Cooking a Turkey on the Kamado Joe Classic Grill

The Kamado Joe Classic grill is a versatile ceramic cooker that can handle everything from low and slow barbecue to high-heat searing. Its thick ceramic walls hold in heat for incredible temperature control. But can you cook a whole turkey on the 18″ Kamado Joe Classic? Here’s what you need to know.

Kamado Joe Classic Cooking Space

The cooking surface diameter of the Classic 18″ model is about 15 inches This gives 154 square inches of direct grilling space

The domed lid adds height for indirect cooking as well. According to Kamado Joe, the Classic can accommodate up to a 16 pound turkey.

Choosing the Right Turkey Size

When selecting a turkey to cook on your Kamado Joe smaller is better.

For the most even cooking choose a turkey that is 12-14 pounds at the largest. This allows some clearance around the edges so all sides get exposed to the heat.

If buying a frozen turkey, allow 1-2 days thawing time in the refrigerator before cooking. Removing the giblets and neck from the cavities will also promote even cooking.

Trussing the Turkey

Before placing your turkey on the grill, truss it by tying the legs together with butcher’s twine. Trussing compresses the body to cook more evenly.

Put a length of twine under the turkey and wrap it over the drumsticks, pulling them close to the tail. Flip and tie the ends to secure.

Setting Up the Kamado Joe

The Kamado Joe Classic has a heat range of 225°F up to 750°F which makes it perfect for roasting poultry. Place a flat metal grate in the grill with a drip pan underneath to catch juices.

For turkeys up to 12 lbs, cook between 325-350°F with the dome closed to rely on indirect heat. The ceramic walls distribute the heat evenly around the turkey.

Use an instant read thermometer to check temperatures. Cook until the breast reaches 160-165°F and thighs reach 175°F.

Smoking a Turkey

You can also smoke a turkey on the Kamado Joe for added flavor. Use wood chunks like hickory, apple, or cherry.

Set up the grill for low and slow cooking at 225-250°F. Estimate 15-20 minutes per pound cooking time for smoking turkey to ensure thorough cooking.

Finishing Touches

Let the turkey rest 20-30 minutes once removed from the grill before carving. The juices will redistribute through the meat.

Adding a spice rub under the skin or glazing the turkey with a sauce during the last 30 minutes of grilling adds flavor.

Kamado Joe Classic Turkey Tips

• Choose a 12-14 lb turkey for easiest cooking in the Joe Jr.
• Truss legs together to cook evenly
• Cook at 325-350°F with dome closed using indirect heat
• Use a thermometer to check doneness
• Allow turkey to rest before slicing into it

With some simple preparation, you can easily cook a Thanksgiving or holiday turkey on the versatile Kamado Joe Classic grill. Focus on a smaller bird and utilize indirect heating for moist, flavorful results.