When it comes to game meats, wild turkey is a popular choice among adventurous cooks. Its rich flavor and tender texture make it a perfect substitute for chicken or beef in many recipes. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering wild turkey recipes that are sure to impress your friends and family. From classic dishes like pot pie and chili to international flavors like stroganoff and tacos, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just looking to try something new, these recipes will guide you through the process of preparing delicious meals with wild turkey. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get cooking!
Smoked Wild Turkey with Herb Butter
Elevate your holiday gathering with this show-stopping smoked wild turkey dish, perfectly paired with a savory herb butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 pound) wild turkey breast or thighs
– 1 cup wood chips (your choice of hardwood, such as hickory or apple)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons kosher salt
– 1 tablespoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, kosher salt, and black pepper. Rub the mixture all over the turkey breast or thighs.
3. Place the turkey in the smoker and cook for 4-5 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
4. Meanwhile, mix together softened butter, garlic, parsley, and thyme.
5. Once the turkey is cooked, let it rest for 10 minutes before serving with the herb butter spread on top.
Cooking Time: Approximately 4-5 hours (smoking) + 10 minutes resting time
Wild Turkey and Mushroom Stroganoff
A rich and savory dish that combines the bold flavors of Wild Turkey bourbon with sautéed mushrooms and creamy stroganoff sauce. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb mushrooms (button, cremini, or shiitake), sliced
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup Wild Turkey bourbon
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked egg noodles or rice for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown.
3. Add Wild Turkey bourbon, beef broth, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let sauce reduce slightly, stirring occasionally.
5. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve over cooked egg noodles or rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow-Cooked Wild Turkey Chili
This hearty wild turkey chili recipe is perfect for a cold winter’s day. With its rich flavors and tender texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground wild turkey
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium bell peppers, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground turkey in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and diced bell peppers to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, and beef broth to the skillet. Bring to a simmer.
5. Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Grilled Wild Turkey Breast with Garlic Marinade
Elevate your outdoor dining experience with this flavorful grilled wild turkey breast recipe, perfectly seasoned with a savory garlic marinade. Perfect for a weekend BBQ or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless wild turkey breasts
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the turkey breasts to the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (400°F). Remove turkey from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill turkey breasts for 5-6 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. Let turkey rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Wild Turkey Pot Pie with Flaky Crust
This hearty pot pie combines tender turkey, savory vegetables, and flaky crust, perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, it’s sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup ice-cold water
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing crust)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender.
3. Stir in diced turkey and flour; cook for 1 minute.
4. Roll out flaky crust dough (see below) to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with turkey mixture and dot top with butter.
5. Brush edges of crust with beaten egg and roll rim to seal.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
Flaky Crust Recipe:
– Combine flour, salt, and cold butter in a bowl; use pastry blender or fingers to work into coarse crumbs.
– Gradually add ice-cold water, stirring with fork until dough forms.
Braised Wild Turkey Legs in Red Wine Sauce
This hearty dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. The slow-cooked turkey legs fall-off-the-bone tender, and the rich red wine sauce adds depth of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 wild turkey legs (about 1 lb each)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the turkey legs with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. In a large Dutch oven, brown the turkey legs over medium-high heat, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Add the red wine, chicken broth, and tomato paste; bring to a simmer.
6. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise for 2-3 hours or until the turkey is tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme and crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Wild Turkey and Wild Rice Casserole
A hearty, savory casserole that combines the flavors of wild turkey, wild rice, and creamy sauce, perfect for a cold winter’s night.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked wild turkey breast or thighs
– 2 cups cooked wild rice
– 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked wild turkey, wild rice, cream of mushroom soup, milk, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Wild Turkey Jerky
Get ready for a taste adventure with this bold and spicy turkey jerky recipe that combines the flavors of wild game with a kick of heat. Perfect for snacking on-the-go or as a protein-packed addition to your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound wild turkey breast, sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 160°F (70°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, and chili flakes.
3. Add turkey strips to the marinade and toss to coat evenly.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange turkey strips in a single layer.
5. Bake for 3-4 hours or until jerky reaches desired level of dryness.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Wild Turkey Tacos with Avocado Salsa
Add a bold twist to traditional tacos with the smoky flavor of wild turkey, paired with creamy avocado salsa.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb wild turkey breast or thighs, cooked and shredded
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Avocado Salsa (see below)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, crumbled queso fresco
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shredded turkey and cook until heated through.
2. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
3. Assemble tacos by spooning the turkey onto a tortilla, then topping with red onion, cilantro, jalapeño, and a squeeze of lime juice.
