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Grilled Herb-Butter Turkey Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.6 from 76 reviews
  • Author: Paula
  • Prep Time: 20 mins
  • Cook Time: 3 hrs 10 mins
  • Total Time: 3 hrs 30 mins
  • Yield: 8 - 10 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This grilled turkey recipe offers a flavorful and juicy whole turkey infused with fresh herbs, garlic, and lemon. Perfect for outdoor cooking, the method combines direct grilling to achieve char marks with slow roasting on the grill for tender, moist results. Ideal for festive gatherings or a special family meal, this recipe yields 8 to 10 servings bursting with aromatic herb butter and smoky grilled notes.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 (12-lb.) whole turkey
  • Extra-virgin olive oil, for rubbing
  • Kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 cups low-sodium turkey stock

Herb Butter

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
  • 10 cloves garlic, grated or minced
  • Zest and juice of 1 medium lemon
  • 1 Tbsp. chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 Tbsp. chopped fresh rosemary
  • 1 Tbsp. chopped fresh sage
  • 1 Tbsp. chopped fresh thyme

Garnish (Optional)

  • Sprigs of thyme
  • Grilled lemon halves

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Season: Preheat your grill to 400°F. Rub the outside of the whole turkey with extra-virgin olive oil and season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper on all sides to enhance flavor and crisp the skin.
  2. Prepare Herb Butter: In a small pot over medium-high heat, melt the unsalted butter. Stir in the grated garlic, lemon zest and juice, and chopped fresh herbs including parsley, rosemary, sage, and thyme. Remove from heat and set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
  3. Initial Grilling: Place the turkey breast side down directly on the grill grates. Grill for 5 to 10 minutes until noticeable char marks appear. Using large tongs, carefully turn the turkey to the other side, grilling for another 5 to 10 minutes to develop nice grill marks.
  4. Transfer and Add Stock: Move the turkey carefully into a large aluminum roasting pan. Pour in 2 cups of low-sodium turkey stock around the bird to keep it moist during grilling. Brush the turkey all over with the prepared herb butter to add richness and flavor.
  5. Slow Grill with Basting: Place the roasting pan on the grill and close the lid. Continue grilling the turkey for about 2 hours and 30 minutes, basting every 30 minutes with the reserved herb butter. Grill until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part registers 165°F, ensuring the turkey is fully cooked but still juicy.
  6. Rest and Serve: Let the turkey rest for 30 minutes before carving to allow juices to redistribute. Arrange the slices on a platter topped with fresh thyme sprigs and grilled lemon halves if desired, serving warm and flavorful.

Notes

  • Use a digital instant-read thermometer to accurately check doneness and avoid overcooking.
  • Rotating the turkey during grilling promotes even browning and cooking.
  • Letting the turkey rest is crucial for moist, tender meat.
  • Grilling lemon halves adds a nice smoky citrus garnish that complements the herb flavors.
  • This recipe works best on a gas or charcoal grill with a lid to maintain consistent temperature.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (about 200g)
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 2g
  • Fiber: 0.5g
  • Protein: 40g
  • Cholesterol: 140mg

Find it online: https://piesbypaula.com/grilled-herb-butter-turkey-recipe/