How Long To Cook Turkey Necks In A Crockpot For Tender, Juicy Meat

Turkey necks are an underrated and flavorful cut of meat that can be transformed into a delicious, tender dish when cooked properly. One of the best methods for achieving fall-off-the-bone turkey necks is by slow cooking them in a crockpot. Determining the right cook time is key to ensuring perfectly cooked turkey necks every time.

What Are Turkey Necks?

Turkey necks are the neck area of the turkey containing bones, cartilage, connective tissue, and meat. They consist of tough muscles and collagen that require slow, moist cooking to break down and become tender When cooked correctly, the meat pulls cleanly off the bones and delivers incredible flavor

Benefits of Cooking Turkey Necks in a Crockpot

Using a crockpot is one of the easiest and most effective ways to cook turkey necks. The slow, low heat gently breaks down the collagen and connective tissues over several hours, resulting in succulent, fall-apart meat. Other benefits include:

• Requires minimal preparation and monitoring during cooking
• Infuses the meat with aromatics and seasonings
• Provides very moist heat environment
• Allows the flavors to develop and meld
• Can cook overnight or while you’re away

How Long To Cook Turkey Necks In A Crockpot

Cooking time can vary slightly depending on the size and quantity of the turkey necks but here are general guidelines

• Low setting (200°F – 250°F): 7 – 8 hours
• High setting (300°F – 350°F): 4 – 5 hours

The low setting is recommended as the slower cook time helps further break down the connective tissues and collagen. Larger or meatier necks may take a little longer.

Tips for Cooking Turkey Necks in a Crockpot

• Pat the necks dry before cooking
• Liberally coat them with seasoning
• Use chicken or turkey broth as cooking liquid
• Add aromatics like onions, garlic, herbs
• Turn necks halfway through
• Discard any necks that float to the top

How To Tell When Turkey Necks Are Done

• Meat shrinks back from the bones
• A fork slides easily in and out of meat
• Meat shreds easily when pierced with a fork
• Internal temperature reaches 185°F – 195°F
• Collagen has melted into the sauce

The meat should not slip off the bones completely, but pull away easily when eaten. If still tough cook for 30 mins to 1 hour longer.

Serving and Storing Cooked Turkey Necks

Once cooked, the turkey necks can be served with rice, potatoes or cornbread. Drizzle the flavorful cooking liquid over the meat. Leftovers will keep refrigerated for 3-4 days or frozen for 4-6 months. Reheat gently before serving again.

Delicious Turkey Neck Recipes For The Crockpot

Here are some amazing flavor combinations for turkey necks:

Cajun Turkey Neck Stew

• Turkey necks
• Diced onions, bell peppers
• Cajun seasoning
• Chicken broth

Barbecue Turkey Necks

• Turkey necks
• Barbecue sauce or dry rub
• Chicken broth
• Chili powder, oregano, cumin

Herb-Roasted Turkey Necks

• Turkey necks
• Olive oil
• Rosemary, thyme, garlic
• Chicken broth

Asian Turkey Neck Soup

• Turkey necks
• Garlic, ginger, sesame oil
• Soy sauce, rice vinegar
• Onion, carrot, celery

Get Perfectly Cooked Turkey Necks Every Time

Cooking turkey necks in a crockpot makes this flavorful cut of meat ridiculously tender. Allow 7-8 hours on low, and they will transform into a mouthwatering meal or addition to soups. Be sure to use a meat thermometer to confirm doneness. Follow these simple tips and enjoy incredible turkey neck dishes easily at home.