As the weather cools down, our taste buds crave hearty and comforting meals that warm our bellies and souls. One often-overlooked ingredient that can elevate a dish to new heights is the humble turkey neck. Rich in flavor and tender when cooked low and slow, turkey necks are the perfect addition to many recipes. In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious and varied ways to cook with turkey necks on your stovetop. From classic braises and soups to more adventurous creations like pho and jambalaya, there’s something for everyone in this collection of flavorful turkey neck recipes.
Savory Braised Turkey Necks with Garlic and Herbs
Transform tender turkey necks into a rich, flavorful dish perfect for cold winter nights or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 turkey necks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Sear the turkey necks until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Remove the necks and set aside. Reduce heat to medium; add garlic, rosemary, and thyme. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add chicken broth and white wine (if using). Stir to combine.
6. Return the turkey necks to the pot; cover with a lid.
7. Braise in the preheated oven for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender and falls off the bone.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Spicy Cajun Turkey Neck Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew that showcases the rich flavors of Cajun cuisine, perfect for a chilly evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 turkey neck (about 2 lbs), cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup dark roux (see note)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add turkey neck pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to pot; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
5. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, browned turkey neck, salt, and black pepper to pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 2-3 hours or until meat is tender.
6. Stir in dark roux and continue to simmer for an additional 30 minutes.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Note: To make dark roux, combine 1/4 cup all-purpose flour with 1/4 cup vegetable oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring constantly, until mixture turns dark brown and has a nutty aroma, about 5 minutes.
Slow-Cooked Turkey Necks in Rich Gravy
A comforting, fall-apart tender turkey neck recipe infused with rich and savory gravy, perfect for a hearty family meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 turkey necks
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until softened. Add turkey necks and cook until browned on all sides.
3. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker, adding flour, chicken broth, milk, and butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Serve turkey necks with rich gravy spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Turkey Neck and Vegetable Soup
A comforting and flavorful soup made with tender turkey neck, mixed vegetables, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) turkey neck, cut into large pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot or 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, garlic, carrots, celery, and thyme. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8-10 minutes.
4. Add the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the turkey is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Southern-Style Smothered Turkey Necks
A classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for a hearty meal or special occasion, these smothered turkey necks are slow-cooked to perfection in a rich and flavorful gravy.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 turkey necks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the turkey necks on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove the necks from the pot and set aside.
3. Add chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, and thyme. Stir to combine.
5. Return the turkey necks to the pot, cover, and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until the meat is tender and falls off the bone.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Turkey Neck Gumbo with Okra and Sausage
A hearty and flavorful gumbo recipe that combines the rich flavors of turkey neck, okra, and sausage for a truly satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb turkey neck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup okra, sliced
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add turkey neck, okra, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Stir in chicken broth and diced tomatoes.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until meat is tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Herb-Infused Turkey Neck Broth
This savory broth is perfect for using up turkey necks and infusing them with a blend of aromatic herbs. It’s great for cooking grains, soups, or as a base for sauces.
Ingredients:
– 1 turkey neck
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
– 2 sprigs of fresh parsley
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 cups of water
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine turkey neck, carrots, celery, thyme, parsley, and garlic.
3. Pour in the water, making sure that all the ingredients are covered.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
5. Braise for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender and falls off the bone.
6. Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot, discarding the solids.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Turkey Neck and Bean Stew
A hearty and comforting stew that combines the rich flavor of turkey neck with creamy beans, perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound turkey neck, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed white and kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the turkey neck pieces in a little bit of oil until browned.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the mixed beans, chicken broth, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the turkey neck is tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Turkey Neck Skillet
A hearty one-pot meal that’s perfect for a cozy evening in. This recipe combines the sweetness of caramelized onions with the savory flavor of turkey neck, all wrapped up in a rich and satisfying skillet.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 lbs turkey neck, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup caramelized onion jam (or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the turkey neck and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and add the sliced onions. Cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden, about 20-25 minutes.
4. Add the cooked turkey neck back into the skillet with the onions, along with salt, pepper, chicken broth, and caramelized onion jam.
5. Stir everything together and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Turkey Neck Pho with Rice Noodles
A hearty and aromatic Vietnamese-inspired noodle soup, this recipe combines the richness of turkey neck meat with the comfort of rice noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound turkey neck bones
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup rice noodles
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions, for garnish
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine turkey neck bones, chicken broth, fish sauce, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. 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 mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot, discarding solids.
