Thanksgiving is usually an indoor affair with the oven working overtime, the kitchen packed shoulder-to-shoulder, and the smoke alarm ready to join the conversation. But what if you moved the whole show outside this year? Cooking outdoors for Thanksgiving isn’t just about novelty — it can be easier, more social, and way more fun.
Let’s talk about why it’s worth it, how to keep it safe, and the best ways to pull it off.
What are the Benefits of Cooking Outdoors for Thanksgiving?
Cooking outdoors offers some advantages that you may not have considered!
It Frees Up Your Kitchen
The turkey alone can hog your oven half the day. Move it outside, and suddenly you’ve got space inside for pies, sides, and people.
It’s a Social Event, Not Just a Meal
Cooking outdoors turns prep time into hangout time. Guests can gather around the grill, help with the fire, or just sip a drink while soaking in the crisp autumn air.
You Get Flavors You Can’t Create Indoors
Smoky, charred, wood-fired – whether it’s turkey on a smoker or veggies on a grill, outdoor cooking adds a depth you won’t get from kitchen appliances.
It Keeps the Mess (and Heat) Outside
No grease splatters on your walls, no crowd around the oven, and no extra heat fighting your thermostat. Win-win.
Before You Cook: Safety Recommendations to Avoid a Turkey Day Disaster
Cooking outdoors is great, but it comes with its own set of hazards. A few smart precautions will keep you out of the emergency room (and your turkey out of the flames).
Keep Fryers Far from the House
If you’re deep-frying a turkey, set up at least 10 feet away from anything flammable. Never fry on a deck, never drop a frozen bird into hot oil, and always have a fire extinguisher nearby.
Watch the Weather
Wind and fire don’t mix. Keep grills and smokers sheltered from gusts, and don’t cook under low-hanging branches or a canopy.
Check Your Gear Before You Light Up
Inspect propane lines for leaks, clear any grease buildup, and make sure your smoker or grill is stable and level.
Stay Close and Stay Sober
This isn’t the time to “set it and forget it”. Stay present while flames or heat are in play, and save the strong drinks for when the food’s off the fire.
5 Methods for Cooking Outdoors
The beauty of outdoor cooking is variety. Whether you’re into fire, smoke, or flame-grilled perfection, there’s a way to make Thanksgiving dinner under open skies.
The Smoker
A smoker gives you that low-and-slow magic – tender turkey, rich flavor, and crispy skin if you finish it with a quick sear. Add wood chips like apple or hickory for a deep, savory aroma. Smokers also shine for side dishes like mac and cheese, sweet potatoes, or cornbread – all of which pick up a beautiful smoky edge.
The Grill
Don’t underestimate your grill. It’s a powerhouse for a full Thanksgiving meal, not just the main bird.
Rotisserie Turkey
If your grill has a rotisserie attachment, this is your moment. Rotisserie cooking delivers evenly roasted turkey with perfectly crisp skin and juicy meat all the way through.
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Prep: Truss the turkey so it spins evenly and doesn’t flop around.
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Heat setup: Use indirect heat by only using the burners on the sides. Keep the grill around 350°F.
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Flavor boost: Add a drip pan under the turkey with broth, herbs, and onions. It catches drippings (great for gravy) and keeps the bird moist.
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Timing: Figure about 12–15 minutes per pound, checking the internal temp until it hits 165°F in the thickest part of the breast.
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Finishing touch: Brush with melted butter or glaze during the last 20 minutes for golden-brown, glossy skin.
Grilled Sides
Sides don’t have to sit this one out, the grill can handle them all!
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Vegetables: Toss Brussels sprouts, carrots, or squash in olive oil and seasonings, then cook in a grill basket until caramelized.
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Stuffing: Make your stuffing in a foil pan and grill it next to the turkey, letting it absorb smoky flavor and crisp up on top.
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Potatoes: Slice potatoes or sweet potatoes into rounds, brush with butter, and grill for a smoky twist on mashed potatoes.
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Cornbread or rolls: Use a cast iron skillet over indirect heat; cover the grill to mimic oven baking.
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Desserts: Yes, you can even grill dessert. Try halved peaches or apple slices brushed with honey and cinnamon for a warm, simple finish. Pumpkin pie can even be cooked on the grill! Just start heating it up as everyone sits down for dinner to enjoy later.
The key is temperature control. Keep one side of the grill cooler for indirect cooking (the turkey’s side) and another hotter zone for searing and sides. Use a reliable thermometer to track your heat and rotate dishes as needed.
The Deep Fryer
It’s fast (about 3 minutes per pound), crispy, and delicious – as long as you do it safely. Make sure your turkey is completely thawed and dry, lower it slowly, and keep kids and pets far away.
The Open Fire Pit or Dutch Oven
For a rustic twist, use cast iron over open coals. A Dutch oven can handle mashed potatoes, biscuits, or cobbler. Roasting over an open flame adds a primal touch that fits perfectly with fall weather. Prep your fire pit with a cooking grate and you’re ready to go!
The Outdoor Pizza Oven or Pellet Grill
If you’ve got one, it’s not just for pizza. Roast turkey breast, bake sides, or even do a pumpkin pie. Pellet grills, especially, are versatile and give you steady temperature control.
Outdoor Cooking Prep
Before you fire up the grill or smoker, it's a good idea to make sure you have everything you need for cooking a delicious feast and enjoying the autumn weather. Preparation is the key to success!
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Do a quick equipment check: Make sure the grill, smoker, fryer, or Dutch oven is in good working order.
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Have fuel ready: Get your propane tank refilled and replenish your supply of charcoal or pellets.
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Locate thermometers: Be sure to have at least two thermometers on hand to keep an eye on the consistent temperature. You'll need one thermometer for the grill and one for checking the turkey.
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Practice fire safety: Always keep a fire extinguisher or baking soda nearby. Never use water to put out grease fires.
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Set up a prep area: A table or serving cart for seasoning and resting food is handy while you're cooking.
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Gather tools: Put all the tools you'll need for grilling or smoking near your cooking station. Long-handled tongs, a spatula, grill gloves, foil, and drip pans are all essential.
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Provide good lighting: Lanterns or string lights are useful for lighting up your patio or yard if you'll be cooking into dusk.
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Plan for the weather: Keep an eye on the forecast and adapt as needed. A wind block, canopy, or backup shelter can be a lifesaver if it starts raining.
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Keep the food warm: After the food is finished cooking, place it in warming trays or coolers with hot bricks so they are still fresh when the meal is ready to go!
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Ensure your guests' comfort: Bring out blankets and/or set up a patio heater or a fire pit to keep guests cozy while spending time outside.
Outdoor Thanksgiving cooking isn’t about abandoning tradition, it’s about taking it back to its roots. It’s about fire, food, and community. You’ll get bold flavors, less stress, and maybe a few new family stories to tell next year.
So grab your jacket, light the coals, and let the autumn air be your kitchen companion this Thanksgiving.
