Cajun Smoked Turkey

Cajun Smoked Turkey is loaded with flavor. A great addition to any holiday meal or great to make ahead for sandwiches. Easy to make at home and so much tastier than what you will find at the deli.

Cajun Smoked Turkey

Smoked turkey is one of the most delicious meats that you can cook to feed a crowd. Rather it’s a holiday dinner or just a houseful of hungry people, it has become one of our go-to meals. 

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I will admit that until we made Easy Smoked Turkey for Thanksgiving last year, it was never my favorite.

There are just a few steps to getting a moist and delicious smoked turkey and they make all of the difference!

We use the same method as our guide of How to Brine and Smoke a Whole Chicken. The brine is super simple and will give you a flavorful and tender outcome that is so much juicier than if you skip the brine process. 

How to Cook Cajun Smoked Turkey:

If starting with a frozen turkey, thaw completely and remove neck and gizzards, discard or keep for making gravy or stock.

Mix warm water and kosher salt together in a stock pot until salt is dissolved. Add peppercorns and a whole lemon, sliced in half. You can also add fresh herbs and garlic to the brine if desired.

Submerge turkey in water, cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours but not more than 24.

Remove turkey from brine and drain well. Pat dry with paper towels and place on a baking sheet.

Mix softened butter an Blackened Seasoning together. 

Loosen the skin of the turkey mainly over the breast. Rub butter mixture between the skin, over the outside of the turkey and inside the cavity. 

Prepare grill or smoker to about 300°.

Cook turkey for about 20 minutes per pound or until internal temperature reaches 165°.

Remove from grill and allow to rest 15 minutes before slicing. 

After Thanksgiving you can often pick up frozen turkeys at a real bargain. If you have a big freezer, it’s a great way to stretch your grocery budget throughout the year.

How Long Does a Frozen Turkey Keep?

Turkey brands say that a frozen turkey will keep for 2-3 years if it stays frozen but is best within 7 months. So keep that in mind after the holidays and you can have this delicious Cajun smoked turkey any time of year!

This Cajun Smoked Turkey turns out so gorgeous and would be a great centerpiece to any Thanksgiving or holiday meal. It’s easy enough to cook any time of year just for sandwiches, soups and casseroles. 

If you are feeding a smaller crowd, this Smoked Turkey Breast is a great option. 

Recipes for Leftover Turkey:

Turkey and chicken are totally interchangeable and when you have leftover smoked turkey, it makes the best casseroles, soups and pasta dishes. 

The classic Smoked Turkey Sandwich gets an upgrade with Cajun mayo, and served on a toasted baguette with tomatoes, lettuce and red onion. We also love the Turkey Club Sandwich for turkey leftovers. 

Smoked Turkey and Dumplings is the ultimate comfort food! So delicious and a great way to use up your leftover dark meat.

Turkey Salad is so simple and just might be the whole reason we even cook turkey! A great way to use up the dark meat if your family prefers the turkey breast. It makes a fantastic sandwich or enjoy it with crackers. 

Smoked Chicken and Black Bean Chili is a hearty meal that will fill up a hungry crowd. A definite favorite for game day or tailgating. 

Smoked Turkey Stock is a great way to use your turkey carcass. You won’t believe the flavor you get in this homemade broth! Easy to store in the freezer for your favorite soups and casseroles!