18 Savory Turkey Neck Recipes on Stove for Comforting Meals
As the temperatures drop, our taste buds crave comfort food that warms the soul. One often-overlooked ingredient can help achieve this: turkey necks! These humble pieces of poultry can be transformed into a rich and satisfying stew or braise, perfect for a cozy night in with family or friends. In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious turkey neck recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From spicy Cajun stews to slow-cooked braises in rich gravy, these recipes showcase the versatility of turkey necks on the stove.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for inspiration, these savory turkey neck recipes will guide you through the process of creating mouthwatering meals that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. So why not give it a try and discover the delightful flavors waiting to be unlocked in your kitchen? Stay tuned for our first recipe, Braised Turkey Necks with Onions and Garlic!
Braised Turkey Necks with Onions and Garlic
Braised Turkey Necks with Onions and Garlic: A Hearty, Comforting Dish
This classic recipe is a staple of many cuisines, offering rich flavors and tender meat. It’s perfect for special occasions or cozy weeknight meals.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 turkey necks
– 2 large onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the turkey necks until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side.
3. Remove the turkey from the pot and set aside. Reduce heat to medium and add the chopped onions. Cook until they’re caramelized and golden, stirring occasionally, about 20-25 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, chicken broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, and thyme to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Return the turkey necks to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven. Braise for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender and falls apart easily.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Spicy Cajun Turkey Neck Stew
A hearty and aromatic stew that combines the rich flavors of turkey neck, cajun spices, and vegetables. This recipe is perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 turkey neck, 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 Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
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 minutes.
3. Remove the turkey from the pot and set aside.
4. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the garlic, bell pepper, Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
6. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and water to the pot. Stir to combine.
7. Return the turkey neck pieces to the pot and bring to a boil.
8. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour or until the turkey is tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Slow-Cooked Turkey Necks in Rich Gravy
Savor the rich flavors of tender turkey necks slow-cooked in a savory gravy, perfect for serving with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 turkey necks
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low heat.
2. Season turkey necks with salt and pepper.
3. In the slow cooker, combine chopped onion, minced garlic, beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, and thyme.
4. Add the seasoned turkey necks to the slow cooker.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
6. Remove turkey necks from the slow cooker and let them cool slightly.
7. Strain the gravy through a fine-mesh sieve into a serving bowl, discarding solids.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Turkey Neck and Potato Simmer
This hearty stew is a perfect way to warm up on a chilly day, featuring tender turkey neck pieces and creamy potatoes in a rich broth. This comforting dish is also an excellent way to make use of leftover turkey or neck parts.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound turkey neck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the turkey neck pieces, garlic, and thyme. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Add the cubed potatoes and continue to simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Herb-Infused Turkey Neck Soup
Soften your senses with this comforting, slow-cooked soup that showcases the rich flavors of turkey neck and aromatic herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 turkey neck (about 2 lbs), cut into 2-inch pieces
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
– 2 sprigs of fresh sage
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine turkey neck pieces, chicken broth, carrots, celery, thyme, sage, and bay leaf.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 1 1/2 hours, or until the turkey is tender.
3. Remove the pot from the heat and let it cool slightly. Strain the soup through a fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl, discarding the solids.
4. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Southern-Style Smothered Turkey Necks
A classic Southern comfort food, smothered turkey necks are a staple of soulful cooking. This recipe yields tender, flavorful meat that’s perfect for serving with mashed potatoes, rice, or over biscuits.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 turkey necks
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 bay leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
3. Brown turkey necks on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add chicken broth, brown sugar, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Return turkey necks to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Braise for 2-3 hours or until meat is tender and falls off the bone.
8. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Turkey Neck and Collard Greens Stew
This hearty stew is a soulful fusion of tender turkey neck, rich greens, and comforting spices, perfect for a cozy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb turkey neck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 cups collard greens, chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot 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, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour, or until the turkey is tender.
6. Stir in the chopped collard greens and cook until wilted, about 10-15 minutes.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Tomato-Based Turkey Neck Ragout
Savor a hearty and flavorful stew with this simple recipe that combines tender turkey neck, rich tomatoes, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) turkey neck, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh or canned crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 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 minutes.
3. Remove the turkey from the pot and set aside. Reduce heat to medium.
4. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
6. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and thyme. Bring to a simmer.
