Smothered Turkey Necks Recipe
This Southern-style turkey necks recipe is simmered low and slow with bold Cajun seasoning, garlic, and peppers until the meat is fall-off-the-bone tender. It’s a rich, comforting meal perfect for Sundays or anytime you need something soulful and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 4 lbs turkey necks washed and trimmed
- 4 tbsp neutral oil divided
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried sage
- 1 tsp celery seed optional
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper
- 32 oz turkey broth or chicken broth or enough to nearly cover necks
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 small onion diced
- 1 green bell pepper diced
- 4 garlic cloves minced
Instructions
- Rub 2 tbsp oil and all the spices (except bay leaves) onto turkey necks. Let marinate 15+ minutes.
- In a large pot over medium-high heat, sear necks for 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- Add onion and bell pepper to pot. Cook 5-6 minutes over medium heat.
- Add garlic and bay leaves. Stir and cook 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Return turkey necks to pot. Pour in broth to nearly cover. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low. Cover and simmer 3 hours or until tender.
- Discard bay leaves. Serve hot over mashed potatoes or rice with a green vegetable.