Quick Answer
To smoke a turkey tenderloin at 225°F, plan on cooking it for approximately 2-3 hours, depending on the size. A 1-2 pound tenderloin will take around 2 hours, while a larger 3-4 pound tenderloin may need up to 3 hours. Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness, cooking until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Detailed Overview
Smoking a turkey tenderloin is a great way to infuse delicious smoky flavor into the meat. Here is a more detailed overview on smoking times and tips for perfectly cooked turkey tenderloin at 225°F:
1. Choose the Right Size Tenderloin
Turkey tenderloins are the strips of white meat that run along the breastbone of the turkey. They are cylindrical in shape and typically range from 1-4 pounds.
For smoking, choose a tenderloin on the smaller side, around 1-2 pounds. Larger tenderloins can be smoked but may require longer cooking times. The ideal size will cook evenly throughout in 2-3 hours.
2. Prepare the Tenderloin
Start by trimming off any excess fat or silver skin from the tenderloin. Rinse under cold water and pat dry completely with paper towels.
For extra flavor, consider brining the tenderloin before smoking. Make a simple brine using 1 cup salt dissolved in 1 gallon of water. Submerge the tenderloin and refrigerate for 1-2 hours. Rinse and pat dry again before smoking.
You can also rub the tenderloin with your favorite blend of spices or herbs. Try cajun seasoning, rosemary, thyme or brown sugar for added flavor.
3. Set Up Your Smoker
Set up your smoker or smoker box attachment for indirect smoking at 225-250°F. Use your preferred smoking wood like hickory, apple, cherry or mesquite.
Soak the wood chips in water for 30 minutes before adding to the smoker to generate smoke. Place a drip pan filled with water in the smoker to help keep the temperature steady.
4. Smoke the Tenderloin
Place the seasoned tenderloin directly on the smoker grates, away from direct heat. Close the smoker and let it smoke for approximately:
- 1-2 pounds: Smoke for around 2 hours
- 3-4 pounds: Smoke for 2 1/2 – 3 hours
Maintain the smoker temperature at a steady 225-250°F. Avoid peeking inside too frequently, which can cause temperature fluctuations. Add more soaked wood chips if needed to keep smoke levels consistent.
5. Check for Doneness
The best way to test for doneness is by using an instant-read thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the tenderloin, away from any bones. It’s done when the internal temperature reaches:
- 165°F for safe consumption
If the tenderloin is not yet fully cooked, re-close the smoker and check again in 15 minute increments until it reaches 165°F.
6. Rest, Carve and Serve
Once smoked to the proper internal temperature, remove the tenderloin from the smoker. Cover loosely with foil and allow to rest for 10-15 minutes. This helps retain juiciness when you carve it.
Slice the tenderloin into medallions or slices. Serve warm, accompanied by your favorite sides, sauces or glazes. Enjoy the tender, juicy smoked turkey!
Key Tips for Smoking Turkey Tenderloin
Follow these tips for the best results when smoking turkey tenderloin at 225°F:
- Choose smaller tenderloins around 1-2 lbs for quicker, even cooking.
- Allow 2-3 hours smoking time depending on size.
- Use an instant read thermometer to check internal temperature.
- Cook to 165°F for safe consumption.
- Maintain a steady 225-250°F smoker temperature.
- Add soaked wood chips periodically for consistent smoke.
- Let the tenderloin rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
Properly smoking a turkey tenderloin results in juicy, smoky flavored meat. control the temperature and smoking time, and you’ll have delicious results.
Common Smoking Times for Turkey Tenderloin
Here is a table summarizing the approximate smoking times for turkey tenderloins of different sizes at 225°F:
| Turkey Tenderloin Weight | Approximate Smoking Time |
|---|---|
| 1 pound | 2 hours |
| 1.5 – 2 pounds | 2 – 2.5 hours |
| 3 – 4 pounds | 2.5 – 3 hours |
This table can serve as a guideline, but always rely on a thermometer for doneness rather than just smoking time. Cook to an internal temp of 165°F.
Smoking Turkey Tenderloin on a Pellet Grill
Pellet grills are a popular choice for smoking turkey tenderloin due to their precise temperature control:
- Set the pellet grill to 225°F for smoking.
- Use turkey, hickory or maple pellets for flavor.
- Place tenderloin on grill grates away from direct heat.
- Smoke for approximately 2-3 hours until 165°F.
- Switch to higher heat at end to crisp skin if desired.
The convenience of a pellet grill makes it simple to infuse flavorful smoke into turkey tenderloins. Let the grill do the temperature regulation for you.
Get Creative with Rubbed and Marinated Tenderloins
Beyond just salt and pepper, try these ideas for added flavor:
- Cajun: Rub with Cajun seasoning before smoking.
- Lemon-Herb: Marinate in lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary and garlic.
- Barbecue: Coat with your favorite barbeque sauce last 15-30 minutes.
- Jerk Style: Use Jamaican jerk seasoning and smoke with pimento wood.
- Teriyaki: Brush with teriyaki sauce before serving.
Mix up the flavors with spice rubs, herb blends, marinades and sauces. Get creative with your seasoning combos!
Serving Suggestions for Smoked Turkey Tenderloin
Smoked turkey tenderloin is extremely versatile. Slice and serve it:
- On sandwiches topped with spinach, swiss cheese and chipotle mayo.
- In salads, wraps or pitas for lunch.
- With roasted vegetables and rice or quinoa.
- In breakfast hashes or omelets.
- On cheese boards or charcuterie platters.
It also shines when paired with:
- Cranberry chutney or relish.
- Pesto, chimichurri or horseradish sauces.
- Fruit salsa.
- Honey mustard dipping sauce.
Get creative with how you use the sliced, smoked tenderloin in recipes. It’s perfect for appetizers through dinner.
Storing and Leftover Smoked Turkey
Properly stored, smoked turkey tenderloin will keep for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Here are some storage tips:
- Let cool completely before refrigerating.
- Store in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag.
- Use within 3-4 days for best quality.
- Slice and use in other dishes like sandwiches, salads or breakfasts.
- Can be frozen for 2-3 months. Thaw in fridge before using.
With its mild flavor, smoked turkey tenderloin is easy to incorporate into many different recipes. Use leftovers within 3-4 days or freeze for longer storage.
Conclusion
Smoking a turkey tenderloin at 225°F results in juicy, flavorful meat when cooked correctly. Plan on approximately 2-3 hours smoking time depending on size. Control the temperature and use a thermometer to ensure the tenderloin reaches 165°F. Add smoke wood periodically and let the tenderloin rest before slicing. Serve smoked turkey in sandwiches, salads, breakfast dishes and more. With the right techniques, you’ll enjoy mouthwatering smoked turkey tenderloin from your smoker.