Are you ready to spice up your culinary game with some adventurous eats? Look no further than the humble wild turkey! With its rich, gamey flavor and versatility in the kitchen, this bird is a must-try for any serious foodie. From classic comfort foods to bold international twists, we’ve rounded up 18 mouth-watering wild turkey recipes that are sure to satisfy your taste buds.
From slow-cooked stews to pan-seared breast, these dishes showcase the best of what wild turkey has to offer. And with a range of flavors and cooking methods, there’s something for everyone in this list. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just looking to try something new, these recipes are sure to inspire your next culinary adventure.
So, without further ado, let’s dive into our top 18 wild turkey recipes…
Herb-Roasted Wild Turkey with Garlic Butter
Impress your guests with this show-stopping wild turkey dish, infused with the aromatic flavors of herbs and garlic. Perfect for special occasions or holidays.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-5 lb) wild turkey breast or thighs
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the turkey under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, chopped thyme, and dried rosemary.
4. Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan. Brush the herb-garlic butter mixture evenly over the turkey, making sure to cover all surfaces.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast the turkey for 20-25 minutes per pound or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours for a 4-5 lb wild turkey.
Smoked Wild Turkey with Maple Glaze
Smoked Wild Turkey with Maple Glaze Recipe
This recipe combines the rich flavor of smoked wild turkey with a sweet and sticky maple glaze, perfect for special occasions or as a unique twist on traditional Thanksgiving dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) wild turkey breast or thighs
– 1 cup wood chips (such as hickory or apple)
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. Season the turkey with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
3. Smoke the turkey for 4-5 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
4. In a small saucepan, combine maple syrup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and 1/4 cup water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Brush the turkey with the maple glaze during the last 30 minutes of smoking.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (smoking) + 10 minutes (glaze preparation)
Wild Turkey Chili with Black Beans
A hearty, bold twist on traditional chili, this recipe combines the flavors of wild turkey sausage and black beans for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb wild turkey sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups cooked black beans
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Brown the sausage in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the black beans, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and water. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 30 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Slow-Cooked Wild Turkey Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect way to enjoy the rich flavors of wild turkey during the colder months. With its blend of tender meat, earthy vegetables, and aromatic spices, it’s sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless wild turkey breast or thighs
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the turkey with salt, pepper, and thyme.
2. In a slow cooker, combine the turkey, onions, garlic, carrots, potatoes, and mushrooms.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and red wine (if using).
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Grilled Wild Turkey Breast with Citrus Marinade
This recipe combines the rich flavor of wild turkey breast with the brightness of citrus, perfect for a summer evening.
Ingredients:
– 4 (6 oz) wild turkey breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, lemon juice, garlic, and thyme.
3. Place turkey breasts in a shallow dish and pour marinade over them. Let sit for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Remove turkey from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Brush both sides of turkey with olive oil. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F.
6. Let turkey rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Wild Turkey and Mushroom Risotto
Experience the bold flavors of wild turkey and earthy mushrooms in this hearty risotto dish.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
• 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 ounces Wild Turkey Bourbon Whiskey (yes, you read that right!)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add Arborio rice and stir to coat with oil. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
3. Add white wine (if using) and cook until absorbed, stirring frequently.
4. Add warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in sliced mushrooms and thyme. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes or until mushrooms are tender.
6. Stir in Wild Turkey Bourbon Whiskey and cook for 1 minute.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-35 minutes
Jerk-Spiced Wild Turkey Legs
Elevate your game day spread with the bold flavors of Jamaica and the wild taste of turkey legs. This recipe combines the classic jerk seasoning with the richness of wild turkey, resulting in a dish that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 wild turkey legs
– 1/2 cup jerk seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, brown sugar, and garlic.
3. Place turkey legs in a large bowl and rub the jerk mixture all over them, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the turkey legs and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Wild Turkey Pot Pie with Flaky Crust
This hearty pot pie is a perfect blend of savory wild turkey, rich gravy, and flaky crust, making it an ideal dish for a cozy evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked wild turkey breast or thighs
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 egg, beaten
– 2 cups puff pastry, thawed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add the cooked wild turkey, mixed vegetables, flour, chicken broth, heavy cream, and beaten egg. Cook for 5 minutes or until heated through.
4. Roll out one puff pastry sheet to fit your baking dish. Place the turkey mixture in the center of the dough.
5. Roll out the second puff pastry sheet and place on top of the filling. Crimp edges to seal.
6. Brush with beaten egg and cut a few slits for steam to escape.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pan-Seared Wild Turkey with Rosemary Gravy
Elevate your dinner game with this hearty and aromatic dish that combines the rich flavor of wild turkey with the pungency of rosemary. This pan-seared masterpiece is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 pound) wild turkey breast, skin removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the turkey breast with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the turkey for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned.
4. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes.
6. In the same skillet, add the chopped rosemary, sliced onion, and minced garlic. Cook over medium heat until the vegetables are softened.
