🖤 Soul Food Meets Speed:
If you’re craving slow-cooked Southern comfort but don’t have all day to hang by the stove, baby—this one’s for you. These smoked turkey necks are rich, fall-off-the-bone tender, and infused with deep smoky flavor, all made easy with your Instant Pot.
This is the kind of recipe that hugs your insides. Serve it with rice and greens, mop up that juice with cornbread, and just like that—you’re back at Big Mama’s table.
🛒 Ingredients:
2–3 lbs smoked turkey necks
1 small onion, chopped
1 small bell pepper, chopped (optional)
3–4 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups chicken broth (or water + bouillon)
1 tsp seasoned salt
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp paprika (or smoked paprika)
¼ tsp cayenne (optional heat)
2–3 bay leaves
1 tsp apple cider vinegar or hot sauce (optional boost)
Optional: 1 chopped celery stalk or 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
🥘 How to make:
- Sauté the Flavor Base (Optional but Bomb):
- Turn your Instant Pot to Sauté. Add a splash of oil, then toss in your chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
- Layer the Turkey Necks:
- Place your smoked turkey necks right on top of the sautéed aromatics. Sprinkle in all the seasonings, making sure they coat everything. Top with celery (if using)
- Add Broth + Bay Leaves:
- Pour in your chicken broth and drop in the bay leaves. You want the necks mostly covered.
Pressure Cook:
- Lock the lid. Set the valve to Sealing.
- Cook on High Pressure for 45–50 minutes.
- Allow a natural release for 10–15 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
Taste + Finish:
Open the lid, taste, and adjust seasonings. You can reduce the pot liquor by simmering on Sauté mode for more concentrated flavor.
Want it Gravy-Style?
Remove turkey necks. Whisk 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water, stir it into the liquid. Simmer until thickened.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions:
- Ladled over fluffy white rice
- With a side of collard greens, green beans or buttery cabbage
- Cornbread on the side to catch all that pot liquor
- Sweet tea or peach iced tea in your glass (you deserve it)
💌 Final Note:
Smoked turkey necks might not get the Instagram spotlight like brisket or oxtails, but they are the unsung hero of Southern kitchens. With this Instant Pot method, you get all the love and richness in a fraction of the time.
Got leftovers? Shred the meat and throw it in beans, greens, or even a savory soup. Thank me later.
