How Long to Cook Turkey Necks in a Crockpot for Perfectly Tender Meat

Turkey necks are an underrated and delicious cut of meat that can be easily prepared in a crockpot. When cooked low and slow, the turkey necks become fall-off-the-bone tender while infusing the surrounding broth with incredible flavor. But exactly how long should you cook turkey necks in a crockpot to achieve the perfect texture?

Factors That Affect Cook Time

There are a few factors that will impact the total cook time needed for turkey necks in a crockpot

• Quantity of necks – The more necks in the crockpot, the longer it will take. A few necks will cook faster than a pound or more.

• Size of the necks – Larger, meatier necks will require more time than smaller ones.

• Bone-in or boneless – Boneless necks will cook faster than bone-in.

• Crockpot size – A smaller 2-3 quart crockpot will cook faster than a larger 6+ quart size.

• Liquid amount – Having enough liquid to partially submerge the necks is ideal. Too little liquid may lead to drying out.

• Cooking temperature – The LOW setting will require a longer cook time than HIGH.

Recommended Cook Times

Taking these factors into account, here are some general guidelines for cook times:

• 4-6 small necks on LOW: 7-9 hours

• 1-2 pounds of necks on LOW: 8-10 hours

• 4-6 small necks on HIGH: 4-6 hours

• 1-2 pounds of necks on HIGH: 6-8 hours

For best results, cook turkey necks for at least 7-8 hours on the LOW setting. This lower temperature and extended time allows the collagen in the meat to fully break down, resulting in supreme tenderness.

If short on time, the HIGH setting will work but may produce slightly tougher meat. Check for doneness after 6 hours and continue cooking if needed.

Doneness Tests

With turkey necks, appearance and texture are better indicators of doneness than temperature. Here’s what to look for:

• Meat pulls away cleanly from the bone

• Meat shreds easily when poked with a fork

• Necks are fork tender throughout

• Broth has thickened slightly and become aromatic

The meat should not seem tough, rubbery or unevenly cooked when checking doneness. If it’s not quite done, simmer covered on LOW for an additional 30-60 minutes until fully tender.

Flavorful Liquid is Key

Having ample liquid is important when braising turkey necks to prevent drying out. Use broth, stock or water along with aromatics like onion, celery, carrots, garlic, and fresh herbs. Turkey or chicken broth provides the most flavor.

As the necks cook, they will impart a rich, meaty essence into the surrounding liquid. This can then be used as a base for gravies, soups and stews.

Sample Crockpot Turkey Neck Recipe

Here is a simple recipe to try:

Ingredients:

• 1-2 lbs turkey necks
• 3 cups chicken or turkey broth
• 1 onion, quartered
• 3 cloves garlic, smashed
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or sage
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

Instructions:

1. Add broth, onion, garlic, bay leaves, thyme, salt and pepper to a 4-6 quart crockpot.

2. Rinse turkey necks and add to liquid. Make sure necks are mostly submerged.

3. Cook on LOW for 8-10 hours or HIGH for 6-8 hours.

4. Remove necks when fully tender. Discard bay leaves.

5. Use broth for gravy or soup. Enjoy necks on their own or add to dishes.

Tender Turkey Necks Made Easy

Crockpots make cooking turkey necks simple and hands-off. Allowing 7-10 hours cooking time depending on quantity will result in succulent, pull-apart meat and maximum flavor development. Check for doneness along the way and adjust cook time if needed. Enjoy these underrated cuts in hearty stews, gravies, or even on their own!