Planning for Successful Holiday Grilling and Smoking
Preparing the ultimate Thanksgiving turkey starts with having the right tools and ingredients. Whether you're planning to spatchcock, rotisserie, or smoke your bird low and slow, a little preparation goes a long way. Here are a few tips to help you master your holiday meal:
- Plan Ahead: The key to any successful event is preparation. Start by finalizing your grocery list early and ensuring your turkey is properly thawed. Prep your brine, marinades, and side dishes in advance so you can enjoy the day stress-free.
- Choose the Right Turkey Size: Smaller birds (12–14 pounds) cook more evenly and are easier to handle. Feeding a larger crowd? Try preparing two smaller turkeys instead of one oversized bird
- Prepare Your Grill: If your smoker hasn't been used in a while, season it before cooking. Make sure you have enough wood chunks, charcoal, or pellets to last the entire cook — no one wants to run out of fuel mid-smoke.
- Dry the Skin: After brining or rinsing, pat the skin completely dry before seasoning. This simple step is the secret to that perfect golden-brown, crispy finish.
- Rest the Turkey: Once your turkey hits the perfect temperature, let it rest for at least 15–20 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender, flavorful slices every time.
Choosing the Right Masterbuilt Products
Your holiday meal deserves the best equipment. For effortless, consistent results, the Masterbuilt Gravity Series® is perfect for smoking, roasting, and searing with precision temperature control. If convenience is key, the Masterbuilt XL Fryer makes frying holiday favorites simple and stress-free, delivering golden, crispy results every time.
Looking to upgrade your setup? Add on the Masterbuilt Rotisserie Kit for evenly roasted meats, or use the Digital Charcoal Smoker for classic smoked flavor with modern control. Be sure to have plenty of Masterbuilt Lump Charcoal on hand for your holiday cook. Its consistent burn and rich flavor make it ideal for everything from smoked turkey to grilled sides.
Looking for more Thanksgiving recipe videos? Check out our playlist on YouTube!
Our Favorite Holiday Recipes
Make your holiday cooking easier and more flavorful with tried-and-true grilling and smoking techniques. These recipes are perfect for creating a festive, stress-free meal your family and friends will enjoy.
