How Long Does It Take to Cook on Barbecue Rotisserie 13 Pound Turkey

So, you've heard the saying, 'Good things come to those who wait,' and when it comes to cooking a 13-pound turkey on a barbecue rotisserie, it couldn't be truer. The anticipation of that perfectly golden, juicy turkey slowly cooking over an open flame is enough to make anyone's mouth water.

But just how long does it take to achieve that mouthwatering masterpiece? The answer lies in a delicate balance of time, temperature, and technique.

As you embark on this flavorful journey, you'll uncover the secrets to mastering the art of rotisserie turkey cooking.

Selecting the Right Turkey Size

When choosing the right turkey size for your barbecue rotisserie, consider the capacity of your rotisserie and the number of guests you'll be serving. It's essential to ensure that the turkey fits securely on the rotisserie spit and that there's enough space for it to rotate freely without touching the heating elements.

A 13-pound turkey is a great choice for a barbecue rotisserie, as it's large enough to feed a sizable gathering of around 8 to 10 people, depending on their appetites.

Before cooking, ensure that the turkey is fully thawed. Thawing a turkey in the refrigerator typically takes around 24 hours for every 4-5 pounds of turkey, so a 13-pound turkey will need approximately 2-3 days to thaw completely.

When it comes to cooking methods, a rotisserie is an excellent choice as it allows the turkey to cook evenly, with the rotating motion ensuring that all sides are exposed to the heat. This results in a beautifully golden and evenly cooked turkey, with deliciously crispy skin all around.

Preparing the Turkey for the Rotisserie

Now that you've got your turkey ready, it's time to prep it for the rotisserie.

Trussing the turkey will help it cook evenly and maintain its shape on the rotisserie.

Seasoning the turkey inside and out with your favorite herbs and spices will infuse it with delicious flavor.

Trussing the Turkey

To prepare the turkey for the rotisserie, you can start by trussing it to ensure even cooking and a beautifully roasted bird. Proper trussing helps the turkey cook evenly and retains its moisture, resulting in a tender and juicy meat. Here are some trussing techniques and best practices to ensure a perfect outcome:

1. Traditional Trussing: Using kitchen twine, tie the turkey's legs together and secure the wings against the body. This method provides a neat presentation but requires some skill.
2. Netting: Using a trussing net can make the process easier and quicker. It ensures a compact shape, but the net marks can be left on the skin.
3. No Trussing: Some cooks prefer not to truss the turkey, allowing for faster cooking and easier carving. However, this can result in uneven cooking.
4. Adjustable Trussing Pins: These handy tools secure the turkey for even cooking and are convenient for beginners. However, they may leave small puncture marks.

Seasoning the Turkey

Consider using a flavorful blend of herbs and spices to season your turkey, enhancing its taste and creating a delicious rotisserie experience. There are various techniques to infuse flavor into your turkey, such as brining and flavor injection. Brining involves soaking the turkey in a saltwater solution, which helps it retain moisture and enhances its natural flavors. Flavor injection, on the other hand, involves using a marinade or seasoned liquid to inject directly into the turkey meat, ensuring a burst of flavor in every bite. Here's a simple seasoning blend to get you started:

Herb/Spice	Quantity	Purpose
Rosemary	2 tbsp	Aromatic flavor
Thyme	1 tbsp	Earthy undertones
Paprika	1 tbsp	Subtle smokiness

These ingredients can be mixed with olive oil to form a paste, which can then be rubbed onto the turkey, providing a rich, flavorful coating.

Securing the Turkey

After seasoning your turkey with a flavorful blend of herbs and spices, the next step is to securely fasten it onto the rotisserie for a perfectly cooked and delicious meal.

Here's how to ensure your turkey is securely fastened to the rotisserie:

1. Truss the Turkey: Use kitchen twine to tie the turkey's legs and wings close to the body. This helps the turkey cook evenly and prevents it from flopping around on the rotisserie.
2. Secure with Prongs: Use rotisserie prongs to firmly hold the turkey in place. Ensure the prongs are tightly secured to prevent any wobbling during the cooking process.
3. Check Rotisserie Safety Features: Before starting the rotisserie, ensure all safety features are in place. This includes making sure the rotisserie is stable and properly assembled.
4. Inspect Rotisserie Maintenance: Regularly check the rotisserie for any signs of wear and tear. Ensure that all parts are in good condition to securely hold the turkey while cooking.

