How Long to Bake Turkey Necks at 350
Discover how long to bake turkey necks at 350 for tender, juicy results. Simple tips, seasoning ideas, and pro tricks for a delicious, flavorful dish!
Ingredients
Turkey necks (2–3 pounds): Fresh or thawed for the best results.
Olive oil or melted butter (2 tablespoons): Helps keep the meat moist while adding richness.
Seasonings of your choice: A classic combination includes salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Adjust to your taste!
Fresh herbs (optional): Rosemary, thyme, or parsley for a burst of freshness.
Vegetables (optional): Chopped carrots, onions, and celery can be added to the baking dish for extra flavor and a ready-made side dish.
Broth or water (½ cup): Keeps the turkey necks moist as they bake and enhances the flavor
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 350°F and allow it to preheat fully. This ensures an even cooking environment and helps the turkey necks bake consistently.
Prep the Turkey Necks
- Rinse the turkey necks under cool water and pat them dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps the seasonings adhere better.
- Coat the necks lightly with olive oil or melted butter for added richness and to lock in moisture.
Season Thoroughly
- Season the necks generously with your favorite spices. A tried-and-true mix includes salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- Want extra depth? Add a pinch of cayenne for heat or a dash of smoked paprika for a subtle smokiness.
Arrange in a Baking Dish
- Lay the seasoned necks in a single layer in a deep baking dish or roasting pan.
- For added flavor and a built-in side, surround the necks with chopped vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions.
- Pour ½ cup of broth or water into the dish. This keeps the necks moist and creates a flavorful base for drippings.
Bake to Perfection
- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam and prevent the meat from drying out.
- Bake for 2 to 2½ hours, depending on the size of the necks. The goal is fork-tender meat that easily pulls away from the bone.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer—it should read 165°F.
Optional Step: Crisp the Edges
- For those who love a little crispiness, remove the foil during the last 15–20 minutes of baking. Let the necks brown slightly for a delightful texture contrast.
Quick Tip
- If you’re short on time, consider using a convection oven setting—it can reduce baking time slightly while still delivering great results.
Notes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
- Protein: 28g
- Total Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 4g
- Sodium: 480mg