4. Serve hot, topped with cooked rice noodles, chopped scallions, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Tomato-Braised Turkey Necks with Fresh Basil
This recipe transforms humble turkey necks into a rich and flavorful main course, perfect for special occasions or cozy weeknight dinners. Aromatic tomatoes and fresh basil add depth and brightness to the dish.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 turkey necks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 sprigs fresh basil, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season turkey necks with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown turkey necks on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add cherry tomatoes, chicken broth, and white wine (if using) to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return turkey necks to the pot, cover, and transfer to preheated oven.
7. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until turkey is tender and falling off the bone.
8. Remove from oven and stir in chopped fresh basil.
9. Serve hot, garnished with additional basil if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Turkey Neck and Potato Hash
A hearty and comforting dish perfect for a chilly evening, Turkey Neck and Potato Hash combines the rich flavors of roasted turkey neck with the earthy sweetness of potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) turkey neck
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the turkey neck with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper until coated.
3. Place the turkey neck on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 45 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Meanwhile, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
6. Add the diced potatoes to the skillet and cook for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown, stirring occasionally.
7. Slice the roasted turkey neck into thick strips and add it to the potato mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Creole-Style Turkey Neck Jambalaya
Experience the rich flavors of Louisiana with this hearty jambalaya dish, featuring tender turkey neck and a medley of spices. Perfect for a family gathering or casual dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 lb) turkey neck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp Creole seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add turkey neck, onion, celery, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add diced tomatoes, rice, chicken broth, Creole seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until turkey is tender and rice is cooked.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions and crusty bread on the side.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Turkey Neck and Collard Greens Simmer
This hearty simmer combines tender turkey neck with nutrient-rich collard greens, perfect for a comforting and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb turkey neck, cut into large pieces
– 2 cups collard greens, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large Dutch oven or pot, combine turkey neck pieces, collard greens, chicken broth, onion, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 2-3 hours or until the turkey is tender and the greens are cooked through.
3. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Turkey Neck Chili with Black Beans
This hearty chili recipe combines the rich flavor of turkey neck meat with the creamy texture of black beans, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Turkey Neck Meat (ground or chopped)
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves Garlic, minced
– 1 can Black Beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can Diced Tomatoes
– 1 cup Chicken Broth
– 1 tsp Chili Powder
– Salt and Pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or other hot peppers for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the turkey neck meat in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in chili powder and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the black beans, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add jalapenos or other hot peppers for an extra kick.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Garlic Butter Turkey Neck Pasta
This comforting pasta dish combines the rich flavors of garlic butter with tender turkey neck, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as pappardelle or fettuccine)
– 1 lb. turkey neck, cooked and shredded
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp. unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add cooked turkey neck to the skillet, stirring to combine with garlic butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with turkey mixture. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired creaminess.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top and toss to combine.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey Neck and Mushroom Ragout
Turkey Neck and Mushroom Ragout Recipe
A hearty and comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of turkey neck with sautéed mushrooms and vegetables, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound turkey neck, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup red wine
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the turkey neck pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove the turkey from the pot and set aside.
4. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
6. Add the garlic, chicken broth, red wine, and thyme. Stir to combine.
7. Return the turkey neck pieces to the pot and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Asian-Inspired Soy-Glazed Turkey Necks
Elevate your turkey neck game with this sweet and savory Asian-inspired recipe, perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 turkey necks (about 1 pound each)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, vegetable oil, garlic, and ginger.
3. Add the turkey necks to the marinade and toss to coat.
4. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
5. Remove the turkey necks from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Place the turkey necks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through and caramelized.
8. Drizzle with sesame oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to warm up with these 18 flavorful turkey neck recipes cooked on the stove! From hearty stews and soups to comforting skillet meals and broths, these dishes are sure to become new favorites. Try slow-cooked turkey necks in rich gravy, spicy Cajun turkey neck stew, or savory braised turkey necks with garlic and herbs. You’ll also find creative twists like caramelized onion and turkey neck skillet, and Asian-inspired soy-glazed turkey necks. With these recipes, you’ll never tire of turkey neck’s versatility and comforting goodness.
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