How to Rotisserie Roast a Turkey

A classic way to prepare a turkey, the rotisserie method is great for an evenly golden brown turkey, because the turkey is able to rotate fully over the heat source. Learn how to cook whole turkeys and boneless roasts using the rotisserie methods below.

Rotisserie Cooking a Whole Turkey

You should only rotisserie cook turkeys that weigh 12 lbs. or less.

  1. Remove the giblets and neck from a thawed fresh turkey. The turkey should be completely thawed for even, safe cooking.
  2. Drain juices and blot with paper towels.
  3. Do not stuff your turkey. Cook stuffing separately in a casserole dish in the oven.
  4. Tie the wings and legs to the body to prevent flopping. Be sure the neck skin is pulled back and caught under string or skewered back.
  5. Place one spit prong on a spit. Insert the spit from the neck to the tail. Insert the second spit prong and secure it tightly. For the most secure balance, position one prong at a right angle to the other prong.
  6. Test the balance by rotating the spit in your hands. If it’s unbalanced, re-thread it and tighten the prongs. The turkey must be balanced for even cooking.
  7. Insert the meat thermometer into the thigh, but not touching the bone.
  8. Brush the turkey with vegetable oil or spray it with cooking spray for best appearance.
  9. Place the spit on the rotisserie and grill according to the type of rotisserie being used:

     

  10. Cook the turkey to an internal temperature of 180° F in the thigh and 170° F in the breast as measured with a meat thermometer.

Cooking Times

Rotisserie

Weight Covered Grill Time
4-7 lbs. 1½-2 hrs.
7-10 lbs. 1¾-2½ hrs.

Balance

One Turkey Balances best if the spit is slightly toward the backbone since the breast cavity is hollow. Place the turkey in the center of the spit.
Two Turkeys Should be of similar size and shape for the best balance. Mount them on the spit by butting the two turkeys head to tail.

Grilling

Covered Charcoal Grill Arrange coals around the outer edge of the fire pan with the drip pan on the rack adjusted to the lowest position. Maintain medium heat (325° F). For square cookers, adjust the lid to half open. If the cover is closed, open vents.
Uncovered Charcoal Grill Arrange coals around the outer edge of the fire pan with the drip pan on the rack at the lowest position. Maintain medium heat (325° F).
Gas or Electric Follow the manufacturer’s instructions. It’s best to use the oven thermometer on the rack to determine the setting to maintain 325° F.

Did You Know?

When cooking two turkeys at one time, the cook time is not doubled. Time is according to individual weight of each turkey, not combined weights.

Suggested Products

We believe people should feel good about what they eat. That's why all Butterball® products are made with quality turkey for everyone and for any occasion.

Butterball® Turkey Talk-Line®

Got a turkey-related question? We can answer it!

Call 1-800-BUTTERBALL or text us at 844-877-3456 to chat with our turkey experts

turkey talk link

More Turkey Tips

How to Brine

Brining is the key to a juicy, flavor-filled turkey. Never tried it before? We'll show you how.

How to Stuff

Whether you call it stuffing or dressing, it's at the heart of any Thanksgiving. Let us show you how to prepare a stuffed turkey.

How to Thaw

Ready to get cooking? We'll show you the do's and don'ts of thawing your turkey.

How to Inject a Turkey

Looking to add a little extra flavor? Try injecting your turkey with a favorite marinade. It's simple and easy.

How to Carve

There's one last step before you dig in: carving! Don't be intimidated. We're here to guide you.

Food Safety Essentials

Get the information you need to store, prepare and enjoy your meal safely.

How to Make a Leftover Turkey Sandwich

Got leftovers? Make a sandwich! Turn your Thanksgiving dinner leftovers into another tasty meal.

How to Choose a Turkey

Fresh or frozen? Big or small? We can help you choose the right turkey for your next gathering with our how-to video.

How to Place a Meat Thermometer

Unsure of how to check if your turkey is done cooking? Use a meat thermometer!

How to Marinate

When you know the basics of marinating, you can guarantee great flavor every time. Let us show you the steps and some great recipes, too. There's a marinade for every occasion and every palate.

How to Inject a Turkey

Looking to add a little extra flavor? Try injecting your turkey with a favorite marinade. It's simple and easy.

How to Check for Doneness

Is the turkey done yet? You may have heard of different ways to check, but there’s only one way to be sure.