Ensuring the turkey is securely fastened not only guarantees a delicious outcome but also promotes rotisserie safety and maintenance.

Setting Up the Barbecue Rotisserie

Once you've assembled the barbecue rotisserie, make sure to securely fasten the spit rod in place before loading the turkey onto it. This will ensure that the turkey is evenly balanced and will rotate smoothly during the cooking process. To help you understand the importance of this step, take a look at the table below, which highlights the key aspects of setting up the barbecue rotisserie.

Setting Up the Barbecue Rotisserie
Step 1: Fasten the Spit Rod
Tighten the screws or clamps to secure the spit rod in place. Ensure it is centered and level to avoid imbalance during cooking.
Step 2: Preheat the Grill
Before placing the turkey on the rotisserie, preheat the grill to the desired temperature. This will help in maintaining consistent heat throughout the cooking process.
Step 3: Position the Drip Pan
Place a drip pan beneath the turkey to catch drippings and prevent flare-ups. Add water, broth, or wine to the drip pan for added moisture and flavor.

Cooking Temperature and Time Guidelines

Now that the rotisserie is set up, it's crucial to understand the cooking temperature and time guidelines for your 13-pound turkey.

Getting the temperature just right ensures a juicy and evenly cooked bird, while knowing the approximate cooking time helps you plan your meal perfectly.

Factors like turkey weight also play a role in determining the ideal cooking duration, so let's get into the specifics.

Temperature for Cooking

For a perfectly cooked 13-pound turkey on a barbecue rotisserie, it's crucial to maintain a consistent cooking temperature throughout the process. Here are some essential temperature guidelines to ensure a delicious outcome:

1. Preheat: Before starting the rotisserie, preheat the barbecue to around 325°F (163°C) for optimal cooking conditions.
2. Internal Temperature: Monitor the internal temperature of the turkey using a meat thermometer. The turkey should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
3. Even Heat: Ensure the rotisserie is evenly distributing heat to the turkey. Adjust the burners or coals to maintain a steady temperature throughout the cooking process.
4. Resting Period: After cooking, allow the turkey to rest for 20-30 minutes before carving. This resting period helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful turkey.

Maintaining these temperature guidelines will lead to a perfectly cooked, succulent turkey on the rotisserie.

Time Required

Maintaining an optimal cooking temperature is crucial for a perfectly cooked 13-pound turkey on a barbecue rotisserie. When using a rotisserie, the cooking time for a 13-pound turkey is approximately 2.5 to 3 hours at a constant temperature of 325°F (163°C).

It's important to note that this is a general guideline, and the actual time may vary based on factors such as the specific rotisserie model, outdoor weather conditions, and the turkey's internal temperature. Ensure that you use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, as the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Remember to periodically check the rotisserie's maintenance, ensuring that it's clean and properly lubricated for optimal performance. By mastering these cooking techniques and maintaining your rotisserie, you'll be on your way to achieving a succulent and flavorful turkey.

Turkey Weight Consideration

Consider the weight of your turkey when determining the cooking temperature and time needed for a perfectly juicy and flavorful result on the barbecue rotisserie.

When roasting a turkey on a barbecue rotisserie, the turkey's weight plays a crucial role in ensuring it's cooked thoroughly and safely. Here are some guidelines to consider:

1. Cooking Temperature: Adjust the cooking temperature based on the weight of the turkey to ensure even cooking without drying out the meat.
2. Cooking Time: The cooking time will vary depending on the turkey's weight. Plan accordingly to allow enough time for the turkey to cook through while retaining its moisture.
3. Internal Temperature: Regardless of the weight, always ensure the internal temperature of the turkey reaches a safe level to kill any harmful bacteria.
4. Resting Time: After cooking, allow the turkey to rest for a certain period, which may vary based on its weight, to let the juices redistribute for a succulent result.

