Turkey necks are a delicious and flavorful cut of meat that can be cooked in a variety of ways. One of the easiest and most convenient methods is using a crockpot, which allows the turkey necks to slow cook and become tender while infusing them with flavor.To cook, you have to marinade the turkey first and then put the turkey neck In the slow cooker. Then prepare the sauce and cook for 6-8 hours on low.
In this guide, we’ll provide step-by-step instructions on how to prepare and cook turkey necks in a crockpot, as well as tips and tricks to make the process as easy and delicious as possible. Let’s get started!
To know more about it read the article – how long to cook neckbones in crockpot on high.
How to Cook Turkey Necks In Crock Pot?
Cooking turkey necks in a crock pot requires a few ingredients and some easy steps. Within a few hours, you’ll be able to get a very delicious, tender, and comforting meal with your side dish. So, here’s the process you can make your delicious smoked turkey necks-
Ingredients
- 4 lbs regular turkey necks
- 2 tbsp salt
- 2 tbsp black pepper
- 2 large onions chopped
- 5 cloves of garlic chopped
- 1 1/2 tbsp dried thyme
- 3 stalks of celery chopped
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 3 cups of chicken turkey or beef broth
- Brown Gravy Mix
Cooking Directions
Step 1: Clean The Neck First
Make sure that your turkey neck is completely clean, and out of the blood. If it was on the package, just give it a rinse and place it in a large bowl.
Step 2: Seasoning Time
Take all the seasoning items like salt, pepper, and dried thyme and mix them. Press all the spices into the tenderloin pieces and coat well. Sprinkle all these seasonings on the turkey neck. Keep the turkey in a ziplock bag or air-tight box for one hour before cooking. I always marinade overnight, but you can do 1-2 hours.
Step 3: Prepare The Veggies
Pour 2 tbsp vegetable oil into the skillet or pan and heat it on medium heat. After the boil is heated add onion and celebrant the oil and cook it until the veggies get a little color. Then, throw the garlic and stir a few times.
Step 4: Place The Necks In The Crock Pot
Grab your crock pot and place the turkey inside the pot at the bottom. Then add the fried veggies to it. Take the gravy mix and sprinkle over the necks and lastly pour the broth.
Step 5: Cooking Time
Close the lid and turn the cooker on. It’ll be done within 4 hours in high heat and 6 hours in low heat. Take out the neck before serving for 10 minutes and serve with rice or mashed potatoes!
Besides, Do you want to learn How to Cook Chitterlings in a Crock Pot? – What’s the Process? read this article!
How Long to Cook Smoked Turkey Necks In Crock Pot?
It takes time according to the quantity of turkey neck you use. Most of the time it takes 6-8 hours to cook in low heat and serve the mouth-watering delicious turkey neck. For high heat, it takes like 4 hours. By this time, you’ll get your tender and juicy smoked turkey neck.
The turkey neck contains dark meat, so it takes quite a lot of time to cook properly. So, if you want to cook it faster the meat will be stiff and rubbery. To make it tender and juicy, cook it slowly in a crock pot. Serve your juicy smoked turkey necks with mashed potato or white plain rice!
Some excellent Side dishes of turkey neck!
If you are looking for some side dishes that pair with your turkey neck then here are some of my favorite options:
- Mashed Potatoes: This classic side dish goes well with just about anything, and is a must-have with a turkey neck.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet and juicy, corn on the cob is a great way to add some color and variety to your meal.
- Plain Rice: By far one of the most popular side dishes for turkey necks, simply boil some rice and enjoy it with your smothered turkey necks!
- Green Beans: Another classic side dish, green beans are the perfect complement to the rich flavors of turkey neck.
FAQs
Can I cook turkey necks in the oven instead of a crockpot?
Yes, you can cook turkey necks in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F, season the necks with your favorite spices, and place them in a roasting pan. Cook for 1.5 to 2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
How do I store leftover cooked turkey necks?
Once the turkey necks have cooled down, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. You can also freeze them for up to three months.
What can I do with leftover turkey necks?
You can use leftover turkey necks to make flavorful broth or stock for soups, stews, and gravies. Simply simmer the necks in water with vegetables and spices for several hours, strain the liquid, and use it as a base for your recipe.
Can I cook frozen turkey necks in a crockpot?
It’s not recommended to cook frozen turkey necks in a crockpot. Thaw them first in the refrigerator or by using the defrost function on your microwave. Cooking frozen meat in a crockpot can increase the risk of bacterial growth and result in uneven cooking.
How can I tell if the turkey necks are fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey necks. They should reach 165°F to be fully cooked and safe to eat. Another way to check is to see if the meat easily falls off the bone. If it does, it’s likely fully cooked.
Verdict
That’s all about how to cook turkey necks in the crock pot?
You see, you don’t need to be a pro to do it. Just follow the instructions and make sure you maintain the cooking time and setting. I hope you understand everything. Good Luck!
