For many, the holiday season is synonymous with indulging in delicious meals with loved ones. One dish that often takes center stage during these gatherings is the classic holiday smoked turkey. While the traditional oven-roasted turkey is a tried and true method, smoking the turkey adds a unique and mouth-watering flavor. If you're looking to impress your guests this holiday season, follow this simple smoked turkey recipe for a perfectly juicy and flavorful main course.
Main Ingredients: Brine, Turkey, Kosher Salt, Coarsely Ground Black Pepper
If you're tired of the same old roasted turkey for the holidays, why not switch things up with a flavorful smoked turkey? Smoking a turkey gives it a unique and delicious taste that will have your guests coming back for seconds.
For a simple yet delicious smoked turkey recipe, start by brining the turkey in a mixture of water, salt, brown sugar, and spices for 24 hours. Then, smoke it over hickory wood chips for a few hours until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The result is a moist and flavorful turkey that will be the star of your holiday table.
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Honey Smoked Turkey
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Chopped Fresh Sage, Ground Black Pepper, Celery
If you have a sweet tooth, you'll love this honey smoked turkey recipe. The key to this recipe is the honey glaze that's brushed on the turkey during the smoking process. It adds a delicious sweet and sticky flavor that pairs perfectly with the smokiness of the turkey.
To make this recipe, brine the turkey in a mixture of water, salt, brown sugar, and fresh herbs. Then, smoke the turkey over applewood chips for a few hours before brushing on the honey glaze. Once the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, it's ready to be carved and served.
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Holiday Apple Wood Smoked Turkey for Man Food Mondays
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Apple Cider, Water, Rosemary Leaves, Garlic
This holiday season, impress your family and friends with a delicious apple wood smoked turkey. This recipe is perfect for Man Food Mondays, where you can show off your grilling skills and treat your loved ones to a tasty meal.
To make this recipe, start by brining the turkey in a mixture of water, salt, brown sugar, and spices. Then, smoke the turkey over apple wood chips until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The result is a juicy and flavorful turkey that will be the talk of the holiday dinner table.
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Smoked Turkey Brine
Main Ingredients: Water, Kosher Salt, Large White Onion, Garlic
The key to a delicious smoked turkey is a good brine. Brining the turkey helps to infuse it with flavor and keep it moist during the smoking process. This simple brine recipe is a must-try for any smoked turkey.
To make the brine, combine water, salt, brown sugar, fresh herbs, and spices in a large pot. Bring it to a boil, then let it cool before adding the turkey. Let the turkey brine for at least 24 hours before smoking it for a delicious and juicy result.
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The Best Smoked Turkey
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Coarse Kosher Salt, Brown Sugar, Black Pepper
If you're looking for the best smoked turkey recipe, look no further. This recipe has everything you could want in a smoked turkey – a flavorful brine, a delicious rub, and a smoky cooking method that results in a juicy and flavorful turkey.
To make this recipe, start by brining the turkey in a mixture of water, salt, brown sugar, and spices. Then, apply a dry rub to the turkey before smoking it over hickory wood chips. The result is a perfectly cooked and delicious smoked turkey that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
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Traeger Smoked Turkey
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Olive Oil, Garlic, Rosemary, Poultry Seasoning
If you have a Traeger grill, you're in luck – it's the perfect tool for smoking a turkey. The Traeger grill uses wood pellets to create a consistent and smoky heat that's perfect for smoking meats.
To make a Traeger smoked turkey, start by brining the turkey in a mixture of water, salt, brown sugar, and fresh herbs. Then, smoke the turkey over applewood pellets until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The result is a perfectly cooked and delicious turkey with a subtle smoky flavor.
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Spatchcock Smoked Turkey
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Kosher Salt, Black Pepper, Unsalted Butter
Spatchcocking a turkey means removing the backbone and flattening it out before cooking. This technique allows the turkey to cook more evenly and also reduces the cooking time. It's the perfect method for smoking a turkey.
To prepare a spatchcock smoked turkey, start by removing the backbone of the turkey and flattening it out. Then, brine the turkey in a mixture of water, salt, brown sugar, and fresh herbs before smoking it over hickory wood chips. The result is a perfectly cooked and flavorful turkey that will be a hit at any gathering.
