The Best Homemade Smoked Turkey Recipe

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What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This homemade smoked turkey recipe is a game-changer for holiday meals, bringing juicy flavor and crispy skin that everyone will rave about.

Perfectly tender meat that stays moist, thanks to a simple brine and slow smoking process.
Rich, smoky flavor with a golden-brown crust, making it the star of any dinner table.
Easy to customize with your favorite herbs and spices, so you can make it your own.

Recipe

Smoked turkey is a flavorful and juicy alternative to traditional roasted turkey, perfect for holidays or special occasions. The slow smoking process infuses the meat with a rich, smoky aroma while keeping it tender and moist.

Ingredients:

1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
1/4 cup kosher salt
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tbsp black pepper
1 tbsp garlic powder
1 tbsp onion powder
1 tbsp paprika
2 tsp dried thyme
2 tsp dried rosemary
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 cups wood chips (hickory, apple, or cherry)

Instructions:

Rinse the turkey inside and out, then pat dry with paper towels.
In a bowl, mix salt, brown sugar, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, and rosemary to create a dry rub.
Rub the mixture evenly over the turkey, including under the skin and inside the cavity.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 12 hours or overnight.
Preheat the smoker to 225°F (107°C) and add soaked wood chips.
Place the turkey on the smoker rack, breast-side up.
Smoke for about 30 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
Baste with melted butter every hour for extra moisture.
Remove from the smoker, tent with foil, and rest for 20 minutes before carving.

Notes:

Brining the turkey beforehand enhances juiciness.
Use a meat thermometer to confirm proper doneness.
Letting the turkey rest guarantees juices redistribute.

Equipment:

Smoker
Meat thermometer
Basting brush
Aluminum foil

Time:

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 6-7 hours

Cuisine: American

Serving: 8-10 people

Nutrition

This homemade smoked turkey is a flavorful and nutritious dish. Below is the nutritional information per serving.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	250 kcal
Protein	35 g
Total Fat	10 g
Saturated Fat	3 g
Cholesterol	90 mg
Sodium	400 mg
Total Carbohydrate	0 g
Dietary Fiber	0 g
Sugars	0 g
Vitamin D	0 mcg
Calcium	20 mg
Iron	1.5 mg
Potassium	300 mg

What To Serve With It

I love pairing my smoked turkey with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes and roasted veggies, but don’t forget a tangy cranberry sauce to balance the smoky flavor. A crisp white wine or a cold cider works wonders with the rich meat, though sweet tea’s always a crowd-pleaser too. Trust me, these combos make the meal feel extra special without stealing the turkey’s spotlight.

Side Dishes

When you’ve got a juicy smoked turkey as the star of your meal, you’ll want sides that complement its rich flavor without stealing the spotlight. I love pairing it with seasonal vegetables like roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts—they’re simple but add a fresh, earthy balance. Roasted potatoes are another must for me; crispy on the outside, tender inside, they’re the perfect comfort food to round out the plate. A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can also brighten things up. These sides keep the meal hearty yet balanced, letting that smoky turkey shine.

Beverage Pairings

Since a smoked turkey brings such deep, smoky flavors to the table, it’s fun to pick drinks that either match its richness or offer an invigorating contrast. When it comes to wine choices, I love pairing it with a bold red like Zinfandel or Pinot Noir—their fruity notes balance the smokiness perfectly. For beer options, a malty amber ale or a crisp lager works wonders, cutting through the richness without overpowering it. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a smoky whiskey cocktail for an extra layer of flavor. Don’t forget a pitcher of iced tea or lemonade for a cooling non-alcoholic option!