7. Return the turkey neck pieces to the pot, cover, and let cook for 1-2 hours or until tender.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 1-2 hours
Turkey Neck and Bean Medley
Turkey Neck and Bean Medley: A hearty, comforting dish that combines tender turkey neck with a flavorful medley of beans and aromatics.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-pound) turkey neck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 can (15 ounces) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 ounces) white navy beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, combine turkey neck pieces, onion, garlic, red kidney beans, white navy beans, chicken broth, tomato paste, and thyme.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
5. Braise for 2-1/2 hours, or until turkey neck is tender and falls apart easily.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Garlic Butter Turkey Neck Skillet
A flavorful and savory skillet meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe highlights the rich taste of turkey neck, elevated by aromatic garlic butter.
Ingredients:
– 2 turkey necks, bone-in
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add turkey necks and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove turkey from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium; add remaining 1 tablespoon of butter, garlic, onion, carrots, and potatoes. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
4. Return turkey necks to the skillet and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes or until turkey is cooked through.
Cooking Time: About 30-35 minutes
Turkey Neck Pho-Inspired Broth
Elevate your soups and stews with this rich and flavorful Turkey Neck Pho-Inspired Broth, infused with the deep umami of turkey neck and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole turkey neck (about 2 lbs)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place turkey neck on a roasting pan and roast for 30 minutes.
3. Add chicken broth, carrots, celery, garlic, onion, thyme, and bay leaf to the roasting pan.
4. Continue roasting for an additional 1 hour, or until the turkey neck is tender and falls apart easily.
5. Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve into a large pot. Discard solids.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Red Wine Braised Turkey Necks
This recipe transforms humble turkey necks into a tender and juicy main course, perfect for a special occasion or cozy night in. The rich flavors of red wine, aromatics, and spices meld together to create a hearty dish that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 turkey necks
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season turkey necks with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, brown the turkey necks in a little oil until golden.
4. Add onion, garlic, red wine, chicken broth, and tomato paste to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise for 2-3 hours, or until the meat is tender and falls-apart easy.
6. Remove from heat and let rest before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Turkey Neck and Mushroom Saute
A hearty and savory sauté that showcases the rich flavors of turkey neck and earthy mushrooms. Perfect as a side dish or added to rice or pasta for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb turkey neck, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the turkey neck pieces and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add the chopped onion. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Return the turkey neck pieces to the skillet and stir to combine with the mushroom mixture.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the turkey is cooked through.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Jamaican Curry Turkey Neck Pot
This hearty and flavorful pot combines tender turkey neck with aromatic spices and a hint of sweetness, perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb turkey neck, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add turkey neck, curry powder, cumin, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, water, and brown sugar.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until turkey is tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Turkey Neck and Lentil Stew
This comforting stew is perfect for a chilly evening, packed with the rich flavor of turkey neck and the wholesome goodness of lentils.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound turkey neck, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable 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, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the turkey neck pieces and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 45-50 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Turkey Neck Gumbo with Okra
This hearty gumbo recipe combines tender turkey neck meat with the creamy texture of okra, creating a rich and flavorful stew perfect for any occasion. With its deep, dark roux base and subtle spice notes, this dish is sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb turkey necks
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup okra, sliced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 2 tablespoons filé powder (optional)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high heat. Brown turkey necks on all sides, then set aside.
2. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in okra, chicken broth, water, filé powder (if using), and paprika. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until turkey is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over rice.
Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours
Turkey Neck and Barley Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of rich flavors and tender texture, made with the humble turkey neck and wholesome barley. Serve it warm on a chilly day for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb turkey neck
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup pearled barley
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the turkey neck in the oven for 30 minutes, or until browned.
3. In a large pot, combine roasted turkey neck, chicken broth, barley, onion, garlic, and thyme.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour, or until barley is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Turkey Neck Adobo with Soy and Vinegar
A twist on the classic Filipino dish, this recipe adds a savory and tangy flavor profile with the addition of soy sauce and vinegar.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb turkey neck pieces (or substitute with chicken or pork)
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon black pepper
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine turkey neck pieces, soy sauce, vinegar, fish sauce (if using), garlic, and black pepper.
2. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
3. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
4. Remove turkey from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Place turkey on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Discover the versatility of turkey necks! This article presents 18 savory recipe ideas that will elevate your cooking game. From slow-cooked stews to skillet dishes and soups, these comforting meals are perfect for any time of year. Try braising turkey necks with onions and garlic, or slow-cooking them in a rich gravy. Alternatively, explore international flavors like Jamaican curry, Cajun stew, and pho-inspired broth. Whether you’re looking for a hearty main course or a satisfying side dish, these recipes will guide you to creating mouthwatering meals that are sure to please.