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Whole Smoked Turkey
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Small Onion, Apple, Bay Leaf, Garlic Clove
If you're serving a large crowd, a whole smoked turkey is the way to go. It's a show-stopping centerpiece that's full of flavor and sure to impress your guests.
To prepare a whole smoked turkey, start by brining the turkey in a mixture of water, salt, brown sugar, and spices. Then, smoke the turkey over a mix of hickory and applewood chips until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The result is a beautiful and delicious turkey that's perfect for any special occasion.
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Disneyland Smoked Turkey Legs
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Bbq Rub, Warm Water, Meat Tenderizer, Liquid
Disneyland is known for its delicious turkey legs that are smoked to perfection. But you don't have to go to the amusement park to enjoy this tasty treat – you can make them at home with this simple recipe.
To make Disneyland-style smoked turkey legs, start by brining the turkey legs in a mixture of water, salt, brown sugar, and fresh herbs. Then, smoke the legs over hickory wood chips until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. The result is a smoky and flavorful turkey leg that will bring a taste of Disney to your own kitchen.
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Pellet Smoked Turkey
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Water, Kosher Salt
A pellet smoker is a great tool for smoking meats, and it also works perfectly for smoking a turkey. The pellets provide a consistent and smoky heat that's perfect for cooking a turkey to perfection.
To make a pellet smoked turkey, start by brining the turkey in a mixture of water, salt, brown sugar, and spices. Then, smoke the turkey over a mix of hickory and applewood pellets until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The result is a juicy and flavorful turkey that's perfect for any occasion.
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Best Smoked Turkey
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Coarse Sea Salt, Garlic Powder, Cayenne
With so many smoked turkey recipes out there, it can be hard to determine which one is the best. But this recipe for the best smoked turkey is sure to impress even the pickiest of eaters.
To make this recipe, start by brining the turkey in a mixture of water, salt, brown sugar, and fresh herbs. Then, smoke the turkey over a mix of hickory and applewood chips until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The result is a perfectly cooked and flavorful turkey that will have everyone asking for seconds.
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Applewood Smoked Turkey for Traeger
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Butter, Beer, Teriyaki Sauce, Apple, Pork
This applewood smoked turkey recipe is perfect for those with a Traeger grill. The applewood pellets add a sweet and smoky flavor to the turkey that pairs perfectly with the brine and rub.
To make this recipe, start by brining the turkey in a mixture of water, salt, brown sugar, and spices. Then, smoke the turkey over applewood pellets until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The result is a juicy and flavorful turkey that's perfect for any occasion.
Thanksgiving is the perfect time to try out a delicious smoked turkey recipe. This Thanksgiving smoked turkey is sure to be a hit with all of your dinner guests.
To make this recipe, start by brining the turkey in a mixture of water, salt, brown sugar, and fresh herbs. Then, smoke the turkey over a mix of hickory and applewood chips until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The result is a perfectly cooked and flavorful turkey that will be the star of your Thanksgiving feast.
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Smoked Turkey Breasts
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Cherry, Hot Water, Cold Water, Sea Salt, Brown
If you prefer white meat, you can still enjoy a delicious smoked turkey with this recipe for smoked turkey breasts. The breasts are brined and smoked to perfection, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish.
To make this recipe, start by brining the turkey breasts in a mixture of water, salt, brown sugar, and spices. Then, smoke the breasts over hickory wood chips until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. The result is a delicious and juicy turkey dish that's perfect for a smaller gathering.
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Grill Smoked Turkey
Main Ingredients: Black Pepper, Salt, Garlic, Onion Powder, Thyme
If you don't have a smoker, you can still enjoy a delicious smoked turkey by using your grill. This recipe for grill smoked turkey is easy and produces a flavorful and juicy turkey.
To make this recipe, start by brining the turkey in a mixture of water, salt, brown sugar, and fresh herbs. Then, smoke the turkey on your grill using indirect heat until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The result is a delicious and smoky turkey that's perfect for any occasion.
