Thanksgiving is right around the corner, and it’s time to start thinking about the perfect centerpiece for your holiday feast. If you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-make turkey recipe that will leave your guests raving, then this Traeger turkey breast recipe is for you!
This recipe gives you all the classic flavors of Thanksgiving in one savory dish, from juicy turkey breast to flavorful herbs and spices.
How to smoke a turkey breast on a Traeger pellet grill
To get started, marinate the turkey breast with a combination of butter, mustard, salt, and pepper. Cover the breast with the butter mixture and refrigerate overnight.
Next, preheat your pellet grill to 250°F. Place it the turkey breast on the grill and smoke until the internal temperature reaches 165°F or about 3-4 hours.
Check the temperature often using a digital thermometer. When it is done, carefully remove it from the grill and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Bone-In vs Boneless
Bone-in turkey breasts usually have more flavor and juiciness due to the bones, however they can be difficult to carve and take longer to cook. Boneless turkey breasts are easier to carve and cook faster, but they don’t have the same amount of flavor as bone-in turkey breasts.
Both types of turkey breasts can be smoked but it is important to adjust the cooking time for each. To properly smoke a bone-in turkey breast you will need to cook it for approximately 3-4 hours, while a boneless breast will require a shorter cooking time of 2-3 hours.
Wood pellets to use
The type of wood pellets you choose will determine the flavor and aroma of the finished dish. Oak pellets are a popular choice for smoking turkey, imparting a mild flavor with hints of sweetness.
Cherry pellets are also popular for smoking turkey, as they provide a slightly sweeter, fruity flavor. Hickory pellets are great for adding a strong, smoky flavor to your dish.
Applewood pellets provide a subtle, sweet flavor that pairs well with poultry. Mesquite pellets are known for adding a robust, earthy flavor to meat dishes.
How long will it take to smoke
To get the perfect smoked turkey breast, you’ll need to plan ahead and factor in the right amount of time. Depending on the size of the turkey breast, it can take anywhere from 3 to 4 hours to smoke.
To ensure that the turkey breast is cooked properly, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The minimum internal temperature should be 165°F before you remove it from the smoker. Doing so will ensure that the turkey breast is juicy and full of flavor.
What side dish to serve
When it comes to deciding what side dishes to serve with your smoked turkey breast, there are plenty of options. From creamy mashed potatoes to roasted vegetables, there are many delicious options to choose from.
For an easy and flavorful dish, consider pairing your smoked turkey breast with roasted sweet potatoes. The sweetness of the potatoes will complement the smoky flavor of the turkey breast perfectly.
If you’re looking for a heartier side dish that will fill your guests up, serve some fluffy stuffing with your smoked turkey breast. The savory herbs and textures of the stuffing will be a delicious companion to the smokiness of the turkey.
If you’re looking for something light and fresh, try serving a crunchy, green salad alongside your smoked turkey breast. The crunchiness and acidity of the salad will provide a nice contrast to the smoky flavors of the turkey.
For a truly decadent side dish, consider making mac and cheese with your smoked turkey breast. The creamy richness of the mac and cheese will be a delicious complement to the smokiness of the turkey breast.
What to do with leftovers
From sandwiches to casseroles, there are countless ways to enjoy the deliciousness of turkey. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a hearty dinner, here are some great ideas for what to do with that extra protein.
To start, why not make some turkey sandwiches? With just a few ingredients, you can make a sandwich that’s as tasty as it is healthy. For something on the lighter side, try adding some avocado and lettuce to your sandwich for a nutritious and flavorful combination.
If you’d rather have something warm and comforting, why not try a turkey casserole? Just add your favorite vegetables, cheese and spices to the mix and you’ll have a meal that’s sure to please!
You can even turn that extra protein into some delicious tacos or wraps. Simply combine your turkey with some fresh vegetables, salsa and sour cream for a tasty Mexican-inspired meal.
The possibilities are endless when it comes to using up that leftover turkey breast. So get creative in the kitchen and enjoy the deliciousness of turkey!
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Traeger Turkey Breast
Make the perfect Thanksgiving dinner with this Traeger turkey breast recipe! Rich, juicy, and easy to make - you won't regret trying this tasty twist on a classic.
Ingredients
- 6-8 lbs Turkey Breast
Marinade
- 5 tbsp Butter
- 6 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Ground Black Pepper
- 1 tsp Kosher Salt
Instructions
In a small bowl, combine butter, mustard, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well mixed.
Rub the turkey breast with the marinade mixture. Refrigerate overnight.
Preheat Traeger smoker to 250°F with your favorite wood pellets.
Place turkey breast in the smoker and smoke for 3-4 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Rest for 15 minutes before serving.