How Long to Boil Turkey Necks

Turkey necks are a useful part of the bird. Not only is there edible dark meat present on the neck, but turkey necks can be used to make flavorful turkey broth, stock for soup and can even be added to stews. The easiest way to cook them is by boiling them, so let’s discuss how long to boil turkey necks.

How Long to Boil Turkey Necks: A Five-Step Process

If you look up “how long do turkey necks take to boil?” or “how long does it take to boil turkey necks?”, most sources suggest an hour, because it takes about an hour to reach the minimum internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. However, that doesn’t mean an hour of cook time will yield the best results. Ideally, turkey necks should be tender, and in most cases, an hour won’t cut it, so before we get into specifics, let’s talk ingredients. You’ll need the following:

• 2 pounds turkey necks
• 2 medium onions, peeled and quartered
• 3 ribs of celery, cut into large chunks
• 4 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed
• Water
• Salt
• Herbs and spices, as desired

In addition to the above, a pot large enough to boil 2 pounds of turkey necks is required. Then:

1. Add the turkey necks to a large pot with the onions, celery and garlic.
2. Add enough water to cover the contents of the pot.
3. Bring the water to a rolling boil, cover, reduce the heat to medium and boil for 1 hour.
4. Uncover the pot, then add salt and the desired herbs and spices.
5. Cover the pot again. Boil the turkey necks for another 1-2 hours or until tender.

Note: For those wondering how long to boil turkey necks for gravy, follow the same steps. To impart the most flavor, aim for 2 hours.

How Long to Boil Smoked Turkey Necks

Boiling isn’t necessary for smoked turkey necks purchased at the grocery store, because they are fully cooked, so the question “how long does it take to boil turkey necks that have been smoked?” is moot. Unless your goal is to infuse a broth with their flavor, skip the boiling. The same goes if you plan to smoke raw turkey necks yourself using a smoker or pellet grill. Smoking is a low and slow method that yields tender meat; therefore, boiling isn’t needed.

Turkey Neck Nutrients

Now that the question of how long does it take for turkey necks to boil has been answered, let’s talk nutrition. Below is a quick nutrition breakdown of a mere ounce of meat from a turkey neck.

Pretty impressive, right?

Now that you know how long it takes to boil turkey necks, make some of your own. They’re delicious and relatively nutritious, plus they freeze well if you want to save a few for future soups or stews.