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Cajun Smoked Turkey
Main Ingredients: Cold Water, Apple Cider, Kosher Salt, Turbinado Sugar
If you're a fan of Cajun flavors, you'll love this recipe for Cajun smoked turkey. The turkey is brined in a Cajun-spiced mixture and then smoked to perfection, resulting in a flavorful and slightly spicy dish.
To make this recipe, start by brining the turkey in a mixture of water, salt, brown sugar, and Cajun seasoning. Then, smoke the turkey over hickory wood chips until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The result is a delicious and unique smoked turkey that will have your taste buds dancing.
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Hickory Smoked Turkey with Lemon and Herbs
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Chopped Fresh Rosemary, Chopped Fresh Oregano
This hickory smoked turkey is infused with the flavors of lemon and herbs, giving it a refreshing and delicious taste. It's the perfect recipe for those who want a twist on the traditional smoked turkey.
To make this recipe, start by brining the turkey in a mixture of water, salt, brown sugar, and fresh herbs. Then, smoke the turkey over hickory wood chips and add slices of lemon and more herbs to the smoke for added flavor. The result is a perfectly cooked and flavorful turkey that will be a hit with your family and friends.
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Oven-Baked Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey
Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Large Onion, Garlic, Low Sodium
Collard greens are a classic side dish for a southern-style meal, and this recipe takes them to the next level by adding in some smoky flavor. The addition of smoked turkey adds a delicious depth of flavor to these tender collard greens.
To make this recipe, start by cooking smoked turkey in a pot until it's tender. Then, add in collard greens, chicken broth, and fresh herbs and cook until the greens are tender. The result is a flavorful and comforting side dish that pairs perfectly with any smoked turkey recipe.
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Apple Brined And Hickory Smoked Turkey
Main Ingredients: Apple Juice, Brown Sugar, Kosher Salt, Oranges, Fresh
This recipe takes the classic apple brined turkey to the next level by also smoking it over hickory wood chips. The result is a perfectly cooked and flavorful turkey with a subtle hint of apple and a delicious smoky flavor.
To make this recipe, start by brining the turkey in a mixture of water, salt, brown sugar, and fresh herbs. Then, smoke it over hickory wood chips until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The result is a delicious and unique smoked turkey that's perfect for any occasion.
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Texas Style Smoked Turkey
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Kosher Salt, Freshly
For a taste of Texas, try out this recipe for Texas style smoked turkey. The turkey is rubbed with a flavorful blend of spices and smoked over mesquite wood chips for a truly delicious result.
To make this recipe, start by rubbing the turkey with a mixture of spices, including chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder. Then, smoke the turkey over mesquite wood chips until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The result is a smoky and spicy turkey that's perfect for any Tex-Mex inspired meal.
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Smoked Turkey
Main Ingredients: Brine, Turkey, Kosher Salt, Coarsely Ground Black Pepper
Smoked turkey is a delicious and flavorful way to enjoy this classic holiday dish. The smoky flavor adds a unique twist to the traditional turkey, making it a favorite among many. Here are 20 of the best smoked turkey recipes that will surely impress your family and friends this holiday season.
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Honey Smoked Turkey
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Chopped Fresh Sage, Ground Black Pepper, Celery
If you have a sweet tooth, this honey smoked turkey recipe is for you! The combination of honey and smoke creates a mouthwatering glaze that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, it's super easy to make! Simply brush the turkey with a honey and spice mixture before smoking it to perfection. The end result is a juicy and flavorful turkey that will be the star of your holiday table.
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Holiday Apple Wood Smoked Turkey for Man Food Mondays
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Apple Cider, Water, Rosemary Leaves, Garlic
This smoked turkey recipe is perfect for those who want to impress their guests with a gourmet holiday dish. The apple wood smoke adds a subtle yet delicious flavor to the turkey, making it a perfect pairing with your favorite holiday sides. The recipe also includes instructions for brining the turkey beforehand, ensuring that your turkey is tender and juicy.
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Smoked Turkey Brine
Main Ingredients: Water, Kosher Salt, Large White Onion, Garlic
For a truly moist and flavorful turkey, brining is a must. This smoked turkey brine recipe is a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, guaranteeing a perfectly seasoned turkey every time. The brine is made with a combination of herbs, spices, and brown sugar, and is sure to impress your guests with its delicious results.
