The smell of smoked turkey wafting from your kitchen is a surefire way to get everyone’s attention during the holiday season. Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or a large feast, these 20 savory smoked turkey recipes are sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more.
From classic smoky flavors to bold and adventurous twists, we’ve got you covered with our collection of mouth-watering ideas. Take your pick from sweet and sticky glazes to spicy and tangy rubs, each recipe is designed to bring out the best in this beloved holiday staple. So why settle for just one dish when you can have them all? Dive into our gallery below to get started on planning the most epic holiday spread yet.
[Gallery of recipes follows]
Classic Smoked Turkey with Herb Butter
Experience the rich flavor of slow-smoked turkey paired with a savory herb butter that’s sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1 cup wood chips (your choice of hickory, apple, or cherry)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Smoke the turkey for 6-8 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, garlic, parsley, and thyme.
5. Once the turkey is cooked, brush the herb butter all over the surface.
6. Let the turkey rest for 15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Honey Glazed Smoked Turkey Breast
Smokey sweetness takes center stage with this delectable Honey Glazed Smoked Turkey Breast recipe, perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) boneless turkey breast
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and smoked paprika.
3. Place turkey breast in the smoker, glaze-side down.
4. Smoke for 2-3 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. Brush with additional honey glaze during last 30 minutes of cooking.
6. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Applewood Smoked Turkey with Garlic Rub
Applewood Smoked Turkey with Garlic Rub Recipe
Elevate your turkey game with this mouthwatering combination of tender meat and savory flavors. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of applewood smoke with a pungent garlic rub, resulting in a bird that’s both moist and aromatic.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons applewood smoked sea salt
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the applewood smoked sea salt, minced garlic, and brown sugar.
3. Rub the garlic mixture all over the turkey, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the turkey and sprinkle with black pepper.
5. Place the turkey in the oven and roast for 2-1/2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove from the oven and let rest for 15 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Spicy Cajun Smoked Turkey Legs
Get ready to kick it up a notch with this bold and flavorful recipe! Spicy Cajun Smoked Turkey Legs are perfect for a backyard BBQ or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 4 turkey legs
– 1/2 cup Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– Wood chips for smoking (such as hickory or apple)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the turkey legs, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Place the turkey legs in the smoker and close the lid. Smoke for 2-1/2 to 3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush the turkey legs with apple cider vinegar and water mixture.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Maple Bourbon Smoked Turkey
Elevate your holiday table with this sweet and savory smoked turkey recipe, infused with the rich flavors of maple bourbon glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 lb) whole turkey
– 1 cup pure Canadian maple syrup
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small saucepan, combine maple syrup, bourbon, brown sugar, and smoked paprika. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, whisking until smooth.
3. Remove turkey from brine (if using) and pat dry with paper towels.
4. Place turkey in the smoker, breast side up.
5. Glaze turkey every 30 minutes with the maple bourbon mixture, starting after the first hour of smoking.
6. Smoke for a total of 4-5 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Smoked Turkey and Cranberry Panini
Elevate your panini game with this sweet and savory combination of smoked turkey, cranberries, and creamy brie. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread ( Ciabatta or Baguette work well)
– 2 oz Smoked Turkey Breast
– 1/4 cup Cranberry Sauce
– 1/4 cup Brie Cheese, softened
– 1 tsp Honey
– Fresh Thyme leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Layer each slice of bread with smoked turkey, cranberry sauce, and brie cheese.
3. Drizzle honey on top of the brie cheese.
4. Top with fresh thyme leaves.
5. Place the sandwiches in the panini press or grill and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Smoked Turkey Gumbo with Andouille Sausage
A hearty and flavorful gumbo that combines the richness of smoked turkey with the spicy kick of Andouille sausage.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked turkey breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 Andouille sausages, sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup long-grain rice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large cast-iron pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add turkey, sausages, onion, celery, garlic, thyme, and cayenne; cook until turkey is browned and sausages are crispy.
3. Add tomatoes, broth, and rice; stir to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions (if desired).
7. Serve hot over cooked rice.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Smoked Turkey and Wild Rice Soup
Warm up with this hearty soup that combines the rich flavors of smoked turkey with the nutty taste of wild rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked turkey breast, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup wild rice blend
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the smoked turkey, wild rice blend, chicken broth, and thyme. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until the rice is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Smoked Turkey Cobb Salad
Elevate your salad game with this Smoked Turkey Cobb Salad recipe, featuring tender smoked turkey, crisp greens, and tangy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked smoked turkey breast, diced
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced smoked turkey, crumbled blue cheese, chopped red onion, and chopped parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar and olive oil to make the dressing.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Smoked Turkey and Brie Grilled Cheese
Elevate your grilled cheese game with this decadent combination of smoky turkey, creamy brie, and melted cheddar on toasted bread. Perfect for a comforting lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of artisanal bread (such as baguette or ciabatta)
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
– 2 ounces of smoked turkey breast, sliced
– 1/4 cup of brie cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup of cheddar cheese, shredded
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, butter-side down, on the grill.