7. Add the chicken broth and butter to the skillet. Stir until the gravy thickens.
8. Serve the pan-seared turkey with the rosemary gravy spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Wild Turkey and Sausage Gumbo
Get ready to warm up with this hearty and flavorful Wild Turkey and Sausage Gumbo, perfect for a cold winter’s day. This twist on the classic Southern dish combines the rich flavors of wild turkey sausage with the warmth of whiskey and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb wild turkey sausage, sliced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup long-grain rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup Wild Turkey Bourbon
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Filé powder (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onions, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in rice, chicken broth, Wild Turkey Bourbon, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions and a dash of filé powder if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Braised Wild Turkey with Root Vegetables
A hearty and comforting dish that pairs the rich flavor of wild turkey with the natural sweetness of root vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless wild turkey breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 parsnips, peeled and chopped
– 1 large potato, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the turkey and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add the onion, garlic, carrots, parsnips, and potato. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 20-25 minutes.
4. Add the chicken broth and white wine (if using) to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Return the turkey to the pot and bring mixture to a simmer.
6. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise for 1 1/2 hours or until the turkey is cooked through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Wild Turkey Tacos with Avocado Crema
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with this recipe that combines tender wild turkey breast with creamy avocado crema and crunchy taco toppings. Perfect for a unique dinner or game-day gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb wild turkey breast, cooked and shredded
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, crumbled queso fresco
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine avocado, lime juice, and garlic.
2. Stir in sour cream until smooth.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos by placing turkey breast on a warmed tortilla, topping with avocado crema, and adding desired toppings.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Wild Turkey Noodle Soup with Fresh Herbs
This hearty soup combines the warmth of wild turkey sausage with the brightness of fresh herbs, perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch. A flavorful and comforting option to enjoy on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb wild turkey sausage, casings removed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 8 oz egg noodles
– 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the sausage in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
2. Remove the sausage from the pot with a slotted spoon and set aside. Leave the drippings in the pot.
3. Add the chicken broth, carrots, celery, onion, and noodles to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in the cooked sausage, parsley, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Wild Turkey Stir-Fry with Peppers
A flavorful and spicy twist on traditional stir-fries, this recipe combines the richness of wild turkey sausage with the crunch of bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb wild turkey sausage, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the sliced turkey sausage and cook for 2-3 minutes, until browned.
4. Add the bell peppers and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until tender.
5. Stir in soy sauce, cumin, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute to combine flavors.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
8. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Wild Turkey and Wild Rice Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the earthy flavors of wild rice with the richness of wild turkey, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion. With its satisfying combination of textures and bold flavors, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked wild turkey breast, diced
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), sliced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion, garlic, and mushrooms until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, combine cooked wild rice, diced turkey, chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the cooked vegetables and stir to combine.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Barbecue-Glazed Wild Turkey Drumsticks
Get ready to elevate your backyard BBQ game with these tender and flavorful wild turkey drumsticks smothered in a rich barbecue glaze. Perfect for a summer gathering or casual dinner, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 wild turkey drumsticks
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together barbecue sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place drumsticks in a shallow baking dish and brush with the glaze.
4. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until cooked through, basting with remaining glaze every 10-15 minutes.
5. Remove from oven and let rest for 5-7 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Wild Turkey Kebabs with Chimichurri Sauce
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with these bold and flavorful wild turkey kebabs, paired with a tangy and herby chimichurri sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound wild turkey breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chimichurri sauce (see below for recipe)
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Chimichurri Sauce:
– 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh oregano, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and smoked paprika. Add turkey pieces and toss to coat.
3. Thread turkey onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill kebabs for 10-12 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve with chimichurri sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-24 minutes
Wild Turkey and Dumplings Comfort Stew
A hearty and warming stew that combines the rich flavors of wild turkey with tender dumplings, perfect for a cozy evening in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless wild turkey breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 dumpling mix packets (follow package instructions)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add turkey and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Sprinkle flour over mixture; cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually stir in broth and milk; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low; simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until turkey is cooked through.
6. Add dumpling mix packets according to package instructions and continue to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until dumplings are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to ruffle some feathers with these 18 mouthwatering wild turkey recipes! From classic dishes like Herb-Roasted Wild Turkey with Garlic Butter and Slow-Cooked Wild Turkey Stew, to international inspirations like Jerk-Spiced Wild Turkey Legs and Spicy Wild Turkey Stir-Fry with Peppers, there’s something for every adventurous cook. Try your hand at Smoked Wild Turkey with Maple Glaze or Pan-Seared Wild Turkey with Rosemary Gravy for a taste of sophistication. And don’t forget comfort food classics like Braised Wild Turkey with Root Vegetables and Wild Turkey Noodle Soup with Fresh Herbs. Your taste buds will be gobbling up these delicious recipes in no time!