Grilling Guide

Summer and grilling go hand-in-hand, much like turkey and stuffing. And what better way to celebrate summer with family and friends than to have a cook-out. Just like Butterball is thrilled to be a part of your holiday gatherings, we’d be honored to be part of your summer celebrations, too.

So, here’s a guide to cooking up some delicious turkey on your grill.

Indirect vs. Direct Heat

Grilling provides the option of either direct or indirect heating. The type of food you’re preparing will determine which type of heating to use.

Direct heat grilling occurs when the flame cooks the food directly. Traditional grill fare – burgers, steaks, fresh cuts of turkey – is cooked with direct heat. Direct heat grilling is a faster cooking method than indirect heat grilling and any food that needs less than 25 minutes to cook should use direct heat. The direct method can be done on any grill.

Indirect heat grilling is perfect for whole turkey breasts, turkey roasts, whole turkeys, large cuts of meat and other foods that require longer cooking times at lower temperatures. Foods are cooked by reflected heat, like a convection oven. The fire is built off to the side with a charcoal grill – only half the burners in a gas grill might be lit – and the lid is closed during cooking. This creates an oven-like atmosphere where the food will be cooked slowly from all directions.

Gas vs. Charcoal Grills

A wide variety of grills are available for purchase, ranging from very small and portable, to giant built-in grills that might have up to six burners. Many people feel that gas grills are most convenient, but others prefer the smoky taste that a charcoal grill can provide.

Turkey is great on any type of grill – it is entirely a matter of personal preference.

Turkey on the Grill

Let’s get grilling!

Turkey burgers, sausages and fresh cuts are delicious every day when grilled with direct heat. Click here for detailed instructions on grilling burgers, sausages & more.

Indirect heat grilling is excellent for cooking whole turkeys and roasts. It not only produces a moist and beautiful turkey, it also keeps the heat out of your kitchen. Click here.

Grilling Tips from the Turkey Experts

Always preheat your grill. Spray oil onto cooking grates before heating. Right after cooking, scrape the grates with a grill brush to keep them free from debris. Keep an eye on your grill at all times while in use. Keep your grill instructions handy – there are dozens of different grills and each will have tested the best way to prepare and clean your grill. If you’ve lost yours, check the internet – manufacturers often publish instructions for their products on-line. Most of all, celebrate meals shared with family & friends in the great outdoors!