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Pit Boss Smoker Cookbook for Beginners · Main CourseCajun & Southern

Smoked Cajun-Spiced Whole Turkey

By Robert P. Anderson · US & Metric Measurements · Ready in 4 hr 20 min

★★★★★4.8
·(50 home cook ratings)·✓ Tested in US Kitchens

Smoked Cajun-Spiced Whole Turkey layers whole turkey, olive oil, cajun seasoning with clean hardwood smoke at 240°F on your Pit Boss pellet grill. Steady indirect heat builds a flavorful outer bark while keeping the interior juicy and tender. Plan on roughly 4.3 hours from prep to pull so the meat has time to take on smoke and rest before slicing.

Prep: 20 min
Cook: 4 hr
Total: 4 hr 20 min
Servings: 6
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Ingredients (8)

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Nutrition FactsPer Serving
Calories
484 kcal
Total Fat
22g
Protein
46g
Carbs
10g
Sodium: 724mgFiber: 3g
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Step-by-Step Instructions

1
Apply a mixture of seasonings and olive oil to the turkey. Keep in the fridge all night.
2
Set the smoker's temperature to 240°F (115°C).
3
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) in the breast and 175°F (79°C) in the thigh after 6 to 8 hours of smoking.
4
Before carving, let it rest for 20 to 30 minutes.

💡 Chef Tips for Best Results

  • ✓Preheat your Pit Boss with the lid closed for 15–20 minutes until thin blue smoke appears before putting Smoked Cajun-Spiced Whole Turkey on the grates.
  • ✓Cook to internal temperature rather than the clock alone (target smoker setting 240°F), using a calibrated leave-in meat probe in the thickest part.
  • ✓Rest cooked meats loosely tented in butcher paper or foil for 10–20 minutes so the juices redistribute before carving.

🧊 Storage, Freezing & Safe Reheating

Cool leftovers within 2 hours and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently until steaming hot (165°F internal temperature).

Frequently Asked Questions

What wood pellets work best for Smoked Cajun-Spiced Whole Turkey on a Pit Boss?

A competition blend (maple, hickory, and cherry) is a reliable all-rounder; use fruitwoods like apple or cherry for poultry, pork, and fish, or stronger hickory and oak for beef and rich game-day dishes.

How do I know when Smoked Cajun-Spiced Whole Turkey is done smoking?

Always verify with an instant-read digital thermometer in the thickest part of the food: USDA safe minimums are 165°F for poultry, 145°F with a 3-minute rest for whole cuts of pork or beef, and 195–203°F for probe-tender brisket or pulled pork.

📖 More Recipes from Pit Boss Smoker Cookbook for Beginners

Adapted from Pit Boss Smoker Cookbook for Beginners by Robert P. Anderson. Explore all 160 recipes in this collection or look up the print & Kindle edition on Amazon.

RP

Recipe by Robert P. Anderson

Adapted from Pit Boss Smoker Cookbook for Beginners and edited for American kitchens by the RecipeVault Pro editorial team — US & metric measurements, USDA-safe doneness temperatures, and practical tips. Our editorial policy

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