4. Top with smoked turkey, brie cheese, and cheddar cheese.
5. Place the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top of the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the other side is also toasted.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes total
Smoked Turkey Nachos with Chipotle Cream
Elevate your nacho game with this spicy twist on a classic favorite! Smoky turkey and creamy chipotle sauce come together to create a flavor combination that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of tortilla chips
– 1 lb smoked turkey breast, diced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– 2 tbsp sour cream
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced onions, jalapeños, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Arrange tortilla chips on a baking sheet.
3. Top with smoked turkey, black beans, and cheese.
4. In a separate bowl, mix sour cream and chipotle peppers. Spread over the top of the nachos.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Sprinkle cumin to taste.
7. Serve immediately with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Smoked Turkey Pot Pie with Flaky Crust
Elevate your comfort food game with this show-stopping Smoked Turkey Pot Pie, featuring a buttery, flaky crust and rich, savory filling.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked turkey breast, diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened; add diced turkey and cook until heated through.
3. Add frozen vegetables, flour, chicken broth, and heavy cream; stir until combined. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes or until thickened.
4. Roll out pie crust to fit a 9-inch pie dish; fill with turkey mixture.
5. Roll remaining crust into strips for lattice top; place on filling and weave into a lattice pattern.
6. Brush crust with beaten egg for golden brown finish.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until crust is golden brown and filling is hot.
Smoked Turkey and Sweet Potato Hash
Elevate your brunch game with this savory and sweet twist on a classic hash. Smoked turkey adds a rich, meaty flavor to balance out the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked turkey breast, diced
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add diced smoked turkey to the skillet and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Once sweet potatoes are roasted, add them to the skillet with the turkey mixture. Toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Smoked Turkey Tacos with Avocado Salsa
Elevate your taco game with this unique combination of tender smoked turkey and creamy avocado salsa. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 1 cup wood chips (your preferred type of smoking wood)
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (or use a charcoal or gas grill with a temperature control).
2. Smoke the turkey breast for about 4-5 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
3. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in foil and heating them on the grill or in the oven for a few minutes.
4. In a bowl, combine diced avocado, red onion, jalapeño, and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Assemble the tacos by slicing the smoked turkey into thin strips and placing it onto a warmed tortilla. Top with avocado salsa and your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (smoking time) + additional time for preparing toppings
Smoked Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this unique and flavorful recipe, combining the richness of smoked turkey and spinach with tender shells.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 lb cooked smoked turkey breast, diced
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add diced turkey, spinach, Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs to the skillet. Cook until heated through, stirring occasionally.
5. Stuff each pasta shell with the turkey-spinach mixture.
6. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoked Turkey Shepherd’s Pie
This recipe takes the traditional shepherd’s pie and elevates it with the rich flavor of smoked turkey. The result is a comforting, satisfying dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked turkey breast, shredded
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add the shredded turkey, peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, flour, Worcestershire sauce, and milk. Stir until combined.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Top with mashed potatoes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoked Turkey and Cornbread Stuffing
A savory twist on traditional stuffing, this recipe combines the rich flavors of smoked turkey with the warmth of cornbread and a hint of herbs. Perfect for your next holiday gathering or family dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup chopped celery
– 1 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
– 1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cubed smoked turkey breast (about 6 oz)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté celery, onion, and parsley in butter until tender.
3. Add cornbread, sage, and poultry seasoning; stir until well combined.
4. Fold in smoked turkey cubes.
5. Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoked Turkey Quesadillas with Pepper Jack
Elevate your snack game with these savory and smoky quesadillas, packed with tender turkey and spicy pepper jack cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked turkey breast, shredded
– 2 large tortillas
– 1 cup pepper jack cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together the smoked turkey breast and 1/2 cup of the pepper jack cheese.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the turkey mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted, flipping halfway through.
6. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
7. Serve warm with additional cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Smoked Turkey and Mushroom Risotto
Elevate your risotto game with this savory dish that combines the rich flavors of smoked turkey, earthy mushrooms, and creamy Arborio rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1/2 cup smoked turkey breast, diced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add onion and cook until translucent, 3-4 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add Arborio rice and stir to coat with oil and mix with vegetables. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add white wine (if using) and cook until absorbed, stirring constantly.
5. Add 1/2 cup warmed broth and stir until mostly absorbed. Repeat process, adding broth in 1/2-cup increments, until rice is cooked and creamy, about 20-25 minutes.
6. Stir in smoked turkey, butter, salt, and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoked Turkey Chili with Black Beans
This hearty and flavorful chili recipe combines the rich taste of smoked turkey with the creaminess of black beans, all wrapped up in a savory broth. Perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked turkey breast, diced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (5 minutes).
3. Add turkey, cumin, and chili powder; cook until turkey is browned (5-7 minutes).
4. Stir in black beans, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth.
5. Bring to a simmer; reduce heat to low and cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your holiday gatherings with these 20 savory smoked turkey recipes! From classic herb butter to spicy Cajun legs, and from sweet potato hash to quesadillas with pepper jack, there’s something for every taste. Discover mouthwatering dishes like maple bourbon smoked turkey, smoky gumbo, and tender pot pie. Whether you’re hosting a big bash or a cozy dinner party, these recipes will help you create unforgettable meals that your guests will rave about.