Understanding these considerations will help you master the art of turkey roasting on a barbecue rotisserie.

Monitoring and Basting the Turkey

To ensure the turkey stays moist and flavorful, regularly check its internal temperature and baste it with the drippings. When using the rotisserie technique to cook a 13-pound turkey on a barbecue, monitoring the internal temperature is crucial. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of the turkey, ensuring it reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. Periodically rotate the turkey on the rotisserie to ensure even cooking and browning. As the turkey cooks, the drippings will accumulate in the drip pan. Basting the turkey with these flavorful drippings will add moisture and enhance the savory flavors.

Additionally, consider basting the turkey with a marinade to infuse it with extra flavor. A simple marinade of olive oil, herbs, garlic, and citrus can add depth to the turkey's taste. Apply the marinade before cooking and continue to baste with it throughout the cooking process. This won't only keep the turkey moist but also add layers of delicious flavors.

Testing for Doneness

Ensure your turkey is fully cooked by testing for doneness with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the bird, making sure it reaches 165°F (74°C).

When it comes to testing for doneness, using a meat thermometer is crucial for ensuring that your turkey is safe to eat. Here are some key points to consider:

1. Doneness Testing: A meat thermometer is the most accurate way to check if your turkey is thoroughly cooked. Ensure the thermometer is inserted into the thickest part of the turkey without touching the bone for the most accurate reading.
2. Thermometer Accuracy: It's essential to use a reliable meat thermometer to accurately gauge the internal temperature of the turkey. Check the calibration of your thermometer to ensure its accuracy.
3. Checking Readiness: When using a meat thermometer, it's important to wait for a few seconds for the temperature to stabilize. This will ensure you get an accurate reading of the turkey's internal temperature.
4. Color Evaluation: While a golden-brown color is appealing, it's not a reliable indicator of doneness. Always rely on the temperature reading from the meat thermometer to determine if the turkey is thoroughly cooked.

Resting and Carving the Turkey

Rest your perfectly cooked turkey for 20-30 minutes before carving to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful result. This resting time is crucial as it allows the internal temperature to even out and the juices to settle, making the meat easier to carve and enhancing its overall taste.

While the turkey rests, use this time to prepare your serving platter and gather your carving tools.

When it comes to carving techniques, start by removing the twine or any clips securing the legs and wings. Then, carefully carve the breast meat by making steady, even slices against the grain. For the legs and thighs, separate them from the body and carve the meat off the bone. Remember to save the bones for making stock later.

For slicing and serving tips, arrange the carved meat on a warm platter, garnished with fresh herbs or citrus slices for an appealing presentation. Consider offering a variety of sauces or flavored butters on the side to complement the turkey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use a Different Type of Meat on the Barbecue Rotisserie Instead of Turkey?

You can absolutely use different meats on the barbecue rotisserie instead of turkey! Brisket and chicken are great alternatives. The rotisserie offers a variety of options to cook meats, giving you delicious and juicy results.

How Often Should I Check on the Turkey While It's Cooking on the Rotisserie?

While cooking on the rotisserie, it's best to check on the turkey every 30-45 minutes. This ensures even cooking and allows you to make any necessary adjustments. If you're substituting a different meat, monitor it closely for the best results.

What Type of Wood Chips or Pellets Should I Use for Adding Smoke Flavor to the Turkey?

For adding smoke flavor to the turkey on the rotisserie, use wood chips like hickory, apple, or cherry for a rich flavor. Soak the chips before smoking to control the release of smoke and try different techniques for varied flavors.

Is It Necessary to Brine the Turkey Before Cooking It on the Rotisserie?

Brining benefits the turkey by enhancing juiciness and flavor, especially when cooking on the rotisserie. It's not necessary, but highly recommended. Rotisserie cooking techniques ensure even cooking and a delicious, succulent turkey. Try it!

Can I Use a Marinade or Rub on the Turkey Before Cooking It on the Rotisserie?

Yes, you can use a marinade or dry rub on the turkey before cooking it on the rotisserie. Both options infuse flavor and enhance the juiciness of the turkey, adding a delicious dimension to your rotisserie cooking.