How Long to Cook Turkey Necks in an Instant Pot for Tender, Fall-Off-the-Bone Meat

Cooking turkey necks in an Instant Pot is a great way to transform this inexpensive cut of meat into a delicious flavorful meal. The high pressure cooking of the Instant Pot helps break down the collagen and connective tissue in turkey necks, resulting in meat so tender it falls right off the bone. But exactly how long do you need to cook turkey necks in an Instant Pot to achieve this melt-in-your-mouth texture? Let’s find out.

Key Factors That Determine Cooking Time

There are a few key factors that will determine the cooking time needed for tender turkey necks in an Instant Pot:

• Size of the necks – Smaller necks will cook faster than larger, meatier ones. Plan for a longer cook time for big turkey necks.

• Amount of necks – The more necks you add to the Instant Pot, the longer the cook time Don’t overload the pot

• Bone-in or bone-out – Boneless turkey neck meat will cook faster than bone-in.

• Fresh or frozen – Frozen necks take longer to cook than fresh.

• Pressure setting – Cook time can vary based on high or low pressure setting.

Taking these factors into account will help you hone in on the right Instant Pot cooking time for tender turkey necks.

Recommended Cook Times

Here are some general guidelines for cook times when making turkey necks in an Instant Pot:

• 2-3 small necks (1-2 lbs) – High pressure for 15-20 minutes, followed by natural release for 10 minutes.

• 4-6 medium necks (2-3 lbs) – High pressure for 18-22 minutes, followed by natural release for 10-15 minutes.

• 8-10 large necks (4-5 lbs) – High pressure for 25-30 minutes, followed by natural release for 15 minutes.

• Boneless turkey neck meat – High pressure for 8-10 minutes then quick release.

• Frozen necks – Increase cook time by 5-10 minutes.

These cook times should result in fork tender turkey necks with meat falling off the bone. Keep in mind that necks on the smaller or thinner side may cook faster.

Helpful Tips for Cooking Turkey Necks

Follow these tips for the best results when making Instant Pot turkey necks:

• Sear or brown the necks first – This adds deeper flavor. Use the Instant Pot’s Saute function before pressure cooking.

• Layer necks neatly in a single layer – Avoid overcrowding the pot.

• Add 1 cup broth or water – This helps create steam and pressure. Chicken, turkey or vegetable broth adds flavor.

• Use a trivet or steamer basket – This elevates necks out of the liquid.

• Turn valve to sealing position – Ensures pressure build up.

• Allow natural release – Helps ensure even cooking and tender meat.

• Check for doneness – Use a meat thermometer to confirm internal temp reaches 165°F.

Serving Suggestions for Instant Pot Turkey Necks

Once you’ve perfectly cooked turkey necks in your Instant Pot, here are some delicious ways to serve them:

• Turkey neck salad – Dice meat and add to a fresh salad for protein.

• Turkey neck soup – Simmer diced turkey neck meat in broth with veggies.

• Turkey neck tacos – Warm tortillas, shredded meat, salsa and avocado.

• Turkey neck sandwiches – Pile tender meat onto rolls with your favorite toppings.

• Turkey neck gravy – Use the cooking liquid to make an incredible gravy.

• Smothered turkey necks – Simmer necks in onion, bell pepper and rich gravy.

• Gumbo with turkey necks – Add neck meat to seafood gumbo for more flavor.

With the proper cook time, your Instant Pot turkey necks will become fall-off-the-bone tender. Reference the recommendations in this article, but also take the size and amount of your necks into consideration. And be sure to experiment with the many delicious ways to serve up your cooked turkey necks. Enjoy this inexpensive cut in flavorful new recipes thanks to your Instant Pot!

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I cook turkey necks in an Instant Pot?

It depends on the size and amount of necks, but generally 15-30 minutes on high pressure, followed by a natural release, will yield tender, fall-off-the-bone turkey necks. Start checking doneness after 15 minutes.

Do I need to add liquid when cooking turkey necks in an Instant Pot?

Yes, you’ll need at least 1 cup of broth, water, or other liquid to create steam and pressure. The liquid also helps impart flavor.

Should I sear the turkey necks first?

Searing or browning the necks first is recommended, as it adds deeper flavor. Use the Instant Pot’s Saute function before pressure cooking.

What temperature should turkey necks reach when done?

Turkey necks are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to confirm doneness.

Can I cook frozen turkey necks in my Instant Pot?

Yes, you can cook frozen turkey necks in an Instant Pot. Just increase the cook time by 5-10 minutes. Make sure necks are fully submerged in liquid.

What are some good ways to use cooked Instant Pot turkey necks?

Shredded for tacos or sandwiches, added to soups and salads, or served whole with gravy or sauce are all delicious ways to enjoy Instant Pot turkey necks.