Avocado Salsa:
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir until smooth. Serve with tacos.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Wild Turkey with Rosemary and Citrus
Elevate your holiday gathering with this aromatic roasted wild turkey recipe, infused with the savory flavors of rosemary and citrus.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 lb) wild turkey breast or thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 lemon, zested and juiced
– 1 orange, zested and juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, chopped rosemary, lemon zest, and orange zest.
4. Rub the mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and roast for about 2-1/2 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the turkey rest for 15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-1/2 hours
Wild Turkey and Dumplings Stew
Wild Turkey and Dumplings Stew: A Hearty Comfort Food Recipe
This rich and flavorful stew combines the warm spices of Wild Turkey bourbon with tender chicken, savory vegetables, and fluffy dumplings. Perfect for a cold winter’s night or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, celery, potatoes)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Wild Turkey bourbon
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups dumpling mix (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened. Add chicken and cook until browned.
3. Add mixed vegetables, Wild Turkey bourbon, chicken broth, flour, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
4. Prepare dumplings according to package instructions or make your own using a simple dough recipe.
5. Simmer stew for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until dumplings are cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Wild Turkey Sausage and Peppers Skillet
A hearty and flavorful one-pot meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch. This recipe combines the savory flavors of Wild Turkey sausage with sweet bell peppers and onions, all cooked to perfection in a cast-iron skillet.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Wild Turkey sausage, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the sliced peppers and onions to the skillet. Cook until they start to soften, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Add the cooked sausage back into the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Wild Turkey Gumbo with Andouille Sausage
A hearty, spicy gumbo that combines the rich flavors of wild turkey, andouille sausage, and dark roux. Perfect for a cold winter’s night.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless wild turkey breast or thighs
– 1 lb andouille sausage, sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup dark roux (see note)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add sausage; cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add paprika, cayenne pepper, and roux; cook for 1 minute.
5. Add turkey, broth, water, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low; simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until turkey is cooked through.
7. Stir in sausage; season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Note: To make dark roux, melt 2 tablespoons butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; cook for 5-7 minutes or until dark brown.
Wild Turkey Meatballs in Cranberry Glaze
Elevate your meatball game with this savory and sweet combination of wild turkey and cranberries. Perfect for a holiday gathering or a cozy night in, these bite-sized treats are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground wild turkey
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cranberry glaze (see below)
Cranberry Glaze:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp grated orange zest
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs (about 1 1/2 inches in diameter). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine cranberry glaze ingredients in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until thickened.
6. Serve meatballs warm with the cranberry glaze spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Wild Turkey and Sweet Potato Hash
A hearty and flavorful twist on traditional hash, this recipe combines the bold flavors of Wild Turkey bourbon with the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup Wild Turkey bourbon
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon 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 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until caramelized (5-7 minutes).
4. Add roasted sweet potatoes to the skillet with onion mixture. Stir in Wild Turkey bourbon.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until liquid has slightly reduced, stirring occasionally.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Wild Turkey Stir-Fry with Vegetables
A bold and savory stir-fry that combines the rich flavors of wild turkey with a variety of colorful vegetables, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless wild turkey breast, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, any color, sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup snap peas, sliced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the turkey and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pan; cook until the onion is translucent, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the bell pepper and broccoli; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Return the turkey to the pan and stir in the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Wild Turkey Shepherd’s Pie with Mashed Cauliflower
This recipe combines the savory flavors of wild turkey with the comfort of mashed cauliflower, creating a unique and satisfying twist on traditional shepherd’s pie.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground wild turkey
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 2 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 3-4 cups mashed cauliflower (see below for recipe)
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
Mashed Cauliflower:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground wild turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with spoon as needed.
3. Add onion, garlic, peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Top with mashed cauliflower and sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Wild Turkey and Black Bean Enchiladas
Wild Turkey and Black Bean Enchiladas: A Spicy Twist on a Classic
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Wild Turkey whiskey with the comforting warmth of black bean enchiladas, perfect for a unique dinner party or cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup cooked black beans
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 can enchilada sauce
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco (optional)
– 2 tablespoons Wild Turkey whiskey
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, and olive oil to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in black beans, cumin, and chili powder; cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
5. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side. This will make them more pliable.
6. Assemble enchiladas by spooning meat mixture onto a tortilla, rolling, and placing seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
7. Pour enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas, followed by shredded cheese.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Remove from oven and drizzle with Wild Turkey whiskey. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your culinary game with these 18 savory wild turkey recipes! From comforting pot pies to spicy jerky and tacos, there’s something for every adventurous cook. Discover bold flavors like smoked wild turkey with herb butter, slow-cooked chili, and braised legs in red wine sauce. Or try something new like wild turkey and dumplings stew or meatballs in cranberry glaze. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out, these recipes will inspire you to get creative with this versatile bird.
