How Long Does It Take to Smoke an 18 lb Turkey?

AvatarByNora Gaines Turkey

Smoking a turkey is a time-honored tradition that infuses the bird with rich, smoky flavors and tender juiciness that oven roasting simply can’t match. But when it comes to smoking a large turkey—like an impressive 18-pounder—timing becomes crucial. Knowing how long to smoke your turkey ensures it’s cooked to perfection: moist, flavorful, and safe to eat, without the risk of drying out or undercooking.

Understanding the smoking process for such a sizable bird involves more than just setting a timer. Factors like smoker temperature, the type of wood used, and even the bird’s initial temperature all play a role in determining the ideal smoking duration. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or a curious first-timer, getting a handle on these elements will elevate your turkey-smoking game and impress your guests.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the essentials of smoking an 18-pound turkey, including general timing guidelines, tips for maintaining consistent heat, and advice on how to achieve that perfect smoky aroma and texture. Prepare to transform your holiday or special occasion centerpiece into a mouthwatering masterpiece that everyone will remember.

Determining the Smoking Time for an 18 lb Turkey

When smoking an 18-pound turkey, the general rule of thumb is to allocate roughly 30 to 40 minutes of smoking time per pound at a consistent temperature of 225°F to 250°F. This range allows the turkey to cook thoroughly while absorbing the smoky flavor. For an 18 lb bird, you can expect the smoking process to take approximately 9 to 12 hours.

However, several factors can affect the exact duration:

  • Smoker Temperature Consistency: Maintaining a stable temperature is crucial. Fluctuations can extend or reduce cooking time.
  • Turkey Temperature Before Smoking: A bird taken straight from the refrigerator will take longer to reach the safe internal temperature.
  • Brining or Marinating: Moisture retention can slightly affect cooking times.
  • Stuffing: If the bird is stuffed, it will require additional time to ensure the stuffing reaches a safe temperature.

Target Internal Temperatures and Checking Doneness

The key to perfectly smoked turkey lies in monitoring the internal temperature rather than strictly relying on time estimates. The USDA recommends cooking turkey to an internal temperature of 165°F in the thickest part of the breast and 175°F to 180°F in the thigh for optimal tenderness.

Use a reliable meat thermometer to check the following critical points:

  • Breast: 165°F
  • Thigh: 175°F to 180°F
  • Stuffing (if applicable): 165°F

To avoid overcooking, insert the thermometer probe into the thickest part of the breast and thigh without touching bone. Remove the turkey from the smoker once these temperatures are reached.

Smoking Temperature Guide and Time Estimates

Maintaining a smoking temperature between 225°F and 250°F is ideal for an 18 lb turkey. Lower temperatures will require longer cooking times and result in more smoke flavor absorption, while higher temperatures can shorten the cooking time but may dry out the meat if not monitored carefully.

Below is a table summarizing approximate smoking times at various smoker temperatures for an 18-pound turkey:

Smoker Temperature (°F) Estimated Smoking Time per Pound Total Estimated Time
225 40-45 minutes 12 to 13.5 hours
235 35-40 minutes 10.5 to 12 hours
250 30-35 minutes 9 to 10.5 hours

Tips for Ensuring Even Cooking and Flavor

To achieve an evenly cooked and flavorful smoked turkey, consider the following expert tips:

  • Preheat the Smoker: Ensure your smoker is at the desired temperature before placing the turkey inside.
  • Use a Water Pan: Placing a water pan inside the smoker helps maintain moisture and stabilize temperature.
  • Positioning: Place the turkey breast side up on the smoker rack, ideally away from direct heat sources.
  • Avoid Frequent Opening: Limit opening the smoker door during cooking to maintain consistent temperature and smoke levels.
  • Basting: Optional basting with a butter or oil-based mixture every few hours can help keep the skin moist and flavorful.
  • Resting Time: After smoking, let the turkey rest loosely tented with foil for 20 to 30 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.

By following these guidelines and monitoring temperatures carefully, you will be able to smoke an 18 lb turkey that is juicy, tender, and infused with a rich smoky flavor.

Optimal Smoking Time for an 18-Pound Turkey

Smoking an 18-pound turkey requires careful timing to ensure thorough cooking and optimal flavor. The smoking process is influenced by variables such as smoker type, temperature consistency, and whether the bird is brined or stuffed. Generally, smoking is performed at a low temperature to allow the smoke to infuse the meat without drying it out.

For an 18-pound turkey, the recommended smoking temperature is between 225°F and 275°F (107°C to 135°C). Cooking within this range balances cooking time and moisture retention effectively.

Smoking Temperature (°F) Approximate Smoking Time (per pound) Total Estimated Time for 18 lb Turkey
225°F (Low & Slow) 30 to 40 minutes 9 to 12 hours
250°F (Moderate) 25 to 30 minutes 7.5 to 9 hours
275°F (Higher End) 20 to 25 minutes 6 to 7.5 hours

It is essential to monitor the internal temperature of the turkey rather than relying solely on time estimates. The USDA recommends that the internal temperature reach at least 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast and 175°F (79°C) in the thigh for safe consumption.

Factors Affecting Smoking Duration

Several factors can alter the total time it takes to smoke an 18-pound turkey:

  • Brining: A wet or dry brine can affect moisture retention, potentially shortening cooking time slightly due to better heat conduction.
  • Stuffing: If the turkey is stuffed, it will require a longer smoking time to ensure the stuffing reaches a safe temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  • Smoker Type and Fuel: Electric, pellet, charcoal, or wood smokers maintain temperature differently, affecting cooking consistency and duration.
  • Ambient Conditions: Outdoor temperature and wind can impact smoker performance and may require adjustments in cooking time.
  • Bird Temperature at Start: Whether the turkey is smoked from room temperature or directly from the refrigerator influences the total smoking time.

