to make sure your grill is hot enough. The ideal temperature for cooking a spatchcock turkey is between 350F and 400F. Second, you’ll need to cook the turkey for the correct amount of time. A spatchcock turkey will typically take between 1 and 1 1/2 hours to cook, depending on its size.

In this article, we’ll discuss how to spatchcock a turkey, how to cook it on a gas grill, and how to know when it’s done. We’ll also provide some tips for making the best spatchcock turkey you’ve ever tasted.

So if you’re ready to learn how to cook a spatchcock turkey on a gas grill, keep reading!

Time Temperature Instructions
25-30 minutes per pound 350 degrees Fahrenheit Preheat your gas grill to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Remove the giblets from the turkey and rinse the turkey inside and out.
Pat the turkey dry with paper towels.
Truss the turkey.
Brush the turkey with olive oil.
Place the turkey breast-side up on the grill.
Cook the turkey for 25-30 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Let the turkey rest for 10 minutes before carving.

Preparing the Spatchcock Turkey

Spatchcocking is a method of preparing a turkey by removing the backbone and flattening the bird out. This makes it cook more evenly and quickly, and it also allows you to get more flavorful skin on the bird.

To spatchcock a turkey, you will need:

  • A sharp knife
  • A cutting board
  • A pair of kitchen shears

1. Remove the giblets from the turkey cavity.
2. Place the turkey breast-side up on a cutting board.
3. Using a sharp knife, cut along both sides of the backbone, starting at the neck and working down to the tail.
4. Use the kitchen shears to cut through the backbone at the joint.
5. Flip the turkey over and press down on the breastbone to flatten the bird.

You can now season the turkey and cook it according to your preferred method.

Brining the turkey

Brining is a great way to add flavor and moisture to a turkey. To brine a turkey, you will need:

  • A large container
  • Cold water
  • Salt
  • Sugar
  • Optional: herbs, spices, or other flavorings

1. Fill a large container with cold water.
2. Add salt and sugar to the water, at a ratio of 1 cup of salt to 1 gallon of water.
3. Stir until the salt and sugar are dissolved.
4. Add the turkey to the brine and place it in the refrigerator.
5. Brine the turkey for 12-24 hours, depending on the size of the turkey.

Marinating the turkey

Marinating is another great way to add flavor to a turkey. To marinate a turkey, you will need:

  • A large bowl or bag
  • Olive oil
  • Vinegar
  • Soy sauce
  • Garlic
  • Onion
  • Fresh herbs
  • Spices
  • Optional: other flavorings

1. In a large bowl or bag, combine the olive oil, vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, onion, herbs, and spices.
2. Add the turkey to the marinade and turn to coat.
3. Marinate the turkey for 4-24 hours, depending on the desired flavor.

Cooking the Spatchcock Turkey on a Gas Grill

Cooking a spatchcock turkey on a gas grill is a great way to get a flavorful, juicy bird. To cook a spatchcock turkey on a gas grill, you will need:

  • A gas grill
  • A meat thermometer
  • Optional: wood chips or chunks for smoking

1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. If you are using wood chips or chunks for smoking, place them in a smoker box and add them to the grill.
3. Place the turkey breast-side up on the grill.
4. Cook the turkey for 1-1.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
5. Baste the turkey with melted butter or cooking spray every 15 minutes.
6. Flip the turkey over and cook for an additional 1-1.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
7. Baste the turkey with melted butter or cooking spray every 15 minutes.
8. Let the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.

Temperature and time

The cooking time for a spatchcock turkey will vary depending on the size of the turkey. A 12-pound turkey will take approximately 2-2.5 hours to cook, while a 15-pound turkey will take approximately 2.5-3 hours to cook.

Grilling techniques

There are a few different grilling techniques you can use to cook a spatchcock turkey. You can grill the turkey directly over the heat, or you can indirect grill the turkey.

To direct grill the turkey, place it directly over the heat source. This will give the turkey a nice char on the outside.

To indirect grill the turkey, place it on the grill away from the heat source. This will help to keep the turkey moist.

Basting the turkey

Basting the turkey will help to keep it moist and flavorful. You can baste the turkey with melted butter, cooking spray, or a mixture of oil and vinegar.

Spatchcocking a turkey is a great way to cook a flavorful, juicy bird. It is also a relatively easy process that can be done by anyone. By following these steps, you can cook a delicious spatchcock turkey on your

How Long to Cook a Spatchcock Turkey on a Gas Grill?

Spatchcocking is a popular cooking method for turkeys because it allows the bird to cook evenly and quickly. The word “spatchcock” comes from the Old English word “spatchok,” which means “to split open.” When you spatchcock a turkey, you cut it down the backbone and then flatten it out. This exposes more of the meat to the heat, which helps it cook faster.

To spatchcock a turkey, you will need a sharp knife, a cutting board, and a meat mallet.

1. Place the turkey breast-side up on a cutting board.
2. Using a sharp knife, cut along the backbone, starting at the neck and working your way down to the tail.
3. Open the turkey up like a book.
4. Using the meat mallet, gently pound the breastbone to flatten the turkey.

