This Slow Cooker Crockpot Turkey Necks recipe is seasoned to perfection and then slow cooked to produce tender, juicy, fall-off-the-bone meat. This is a classic Southern meal perfect for holidays and Sunday dinners.
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What Are Turkey Necks
The turkey neck is the part of the turkey that is made up of bones and meat, the small pieces at the bottom. It can be used to make soups, stews, broth, or roasted to enjoy as an amazing main dish for a meal.
When you grab them in the store, they usually come in packs of three or more. The necks don’t have any feathers. Oftentimes, when purchased the neck, is cut into pieces. My grocer provides a full neck. Once you get these in the Crockpot, they are tender, delicious, and will fall off the bone.
Where to Find Them
I find them readily available in local grocery stores. You can also check specialty markets, even some Asian grocery stores.
How to Make Slow Cooker Crockpot Turkey Necks
Detailed measurements and full instructions can be found in the recipe card at the bottom of this post.
- Pat the turkey necks dry. Drizzle both sides of the necks with olive oil and then sprinkle the spices onto both sides of the necks.
- Pour the broth into the bottom of the slow cooker. Place the seasoned turkey necks over the broth.
- Slow cook.
Cook Time/How Long to Cook
You want to cook them for however long it takes to get tender. This is typically 4-5 hours on High or 7-8 hours on Low.
How to Tell When the Turkey is Done
You will need to use a meat thermometer. Insert the meat thermometer into the thickest part of the neck. According to the USDA, Poultry must be cooked to a minimum internal temperature of 165 degrees.
Can You Use Turkey Legs or Turkey Wings?
Check out my Slow Cooker Crockpot Turkey Legs and Slow Cooker Crockpot Turkey Wings recipes.
How to Store Them
Cooked turkey necks can be stored in the fridge tightly covered for 3-4 days.
Freezer Tips
You can freeze leftover necks tightly covered and sealed. For best taste, they will last up to 3 months. Defrost the turkey necks overnight in the fridge and reheat.
Pair With These Side Dishes
Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Ranch Mashed Potatoes
Southern Green Beans
Southern Collard Greens
Baked Corn on the Cob
Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes
Slow Cooker Crockpot Neck Bones
Slow Cooker Crockpot Black Eyed Peas
Slow Cooker Crockpot Oxtails
More Turkey and Poultry Recipes
Baked Turkey Wings
Smothered Turkey Wings
Air Fryer Turkey Wings
Smoked Turkey Wings
Traeger Smoked Turkey
Slow Cooker Crockpot Duck
Crockpot Slow Cooker Bone-in Turkey Breast
Slow Cooker Crockpot Boneless Turkey Breast
Slow Cooker Crockpot Turkey Necks
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 – 2 pounds raw turkey necks Not smoked or previously cooked.
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1/2 tablespoon Creole Seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup broth Any broth, turkey, chicken, vegetable, etc.
Instructions
- Pat the turkey necks dry. Drizzle both sides of the necks with olive oil and then sprinkle the spices onto both sides of the necks.
- Pour the broth into the bottom of the slow cooker. Place the seasoned turkey necks over the broth.
- Cook on High for 4-5 hours or on low for 7-8 hours. (I prefer to cook them on Low for really tender turkey). Ensure the turkey reaches an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees. Use a meat thermometer.
- Remove the turkey necks from the slow cooker. (Be careful! They will be tender and may fall off the bone.)
Nikki
Friday 3rd of March 2023
Very easy and delicious!!!!
staysnatched
Tuesday 7th of March 2023
Glad to hear it!