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The Best Smoked Turkey
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Coarse Kosher Salt, Brown Sugar, Black Pepper
If you're looking for a no-fuss, no-frills smoked turkey recipe, this is it. With only a few simple ingredients, this recipe lets the smoky flavor of the turkey shine through. The turkey is seasoned with a basic rub and then slowly smoked until tender and juicy. It's a foolproof recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds.
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Traeger Smoked Turkey
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Olive Oil, Garlic, Rosemary, Poultry Seasoning
If you have a Traeger grill, this smoked turkey recipe is a must-try. The Traeger adds a unique flavor to the turkey, making it stand out from traditional smoked turkeys. The turkey is brined in a citrus and herb mixture before being smoked to perfection. The result is a tender and flavorful turkey that will have your guests raving.
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Spatchcock Smoked Turkey
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Kosher Salt, Black Pepper, Unsalted Butter
Spatchcocking, or butterflying, the turkey before smoking it allows for more even cooking and shorter cooking time. This smoked turkey recipe combines spatchcocking with a delicious dry rub, creating a perfectly cooked and seasoned turkey that is sure to impress. The recipe also includes instructions for making a delicious gravy using the drippings from the smoked turkey.
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Whole Smoked Turkey
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Small Onion, Apple, Bay Leaf, Garlic Clove
If you prefer to keep your turkey whole, this recipe is for you. The turkey is brined in a flavorful mixture before being smoked over wood chips, creating a tender and juicy turkey with a delicious smoky flavor. The recipe also includes instructions for making a delicious cranberry and orange glaze to add even more flavor to the turkey.
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Disneyland Smoked Turkey Legs
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Bbq Rub, Warm Water, Meat Tenderizer, Liquid
For a taste of the happiest place on earth, try this recipe for Disneyland-style smoked turkey legs. These giant turkey legs are a favorite among theme park goers and can now be made at home. The recipe includes instructions for brining and smoking the turkey legs to perfection, ensuring that they are tender and flavorful.
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Pellet Smoked Turkey
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Water, Kosher Salt
If you have a pellet smoker, this smoked turkey recipe is a must-try. The pellet smoker adds a unique and delicious flavor to the turkey, giving it a deep and smoky taste. The recipe also includes instructions for brining the turkey beforehand, ensuring that it stays moist and juicy throughout the smoking process.
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Best Smoked Turkey
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Coarse Sea Salt, Garlic Powder, Cayenne
This recipe for the best smoked turkey truly lives up to its name. The turkey is brined in a flavorful mixture before being smoked over a combination of hickory and apple wood chips, creating a delicious and perfectly cooked turkey. The recipe also includes instructions for making a delicious herb butter to add even more flavor to the turkey.
Thanksgiving wouldn't be complete without a delicious smoked turkey as the centerpiece of the meal. This recipe for Thanksgiving smoked turkey is a crowd-pleaser, combining traditional flavors with a smoky twist. The turkey is brined and then smoked over a combination of hickory and cherry wood chips, creating a flavorful and tender turkey that is sure to impress.
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Applewood Smoked Turkey for Traeger
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Butter, Beer, Teriyaki Sauce, Apple, Pork
This smoked turkey recipe is perfect for Traeger owners. The applewood smoke adds a delicious and unique flavor to the turkey, making it a standout dish at any holiday gathering. The recipe also includes instructions for making a tasty herb and garlic butter to add even more flavor to the turkey.
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Smoked Turkey Breasts
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Cherry, Hot Water, Cold Water, Sea Salt, Brown
If you prefer white meat, this recipe for smoked turkey breasts is for you. The turkey breasts are brined in a flavorful mixture before being smoked over a combination of hickory and apple wood chips, creating a juicy and flavorful turkey that is perfect for smaller gatherings. The recipe also includes instructions for making a delicious cranberry sauce to serve alongside the turkey.
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Grill Smoked Turkey
Main Ingredients: Black Pepper, Salt, Garlic, Onion Powder, Thyme
If you don't have a smoker, you can still enjoy a delicious smoked turkey by using your grill. This recipe for grill smoked turkey is perfect for those who want to try something different this holiday season. The turkey is brined and then cooked over indirect heat, creating a smoky and delicious flavor. The recipe also includes instructions for making a tasty gravy using the drippings from the turkey.
