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 and 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 literally falls right off the bone. But how long exactly do you need to cook turkey necks in an Instant Pot to achieve this melt-in-your-mouth texture? Let’s dive in and find out.

Key Factors That Determine Cooking Time

There are a few key factors that will determine the cooking time needed for tender fall-off-the-bone 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 boneless – 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 Instant Pot 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 than the recommended times.

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 Sauté 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 tender, fall-off-the-bone 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 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 into account the size and amount of your necks. Experiment with the many delicious ways to serve up your cooked turkey necks. Enjoy this inexpensive cut transformed into tender, flavorful meat thanks to your Instant Pot!

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Cook times can range from 15-30 minutes on high pressure depending on the size and amount of necks. Smaller necks may only need 15-20 minutes, while larger or meatier necks may require 25-30 minutes. Allow 10-15 minutes natural release after pressure cooking.

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

Yes, adding 1 cup of broth, water or other liquid is necessary to create steam and pressure. Chicken or turkey broth adds great flavor.

Should turkey necks be seared first before pressure cooking?

It’s recommended to sear or brown the turkey necks first using the Instant Pot’s Sauté function. This helps enhance flavor.

What is the best way to layer turkey necks in an Instant Pot?

Arrange turkey necks in a single layer, neatly stacked and evenly distributed for best results. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.

How can I tell when turkey necks are done in the Instant Pot?

Use a meat thermometer to check doneness, with an internal temp of 165°F indicating done. Meat should be very tender and easy to pull off the bones.

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

Shredded in tacos, diced in soup and salad, piled on sandwiches, simmered in gravy, or added to gumbo are all delicious ways to serve Instant Pot turkey necks.