When it comes to cooking with turkey, most people think of the breast or thighs. But what about the neck? Often overlooked and underutilized, turkey necks are actually a culinary treasure trove. Not only are they rich in flavor and tender, but they’re also incredibly versatile. From hearty stews and soups to crispy fried dishes and flavorful casseroles, there’s no shortage of creative ways to prepare turkey necks.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 21 delicious turkey neck recipes that are perfect for every occasion. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight meal or a show-stopping dish for a special event, we’ve got you covered. So grab your apron and get ready to discover the amazing world of turkey necks!
Slow Cooker Turkey Neck Stew
This slow cooker recipe is a perfect way to use up turkey necks, resulting in a deliciously rich and comforting stew. With minimal prep time and hands-off cooking, you’ll be enjoying a warm and satisfying meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 turkey necks (about 1 pound)
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 cup of chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the turkey necks with salt and pepper.
2. In a slow cooker, combine the chopped onion, minced garlic, carrots, celery, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and thyme.
3. Add the turkey necks on top of the vegetables.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours (low) or 2-6 hours (high)
Southern Fried Turkey Necks
Get ready to satisfy your cravings with this crispy and flavorful Southern-style fried turkey necks recipe. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, these mouthwatering morsels are sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 turkey necks
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each turkey neck into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat. Place coated necks on a plate or tray.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
5. Fry turkey necks in batches for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Turkey Neck Soup with Vegetables
This comforting soup is a perfect way to warm up on a chilly day. With the rich flavor of turkey neck and a medley of colorful vegetables, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound turkey neck
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine turkey neck, carrots, celery, and onion.
2. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour.
4. Add diced tomatoes and thyme; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Continue to simmer for an additional 30 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Braised Turkey Necks with Gravy
This recipe yields tender, flavorful turkey necks smothered in a rich and savory gravy, perfect for serving over mashed potatoes or egg noodles.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 turkey necks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown turkey necks on all sides, about 5 minutes per side.
3. Remove turkey from pot; set aside. Reduce heat to medium and sauté onion until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic, chicken broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, and thyme. Stir to combine.
5. Return turkey necks to the pot; cover and transfer to preheated oven. Braise for 2-3 hours or until tender.
6. Remove from heat; let cool slightly. Strain gravy through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl. Serve turkey necks with gravy spooned over.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Smoked Turkey Neck and Beans
Savor the rich flavors of slow-cooked turkey neck and beans in this hearty, comforting dish. Perfect for a chilly day or a family gathering, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) smoked turkey neck
– 1 cup dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or slow cooker, combine turkey neck, soaked navy beans, chopped onion, minced garlic, chicken broth, tomato paste, and cumin.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover the pot or slow cooker and cook for 8-10 hours or until the turkey is tender and falling apart.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Turkey Neck Gumbo
This hearty gumbo recipe is a staple of Southern cuisine, perfect for a cold winter’s night or any time you crave a rich and flavorful meal. Turkey neck adds a depth of flavor and tender texture that’s hard to resist.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb turkey neck
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup long-grain rice
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add turkey neck and brown on all sides, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove turkey and set aside. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Add paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken broth and browned turkey neck to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until turkey is tender.
5. Serve gumbo over rice, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Grilled Turkey Necks with BBQ Sauce
Elevate your backyard barbecue game with this easy and mouthwatering recipe for grilled turkey necks smothered in sweet and tangy BBQ sauce. Perfect for a summer cookout or a casual gathering, these tender and juicy turkey necks are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 turkey necks
– 1 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Rinse the turkey necks under cold water, pat dry with paper towels, and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the turkey necks for 5-7 minutes per side, or until slightly charred and cooked through.
4. Brush the BBQ sauce evenly over the turkey necks during the last minute of grilling.
5. Remove from grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Turkey Neck and Rice Casserole
This comforting casserole combines tender turkey neck, creamy rice, and savory seasonings for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 turkey neck, boned and cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 3 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook rice according to package instructions. Set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add turkey neck pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in cooked rice, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring mixture to a simmer.
6. Add turkey neck pieces back into the skillet and stir to combine.
7. Transfer casserole to a baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese (if using).
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Pressure Cooker Turkey Neck Chili
Looking for a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a chilly day? Look no further! This Pressure Cooker Turkey Neck Chili is a game-changer, packed with tender turkey neck, rich beans, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb turkey neck
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Add turkey neck, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, onion, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the pressure cooker.
2. Pour in chicken broth, making sure everything is covered.
3. Close lid and set valve to “sealing”.
4. Pressure cook on high for 20-25 minutes.
5. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro (optional).
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Turkey Neck Pho
A refreshing and flavorful Vietnamese noodle soup made with turkey neck meat, aromatic spices, and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound turkey neck, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 8 oz rice noodles
– Fresh cilantro, basil, and mint leaves for garnish
– Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine turkey neck, beef broth, fish sauce, soy sauce, ginger, cumin, cinnamon, and cardamom. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
2. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Strain the soup through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot, discarding solids.