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Cajun Smoked Turkey
Main Ingredients: Cold Water, Apple Cider, Kosher Salt, Turbinado Sugar
If you're a fan of spicy food, this recipe for Cajun smoked turkey is a must-try. The turkey is rubbed with a delicious Cajun seasoning and then smoked over a combination of hickory and pecan wood chips, creating a flavorful and slightly spicy turkey that is sure to be a hit. The recipe also includes instructions for making a tasty Cajun gravy to serve alongside the turkey.
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Hickory Smoked Turkey with Lemon and Herbs
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Chopped Fresh Rosemary, Chopped Fresh Oregano
This recipe for hickory smoked turkey with lemon and herbs is perfect for those who want a lighter and fresher flavor in their turkey. The turkey is rubbed with a delicious mixture of herbs and lemon zest before being smoked over hickory wood chips, creating a flavorful and tender turkey that is perfect for any occasion. The recipe also includes instructions for making a tasty lemon herb butter to serve alongside the turkey.
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Oven-Baked Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey
Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Large Onion, Garlic, Low Sodium
If you're looking for a tasty side dish to accompany your smoked turkey, look no further. These oven-baked collard greens with smoked turkey are a delicious addition to any holiday meal. The smoked turkey adds a unique and delicious flavor to the dish, making it a favorite among many. The recipe also includes instructions for making a tasty cornbread topping for the collard greens.
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Apple Brined And Hickory Smoked Turkey
Main Ingredients: Apple Juice, Brown Sugar, Kosher Salt, Oranges, Fresh
This smoked turkey recipe is perfect for those who want a flavorful and juicy turkey. The turkey is brined in a delicious apple and spice mixture before being smoked over hickory wood chips, creating a tender and flavorful turkey that is sure to impress. The recipe also includes instructions for making a tasty apple cider glaze for the turkey.
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Texas Style Smoked Turkey
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Kosher Salt, Freshly
This Texas-style smoked turkey recipe is perfect for those who want a little heat in their turkey. The turkey is rubbed with a spicy dry rub before being smoked over a combination of hickory and mesquite wood chips, creating a flavorful and slightly spicy turkey that is sure to be a hit. The recipe also includes instructions for making a tasty BBQ sauce to serve alongside the turkey.
Preparing the Turkey
Before getting started on the smoking process, it's important to properly prepare the turkey. Begin by thawing a 12-15 pound turkey in the refrigerator for 24-48 hours. This slow thawing process ensures that the turkey stays fresh and prevents any potential bacteria growth. Once thawed, remove the giblets and neck from the cavity and rinse the turkey inside and out with cold water. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels.
Brining the Turkey
To ensure a juicy and flavorful turkey, brining is a crucial step. In a large pot or brining bag, mix together 1 cup of kosher salt, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, and 1 gallon of water. You can also add in herbs and spices of your choice, such as rosemary, thyme, and garlic, for added flavor. Place the turkey in the brine and refrigerate for 12-24 hours. The salt in the brine helps to break down the muscle fibers in the turkey, allowing for more moisture to be retained during the smoking process.
Smoking the Turkey
Once the turkey has finished brining, it's time to get it on the smoker. Preheat your smoker to 225 degrees Fahrenheit and add in your choice of hardwood chips, such as hickory, apple, or cherry. For added moisture, place a drip pan filled with water underneath the turkey. Place the turkey on the smoker, with the breast side facing up. Smoke the turkey for 6-7 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit in the thickest part of the thigh.
Finishing Touches
Once the turkey is fully cooked, carefully remove it from the smoker and let it rest for 20-30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a moist and flavorful turkey. Serve with your favorite holiday side dishes and watch as your guests rave about your delicious smoked turkey.
In conclusion, this holiday smoked turkey recipe is a sure-fire way to impress your guests and add a unique twist to your holiday feast. With a little bit of preparation and patience, you'll have a perfectly smoked turkey that will have everyone coming back for seconds. So, fire up that smoker and get ready to enjoy a mouth-watering and memorable holiday meal.