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Perfectly smoked turkey ribs with a glossy barbecue glaze on a wooden serving board.

Easy Smoked Turkey Ribs Recipe

Lina
Discover the Easy Smoked Turkey Ribs Recipe that’s juicy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Simple steps, smoky goodness, and guaranteed to wow!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Course Main Dish
Cuisine American, Barbecue
Servings 4 Peopel
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • Turkey Ribs: Look for fresh high-quality turkey ribs to ensure tenderness and flavor.
  • Dry Rub: A blend of smoked paprika garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt creates a flavorful crust.
  • Olive Oil: Helps the seasoning adhere to the ribs while adding a touch of richness.

Smoking Essentials

  • Wood Chips: Choose hickory applewood, or mesquite for that classic smoky aroma.
  • Barbecue Sauce Optional: For a sticky, sweet finish, glaze the ribs during the final stage of smoking.

Optional Add-Ons

  • Brown Sugar or Honey: Add a hint of sweetness to balance the smokiness.
  • Cayenne Pepper: For a spicy kick sprinkle a little into your dry rub.

Tips for Success

  • If you can marinate the turkey ribs overnight with the seasoning to let the flavors fully penetrate the meat.
  • Always soak your wood chips in water for 30 minutes before adding them to the smoker. This prevents burning and ensures steady smoke.
  • Don’t skip the olive oil—it’s the secret to a perfectly caramelized exterior.

Instructions
 

Prep the Turkey Ribs

  • Clean and dry: Rinse the turkey ribs under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps the seasoning stick better.
  • Season generously: Lightly coat the ribs with olive oil, then rub your dry seasoning blend evenly over all sides. Don’t be shy with the spices—this is where the flavor begins!
  • Marinate for depth: For the best flavor, let the seasoned ribs rest in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight. This allows the spices to penetrate the meat.

Get Your Smoker Ready

  • Preheat the smoker: Set your smoker to 225°F (107°C) for that low-and-slow cooking magic.
  • Prepare the wood chips: Soak your chosen wood chips (like hickory, applewood, or mesquite) in water for about 30 minutes, then add them to your smoker for a steady, aromatic smoke.
  • Maintain moisture: Add water to the smoker’s water pan to keep the meat juicy during the cooking process.

Smoke the Turkey Ribs

  • Arrange the ribs: Place the turkey ribs on the smoker grates, bone-side down, ensuring there’s space between them for even cooking.
  • Let them smoke: Close the lid and let the ribs cook undisturbed for about 2.5 to 3 hours. Avoid opening the smoker too often—it’s important to keep a consistent temperature and smoke flow.

Optional Glazing (Last 30 Minutes)

  • Add a saucy twist: If you love sweet and sticky ribs, brush the ribs with your favorite barbecue sauce during the last 30 minutes of smoking. This step creates a caramelized, flavorful glaze.

Check for Doneness

  • Temperature check: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This guarantees the meat is fully cooked and safe to eat.
  • Test for tenderness: The ribs should be tender enough to pull gently away from the bone. If not, give them a bit more time.

Rest and Enjoy

  • Let them rest: Remove the ribs from the smoker and let them sit for 10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute for the best flavor and texture.
  • Serve and savor: Slice the ribs and serve them with your favorite sides. Each bite will be smoky, juicy, and utterly satisfying!

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 320
  • Protein: 32g
  • Total Fat: 12g
    • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
    • Fiber: 1g
    • Sugars: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg
  • Sodium: 820mg
Keyword barbecue turkey ribs, easy smoked turkey ribs recipe, Smoked Turkey Ribs