4. Add cooked noodles to the soup and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with lime wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Turkey Neck and Dumplings
This classic Southern dish is a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening. Tender turkey neck, rich broth, and fluffy dumplings come together to create a warm and cozy bowl of goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) turkey neck
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup warm water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Rinse the turkey neck and place it in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot.
3. Add the chicken broth, butter, and salt. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
4. Simmer for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the turkey neck is tender.
5. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Add warm water and mix until a dough forms.
7. Drop small balls of dough into the pot, about 1/4 cup each.
8. Cover and simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until dumplings are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Curried Turkey Neck Stew
A hearty and aromatic stew that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe transforms the often-overlooked turkey neck into a tender and flavorful main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 turkey neck, rinsed and patted dry
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
– 2 cups turkey broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add turkey neck and cook until browned on all sides, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Add diced tomatoes and broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bring stew to a simmer and cook, covered, for 2-3 hours or until the turkey neck is tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours
Turkey Neck Tacos
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with this unique recipe that combines tender turkey neck meat with crispy taco shells and a medley of fresh toppings. Perfect for adventurous eaters and taco enthusiasts alike!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound turkey neck, boneless
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 taco shells
– Shredded lettuce
– Diced tomatoes
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar)
– Sour cream
– Salsa (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add turkey neck and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
4. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for an additional 20-25 minutes or until the meat is tender.
5. Shred the cooked turkey with two forks and season with cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Warm taco shells according to package instructions.
7. Assemble tacos by spooning shredded turkey onto a shell, followed by desired toppings.
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey Neck and Collard Greens
This hearty dish is a Southern classic that combines the rich flavors of turkey neck with the earthy sweetness of collard greens. A perfect one-pot meal for a cold winter’s day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb turkey neck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 cups fresh or frozen collard greens, chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the turkey neck pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the collard greens and chicken broth; bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 1-2 hours or until the turkey is tender.
Cooking Time: 1-2 hours
Turkey Neck Pasta Sauce
This hearty pasta sauce recipe uses turkey neck as a rich and flavorful base, perfect for those looking to add some excitement to their pasta dishes. With its deep, savory flavor profile, this sauce is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound turkey neck, cut into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the turkey neck pieces and cook until browned, about 10 minutes.
5. Add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the turkey neck is tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Turkey Neck and Potato Bake
A hearty, comforting casserole perfect for a chilly evening or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound turkey neck (or 2-3 pounds boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs), cut into 1-inch pieces
– 4-5 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the turkey pieces with the olive oil, chopped onion, garlic, and thyme.
3. Arrange half of the potato slices in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the turkey mixture.
4. Repeat the layers, starting with the remaining potatoes, then the turkey mixture.
5. Pour the chicken broth over the top layer of potatoes.
6. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour.
7. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 20-25 minutes
Turkey Neck Stir Fry
This recipe is a creative way to use up leftover turkey necks, resulting in a savory and aromatic stir-fry that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that’s both comforting and exotic.
Ingredients:
– 2 Turkey Necks (cooked and shredded)
– 1 tablespoon Vegetable Oil
– 1 Onion (thinly sliced)
– 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
– 1 cup Mixed Vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– 2 teaspoons Soy Sauce
– 1 teaspoon Grated Ginger
– Salt and Pepper to taste
– Scallions (chopped) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; stir-fry until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they’re tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the cooked turkey neck, soy sauce, and ginger. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey Neck and Lentil Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of rich flavors and nutritious ingredients. With the addition of turkey neck, this recipe offers a unique twist on traditional lentil soups.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound turkey neck, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the turkey neck, onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 5-7 minutes
Turkey Neck Jerky
Looking for a healthy and delicious snack that’s perfect for on-the-go? Try making Turkey Neck Jerky, a tasty and protein-rich treat that’s easy to make at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound turkey necks, cut into strips
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 150°F (65°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the turkey neck strips to the marinade and toss to coat evenly.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the turkey necks in a single layer.
5. Bake for 2-3 hours or until the jerky reaches your desired level of dryness.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Turkey Neck and Mushroom Risotto
This comforting risotto dish combines the rich flavors of turkey neck and mushrooms, perfect for a chilly winter evening. With its creamy texture and savory taste, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb turkey neck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add turkey neck and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet.
2. In the same skillet, add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms; cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously until absorbed before adding more.
6. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in butter and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Turkey Neck and Black Eyed Peas
This hearty dish combines the rich flavors of turkey neck with the creamy sweetness of black eyed peas, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound turkey neck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 cup dried black eyed peas, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, combine turkey neck, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour in chicken broth, making sure the meat is covered.
4. Bring mixture to a boil, then cover pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
5. Braise for 2-1/2 hours, or until turkey is tender and falling apart.
6. Remove from oven and add soaked black eyed peas.
7. Return pot to stovetop and simmer over medium heat for 30 minutes, or until peas are tender.
Cooking Time: 3-1/2 hours
Conclusion
Get ready to elevate your meal game with these mouth-watering turkey neck recipes! With 21 delicious and diverse options, there’s something for every occasion. From comforting soups and stews to smoky BBQ and spicy curries, you’ll never look at turkey necks the same way again. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty casserole or a quick and easy stir-fry, these recipes will inspire your culinary creativity and satisfy your cravings.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
