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Garlic & Herb Smoked Turkey

Recipe by Cal Reynolds on InstagramAdded 11 November 2026.

30 minutes to prep, 3 hours to cook. A juicy, smoky turkey infused with a fragrant garlic‑herb butter that keeps the meat tender and flavorful. The dry‑brine and Traeger Fin & Feather Rub add a perfect balance of salt and spice, making it an ideal centerpiece for Thanksgiving or any celebration.

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Method

  1. Spatchcock the turkey, then pat it dry with paper towels. Lightly season with salt and place it on a wire rack in the refrigerator to dry brine uncovered overnight.

  2. Prepare the garlic & herb compound butter by mixing softened butter with minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped chives, and SPG rub until well combined.

  3. Carefully separate the skin from the turkey meat and spread the compound butter underneath, distributing it evenly and adding extra butter around the breasts.

  4. Coat the outside of the turkey with extra virgin olive oil and season generously on all sides with Traeger Fin & Feather Rub.

  5. Preheat the Traeger grill to 325°F. Place the turkey on the grill and smoke until the thickest part of the breast reaches an internal temperature of 160°F, checking the thighs as well.

  6. Remove the turkey from the grill and let it rest for about 30 minutes before carving.

  7. Pour the drippings from the tray over the sliced turkey and serve.

Tips while you cook

Dry‑brine overnight
Place the spatchcocked turkey on a rack uncovered in the refrigerator to dry brine overnight.
Butter under the skin
Spread the garlic‑herb compound butter under the skin before coating the exterior with oil and rub.
Rest before carving
Allow the smoked turkey to rest about 30 minutes before carving to retain juices.

Notes from ReelsMeals, based on this recipe's ingredients, times and method. They are not the creator's instructions.

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Cal Reynolds made this.

The recipe comes from Cal Reynolds’s Instagram reel. ReelsMeals wrote it down from the caption and the voiceover. Check the original if something looks off, and for anything about allergens.

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