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Plate of smothered turkey necks topped with savory brown gravy, served with creamy mashed potatoes, collard greens, and a slice of golden cornbread, steaming hot in a cozy Southern kitchen.

Smothered Turkey Necks

Lina
Discover the rich, savory flavors of Smothered Turkey Necks! A soul food classic, slow-cooked to perfection for a hearty, comforting meal everyone will love.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Main Dish
Cuisine Soul Food, Southern
Servings 6 Peopel
Calories 340 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Turkey Necks:

  • 2 lbs fresh turkey necks cleaned and trimmed
  • 1 tbsp Creole seasoning
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Gravy:

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter or turkey fat
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour for roux
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup diced onion
  • 1 cup diced celery
  • 1 cup diced bell pepper green preferred
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 bay leaf
  • ½ tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • Optional: ¼ cup beer or white wine for deglazing

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Necks

  • Clean and trim the turkey necks. Pat dry and season with Creole seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
  • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a splash of oil. Sear the turkey necks until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Gravy

  • In the same skillet, melt butter and whisk in the flour to create a roux. Stir constantly until it turns a caramel brown color (about 10 minutes).
  • Slowly whisk in chicken broth, ensuring no lumps form. Add Worcestershire sauce and optional beer or wine to deglaze the pan.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

  • Add the diced onion, celery, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the gravy. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened.
  • Stir in thyme and a bay leaf for aromatic depth.

Step 4: Slow Cook the Turkey Necks

  • Stovetop Braising: Return turkey necks to the skillet. Cover and simmer on low heat for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
  • Slow Cooker: Transfer turkey necks and gravy to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-6 hours.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

  • Discard the bay leaf. Adjust seasoning if needed.
  • Serve smothered turkey necks over mashed potatoes, rice, or cornbread, and drizzle with the rich gravy.

Cooking Tips:

  • Marinate: For extra flavor, marinate the turkey necks for 2-4 hours before cooking.
  • Texture: To avoid lumps in the gravy, whisk continuously when making the roux.
  • Tenderness Test: The meat should fall off the bone when fully cooked.

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving):

  • Calories: 340 kcal
  • Protein: 21 g
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Iron: 2.1 mg
  • Sodium: 520 mg
Keyword Smothered Turkey Necks, Southern Comfort Food