How Long to Smoke a 13-Pound Turkey on a Pellet Smoker?

By Avi Green January 03, 2025

For kitchen professionals striving for exquisite flavor and perfection, understanding how long to smoke a 13-pound turkey on a pellet smoker is crucial. This cooking method is a harmonious blend of time, temperature, wood selection, and technique. Whether you're preparing a holiday masterpiece or updating your culinary repertoire, achieving that golden, smoky turkey depends on mastering these steps.

A pellet smoker provides consistency, flavor, and control, making it a favorite tool for smoking. A 13-pound turkey, when smoked right, becomes a tender, mouthwatering centerpiece. But how much time exactly does it take? Let's dive into the ultimate guide to help you prepare the best-smoked turkey using a pellet smoker.

Preparing the Turkey for Smoking

Smoking starts long before the wood chips hit the heat. Preparing your turkey properly is essential for the best result. Heres what to do:

Choose Quality Turkey

Select a fresh or properly thawed turkey. A 13-pound turkey is ideal for even smoking and ensures you have enough portions for gatherings.

The Importance of a Brine

Consider brining your turkey overnight to lock in moisture and enhance flavor. A simple brine mix includes water, salt, sugar, and preferred spices or herbs. Brining ensures that the turkey stays juicy during the smoking process.

Pat Dry and Season Generously

Pat your turkey dry after brining, then season the bird liberally. Common seasonings include a mix of garlic powder, black pepper, paprika, and herb rubs. For smoking, avoid overloading with sugar-based rubs as they tend to burn.

Setting Up Your Pellet Smoker

The efficiency of the pellet smoker lies in its ease of use and ability to maintain a steady temperature throughout the process. If you're new to using pellet smokers, you may want to read something like how to use a pellet smoker for initial setup assistance. Below are key aspects of setup:

Choose the Right Wood Pellets

Hickory, apple, and cherry wood are excellent choices for smoking turkey. They infuse the meat with the perfect balance of smokiness without overpowering the natural flavors.

Preheat the Smoker

Set your pellet smoker to a temperature range of 225F to 250F, the standard for slow smoking. Allow it to preheat for at least 15 minutes before placing the turkey to ensure proper heating.

Maintain a Water Pan

Add a water pan to the smoker to introduce moisture during cooking, keeping your turkey tender and juicy. Learn why its important by referencing guides like how to use a water pan.

Smoking the 13-Pound Turkey

Finally, the moment arrives to smoke your turkey. The most critical questions are timing and temperature. Here's what you need to know:

Smoke Time and Internal Temperature

For a 13-pound turkey, plan for approximately 30-40 minutes per pound at 225F. So, it will take roughly 6.5 to 9 hours. Always ensure the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165F in the thickest part of the breast and 175F in the thigh. Using a meat thermometer allows for precise cooking.

Mid-Smoke Adjustments

Rotate the turkey midway for even cooking. Add wood pellets and check the water pan level as needed during the process. Consider spritzing the turkey with apple juice or broth every 1-2 hours to deepen the flavor.

When Is the Turkey Done?

A perfectly cooked turkey showcases a golden brown, slightly crispy skin. Use a meat thermometer like experienced chefs to know if it's ready. This practice helps maintain food safety and prevents under or overcooking.