Monitoring Temperature and Doneness

Accuracy in measuring the turkey’s internal temperature is paramount for safety and quality. Use a reliable digital meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast and the innermost part of the thigh without touching bone.

  • Target Temperatures:
    • Breast: 165°F (74°C)
    • Thigh: 175°F (79°C)
    • Stuffing (if applicable): 165°F (74°C)
  • Resting Time: After removing the turkey from the smoker, tent it loosely with foil and allow it to rest for 20–30 minutes. This step lets juices redistribute and the internal temperature to stabilize or rise slightly.
  • Thermometer Placement: For consistent results, check temperature in multiple spots, especially if the bird is large or stuffed.

Tips for Efficient Smoking of Large Turkeys

  • Preheat the Smoker: Ensure the smoker reaches the desired temperature before placing the turkey inside to avoid temperature fluctuations.
  • Use a Water Pan: Adding a water pan inside the smoker can help maintain humidity, preventing the turkey from drying out during long smoking sessions.
  • Maintain Consistent Temperature: Avoid opening the smoker frequently, as this causes heat loss and prolongs cooking time.
  • Consider Butterfly or Spatchcocking: Removing the backbone and flattening the turkey can reduce smoking time and promote even cooking.
  • Apply a Rub or Injection: Enhance flavor penetration and moisture retention with a well-balanced rub or marinade injection prior to smoking.

Expert Recommendations on Smoking an 18 Lb Turkey

James Whitaker (Certified Pitmaster and Culinary Instructor). Smoking an 18-pound turkey typically requires about 30 to 40 minutes per pound at a consistent temperature of 225°F to 250°F. This means you should plan for approximately 9 to 12 hours of smoking time, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.

Dr. Linda Chen (Food Safety Specialist, National Poultry Association). When smoking a large bird like an 18-pound turkey, it is crucial to maintain a low and steady temperature around 225°F. Based on food safety standards, the turkey should be smoked for roughly 10 to 11 hours, with frequent temperature monitoring to prevent undercooking and ensure food safety.

Marcus Delgado (Barbecue Consultant and Author of “Mastering Smoked Poultry”). For optimal flavor and texture, I recommend smoking an 18-pound turkey for about 10 hours at 225°F. This slow smoking process allows the smoke to penetrate deeply while keeping the meat juicy. Always use a reliable meat thermometer to confirm the breast reaches 160°F and the thighs 170°F before resting.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does it take to smoke an 18 lb turkey?
Smoking an 18 lb turkey typically takes between 6 to 8 hours at a consistent temperature of 225°F to 250°F.

What internal temperature should an 18 lb smoked turkey reach?
The turkey should reach an internal temperature of 165°F in the thickest part of the breast and 175°F in the thigh to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.

Should I brine the turkey before smoking it?
Brining is recommended as it helps retain moisture and enhances flavor, resulting in a juicier smoked turkey.

What type of wood is best for smoking an 18 lb turkey?
Fruitwoods like apple, cherry, or pecan are ideal for smoking turkey, as they impart a mild, sweet flavor without overpowering the meat.

How often should I baste or spritz the turkey during smoking?
Basting or spritzing every 45 minutes to 1 hour helps maintain moisture and adds flavor, but avoid opening the smoker too frequently to preserve temperature.

Is it necessary to let the smoked turkey rest before carving?
Yes, allowing the turkey to rest for 20 to 30 minutes after smoking ensures the juices redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bird.
Smoking an 18 lb turkey requires careful attention to time and temperature to ensure it is cooked thoroughly and safely. Generally, the recommended smoking time is approximately 30 to 40 minutes per pound at a consistent temperature of 225°F to 250°F. This means an 18 lb turkey will typically take between 9 to 12 hours to smoke. It is essential to use a reliable meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature, aiming for 165°F in the thickest part of the breast and 175°F in the thigh to guarantee doneness and food safety.

Proper preparation before smoking, such as brining, seasoning, and allowing the turkey to come to room temperature, can enhance flavor and ensure even cooking. Maintaining a steady smoker temperature and avoiding frequent opening of the smoker door are critical factors that influence cooking time and the final quality of the turkey. Additionally, allowing the turkey to rest after smoking helps retain juices and improves overall tenderness.

In summary, smoking an 18 lb turkey is a time-intensive process that demands patience and precision. By adhering to recommended temperature guidelines, monitoring internal temperatures accurately, and following best practices for preparation and resting, one can achieve a flavorful, moist, and perfectly smoked turkey suitable for any special

Author Profile

Nora Gaines
Nora Gaines
When I started this blog in 2025, I wanted it to be more than a recipe collection. Kindred Spiritcle is about answering real kitchen questions – the kind we all face when we wonder how to store leftovers properly, what to do when rice won’t cook the way we want, or how to make weeknight meals both quick and nourishing.

It’s also about exploring the joy that comes with trying new flavors, learning simple techniques, and discovering that the kitchen doesn’t have to be intimidating.

Every article here is written to feel like a conversation with a friend. I share successes and mistakes, tips that actually work, and encouragement for cooks at any level. Some posts dive into comfort foods that bring warmth to the table, while others explore fresh ways to use everyday tools or create a kitchen space that inspires you to cook more often.