Turkey necks are one of the least appreciated cuts of poultry, but they can be incredibly delicious when cooked properly. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll show you how to prepare, season, and bake turkey necks in the oven for a juicy, tender result.
Ingredients Needed
The ingredients required to cook turkey necks in the oven are few:
- 1-2 pounds of turkey necks
- Salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings
- A shallow baking dish
In addition, you will need a few tablespoons of oil or butter to coat the turkey necks before baking. This will help to ensure that the turkey necks are cooked through and remain moist and flavorful.
Preparing the Turkey Necks
Begin by washing your turkey necks in cold water and patting them dry with a paper towel. If your necks have skin on them, use a knife or scissors to trim off any excess fat. Place them in your shallow baking dish.
Once the turkey necks are in the baking dish, season them with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices. Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the necks and rub it in to ensure even coverage. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30-45 minutes, or until the turkey necks are cooked through.
Seasoning the Necks
Sprinkle some salt, pepper, and your desired seasonings over the turkey necks. Use your fingers to rub the seasonings into both sides of each neck. You can use as little or as much seasoning as you’d like, depending on your taste preferences.
If you’re looking for a more flavorful option, you can also try adding garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika to the seasonings. You can also add some herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra layer of flavor. Experiment with different combinations to find the perfect blend for your turkey necks.
Preheating the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Allow it to reach this temperature before placing the turkey necks in the oven to ensure that the oven is hot enough to properly cook the turkey.
It is important to preheat the oven for at least 15 minutes before adding the turkey necks. This will ensure that the oven is hot enough to cook the turkey necks evenly and thoroughly. Additionally, it is important to check the temperature of the oven with an oven thermometer to make sure that it is at the desired temperature before adding the turkey necks.
Baking the Necks
Place the baking dish with the seasoned turkey necks into the oven. Bake them uncovered for 45 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F when a thermometer is inserted into the thickest part of the neck.
Once the turkey necks have finished baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve the turkey necks with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Checking for Doneness
When your turkey necks are done baking, use an instant-read thermometer to check the temperature of each neck; the thermometer should read at least 165°F when inserted into the thickest part of the neck. If any necks do not reach this temperature, return them to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes.
It is important to check the temperature of the turkey necks in multiple places to ensure that they are cooked through. Additionally, you should also check the color of the necks; they should be golden brown and crispy. If the necks are not yet golden brown, you can increase the oven temperature to 375°F and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Turkey necks can be served as-is, or you can use a knife to separate the meat from the bones. Serve them with some mashed potatoes and vegetables for a complete meal.
You can also use turkey necks to make a delicious soup or stew. Simply simmer the necks in a pot of broth and vegetables for a few hours, then add your favorite seasonings. Serve with crusty bread for a hearty and flavorful meal.
Tips for Perfectly Cooked Turkey Necks
- Be sure to season the necks on both sides with salt, pepper, and your desired seasonings.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F before placing the necks in it.
- Bake turkey necks uncovered for 45 minutes, or until an internal temperature of at least 165°F is reached.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness; if any necks do not reach 165°F when tested, return them to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
With these tips in mind, you can enjoy perfectly cooked turkey necks every time!
For an extra crispy texture, you can brush the turkey necks with melted butter or oil before baking. This will help to create a golden, crispy exterior. Additionally, you can add a few tablespoons of liquid, such as chicken broth or white wine, to the bottom of the baking dish to help keep the turkey necks moist and flavorful.
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