Grilling a turkey, especially a 15-pound bird, requires precision and patience. For barbecue enthusiasts, understanding how long to cook a 15-pound turkey on a gas grill is essential to achieving that perfect balance of juicy meat and crispy skin.

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Preparing Your Grill

Before diving into the specifics of cooking a 15-pound turkey on a gas grill, it's important to make sure your grill is clean and ready for the task. A clean grill ensures even heat distribution and prevents unwanted flavors.

Indirect Cooking Method

When grilling a large bird like a turkey, using the indirect cooking method is crucial. This means you'll be placing the turkey away from the direct heat source, allowing it to cook evenly without getting charred on the outside.

Learn more about how to use a gas grill effectively.

Setting Up Your Gas Grill

To achieve the perfect cook, you need to set your gas grill to a consistent temperature.

Temperature Settings

For a 15-pound turkey, set the grill to around 325 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature allows the turkey to cook slowly, ensuring the inside is thoroughly done without burning the skin.

Crafting the perfect barbecue isn't just about temperature. Check out our guides on cooking burgers and lobster tails on a gas grill.

Preparing the Turkey

Brining

Brining your turkey is one of the best ways to enhance its flavor and moisture. You can create a simple brine with water, salt, and sugar, or add aromatics like rosemary and thyme for added depth.

Seasoning

After brining, pat the turkey dry and coat it with your favorite seasonings. Be generous with your seasoning, ensuring you get under the skin for maximum flavor.

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Grilling Time and Technique

Estimated Cooking Time

The general rule for grilling a turkey is about 12-15 minutes per pound at 325 degrees Fahrenheit. So for a 15-pound turkey, youre looking at approximately 3 to 3.5 hours of cooking time.

Tips for Steady Cooking

Keep the lid closed as much as possible to maintain a consistent cooking temperature. Occasionally check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. The turkey is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit in the thickest part of the breast and thigh.

For more grilling tips, see our guide on cooking ribs on a gas grill.

FAQs

Do I need a drip pan?

Yes, a drip pan will catch the turkeys drippings, preventing flare-ups and making it easy to prepare gravy.

Can I stuff the turkey?

Its better to cook stuffing separately as it may not reach a safe temperature while the turkey cooks.

Should I rotate the turkey?

Rotating the turkey can help it cook evenly, especially if your grill has hot spots.

For more gas grilling tips and techniques, you might find this article from Bon Appetit helpful.

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