Once the turkey is spatchcocked, you can cook it on a gas grill. The cooking time will vary depending on the size of the turkey, but it will typically take about 1 hour per pound.

To cook a spatchcock turkey on a gas grill, follow these steps:

1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. Brush the turkey with oil or cooking spray.
3. Place the turkey breast-side up on the grill.
4. Cook the turkey for 1 hour per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
5. Baste the turkey with melted butter or olive oil every 15 minutes.
6. Remove the turkey from the grill and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.

Carving and Serving the Spatchcock Turkey

Carving a spatchcock turkey is a simple process. To carve the turkey, follow these steps:

1. Place the turkey on a cutting board.
2. Cut along the breastbone, starting at the neck and working your way down to the tail.
3. Remove the breast meat from the turkey.
4. Cut the wings off the turkey.
5. Cut the legs off the turkey.
6. Carve the breast meat into slices.
7. Carve the thigh meat into pieces.
8. Carve the leg meat into pieces.

Once the turkey is carved, you can serve it immediately or refrigerate it for later.

Here are some serving suggestions for spatchcock turkey:

  • Serve the turkey with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, stuffing, and vegetables.
  • Make a turkey sandwich with the leftover meat.
  • Use the turkey meat to make soup or stew.
  • Freeze the leftover meat for later use.

Tips and Tricks for Cooking a Spatchcock Turkey on a Gas Grill

Here are some tips and tricks for cooking a spatchcock turkey on a gas grill:

  • Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey. The turkey is done cooking when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Baste the turkey with melted butter or olive oil every 15 minutes to keep it moist.
  • If the turkey is starting to brown too quickly, move it to a cooler part of the grill.
  • Let the turkey rest for 10 minutes before carving to allow the juices to redistribute.
  • Make sure to clean the grill after cooking the turkey to avoid cross-contamination.

Spatchcocking is a great way to cook a turkey because it allows the bird to cook evenly and quickly. The resulting turkey is moist and flavorful, and it’s perfect for a holiday meal or any other special occasion.

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

It takes about 1.5-2 hours to cook a spatchcock turkey on a gas grill. The cooking time will vary depending on the size of the turkey and the temperature of the grill.

What temperature should I cook a spatchcock turkey on a gas grill?

You should cook a spatchcock turkey on a gas grill at a temperature of 350-400 degrees Fahrenheit.

What is the best way to spatchcock a turkey?

The best way to spatchcock a turkey is to use a sharp knife to cut through the backbone, then flip the turkey over and press down on the breastbone to flatten it out.

What are some tips for cooking a spatchcock turkey on a gas grill?

Here are some tips for cooking a spatchcock turkey on a gas grill:

  • Make sure the turkey is completely thawed before cooking.
  • Marinate the turkey in a flavorful liquid, such as a brine or a dry rub, for several hours or overnight.
  • Preheat the grill to 350-400 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Cook the turkey for 1.5-2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Baste the turkey with the marinade or drippings every 30 minutes or so.
  • Let the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.

What are some common mistakes people make when cooking a spatchcock turkey on a gas grill?

Some common mistakes people make when cooking a spatchcock turkey on a gas grill include:

  • Not thawing the turkey completely before cooking.
  • Marinating the turkey for too long or not long enough.
  • Not preheating the grill to the correct temperature.
  • Cooking the turkey for too long or not long enough.
  • Not basting the turkey with the marinade or drippings.
  • Not letting the turkey rest before carving.

What are some of the benefits of cooking a spatchcock turkey on a gas grill?

There are several benefits to cooking a spatchcock turkey on a gas grill, including:

  • The turkey cooks evenly and quickly.
  • The skin gets crispy and flavorful.
  • The meat is moist and juicy.
  • The turkey is easy to carve.

Overall, cooking a spatchcock turkey on a gas grill is a great way to cook a delicious and flavorful Thanksgiving turkey. By following these tips, you can be sure to have a successful cookout.

spatchcocking a turkey is a great way to cook a juicy, flavorful bird. By removing the backbone and flattening the breast, you allow the heat to penetrate more evenly, resulting in a faster cook time and a more evenly cooked turkey. Be sure to cook your turkey to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit, and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before carving. With a little planning and preparation, you can easily spatchcock a turkey and impress your guests with a delicious and perfectly cooked meal.

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Kelsey Hammons
Kelsey Hammons
I was born and raised in the fabulous state of Maryland but recently decided to pack up my stuff and move to the Midwest city they call Chicago.

I hope to capture all of my life’s adventures of living in the windy city. AKA the food I cook, my journey to the Chicago Marathon, the books I read and the trashy TV shows I watch. I’m a health-nut, book-worm and exercise fiend.

Join me, Kelsey, on this exciting journey as I embrace the challenges and joys of my new life in Chicago. From mastering the art of healthy cooking to hitting the pavement for marathon training, my blog is a window into my world of self-discovery and fun.

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