16 Wild Turkey Recipes​


Unleash your culinary creativity with 16 wild turkey recipes! Delicious, hearty, and perfect for any occasion!


Published: November 15, 2024 · Modified: November 15, 2024 by Jennifer Ryan

Wild Turkey Recipes​

16 Wild Turkey Recipes​

I’m always on the lookout for new ways to make my meals stand out, and wild turkey recipes have become my secret weapon! There’s just something about its rich, tender flavor that makes every dish feel extra special. I love experimenting with it, and I’ve put together a list of my 16 favorite wild turkey recipes to share with you. Whether you’re planning a festive holiday meal or just want to try something new for dinner, I promise these dishes will impress everyone at your table.

1. Thanksgiving Wild Turkey

This Thanksgiving wild turkey recipe brings a delicious twist to the holiday table with its rich, savory flavors. The bird is coated in rendered fatback, seasoned with fresh herbs, and stuffed with a flavorful mixture of toasted bread, garlic, onions, and celery. As it roasts, the turkey develops a golden-brown crust, and the fatback keeps the meat juicy and tender. After resting, the turkey is ready to be carved and served as the ultimate centerpiece for a cozy, flavor-packed Thanksgiving meal.

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2. Wild Turkey Kebabs

Wild turkey kebabs are a deliciously tender option for grilling, with the turkey breast cut into small cubes to ensure even cooking. Marinated in a savory mix of soy sauce, sherry wine, apple juice, garlic, and ginger, the turkey soaks up rich flavors over a few hours. Skewered with colorful peppers, onions, and cherry tomatoes, these kebabs get a dusting of mild chile seasoning before grilling hot for a tasty char. Perfect for an appetizer or main course.

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3. Pumpkin and Turkey Wild Rice Soup

Pumpkin and turkey wild rice soup is the ultimate fall comfort food! This cozy soup is packed with turkey, wild rice, and veggies in a creamy pumpkin and apple cider-infused broth. Starting with sautéed onions, carrots, and celery, it’s seasoned with garlic, thyme, sage, and rosemary for deep autumn flavor. The pumpkin puree and Parmesan cheese add richness, while the turkey and hearty wild rice make it a filling meal. It’s a delicious, one-pot way to embrace the flavors of fall!

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4. Smoked Boneless Turkey Breast Recipe

This smoked wild turkey breast is a deliciously tender option for any meal, from sandwiches to holiday feasts! By trimming the breast into a cylinder, it smokes evenly, and a savory cure of kosher salt and brown sugar infuses rich flavors over a three-day marinating period. After curing, it’s smoked low and slow, getting brushed with honey for a perfect glaze that’s sweet and smoky. Serve it warm for dinner or cold in sandwiches for a flavorful twist on a classic.

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5. One Pot Turkey Wild Rice Casserole

This one-pot turkey and wild rice casserole is a cozy, veggie-packed dish that’s perfect for leftover Thanksgiving turkey or even chicken. It’s loaded with mushrooms, carrots, spinach, and aromatic herbs, all cooked with wild rice in a single skillet. A topping of melted parmesan and cheddar adds a savory finish, making this casserole an easy, hearty meal that’s delicious any time of year!

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6. Pan-Fried Wild Turkey Recipe

This pan-fried wild turkey recipe is a crispy, golden delight, perfect for anyone who loves a crunchy texture on their meat! Coated in seasoned breadcrumbs, each turkey strip is pan-fried to a deliciously crisp finish. It makes a great main dish alongside veggies or as a hearty addition to salads.

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7. Easy Skillet Wild Turkey and Broccoli

A simple wild turkey and broccoli skillet dish that’s delicious, quick to prepare and has an Asian-inspired twist. Thinly sliced wild turkey breast is marinated and then sautéed with fresh broccoli and onions, all coated in a savory garlic-ginger sauce. Serve over rice or noodles for a quick, healthy, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or as a lean alternative to heavier dishes.

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8. Turkey Gumbo with Andouille and Shrimp

Turkey gumbo with andouille sausage and shrimp is a flavorful way to use a turkey drumstick. This Cajun-inspired dish combines tender turkey, Gulf shrimp, smoked sausage, and a rich roux for a deep, savory base. Add in colorful bell peppers, celery, and okra, and let everything simmer until the flavors meld beautifully. Finish with a splash of hot sauce and green onions, and serve it over rice for a comforting meal that’s big on flavor.

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9. Boneless Skinless Turkey Breast in the Oven

This easy, oven-baked boneless skinless turkey breast recipe is ideal for small gatherings and offers tender, flavorful meat perfect for a cozy holiday meal. The turkey is brined with apple juice and herbs, then seared to golden perfection before roasting. While it rests, whip up a rich gravy with sautéed onions and a touch of tomato paste for added depth.

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10. Honey BBQ Whiskey Turkey Bites

These honey BBQ whiskey turkey bites are deliciously versatile and perfect for any meal! Tossed in a rich, tangy sauce made from whiskey, apple juice, soy sauce, and brown sugar, the crispy turkey bites are packed with flavor. Serve them over rice, in a tortilla, or even on their own, this sweet and savory dish is bound to impress!

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11. Stuffed Turkey Breast

This stuffed turkey breast roast is a perfect centerpiece for a Thanksgiving celebration! Tender turkey breast is filled with a savory sausage, herb, and apple stuffing, then wrapped in prosciutto for extra flavor. Roasted with onions and cranberries, it comes together in under two hours and is both festive and easy to make. Slice it up and serve with your favorite sides for a special, satisfying meal!

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12. Shredded Turkey for Tacos

Yucatan-style shredded turkey is a bold, savory dish that’s perfect for tacos or rice bowls. Turkey legs, thighs, and wings are marinated in achiote paste and orange juice, then charred and slowly simmered in a rich sauce made with charred garlic, tomatoes, and Mexican spices. Once tender, shred the turkey and serve it with warm tortillas, fresh salsa, cilantro, and perhaps some roasted poblanos. This flavorful dish makes a perfect twist on taco night!

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13. Jalapeño and Sun-dried Tomato Wild Turkey Thigh Sausage

Turn wild turkey thighs into delicious jalapeño and sun-dried tomato sausage! Blending turkey meat with pork fat and flavors like white pepper, paprika, and sage gives these sausages a bold, savory kick. Perfect for an appetizer or main dish, this flavorful twist on sausage makes an unforgettable addition to any meal.

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14. Baked Turkey Taquitos

Baked turkey taquitos are a delicious way to enjoy wild turkey legs, stuffed with tender meat and bursting with flavor! After slow-cooking the turkey with onions and chipotle peppers, these tasty morsels are rolled up in corn tortillas, sprinkled with cheese, and baked to crispy perfection. Drizzle them with avocado oil for an extra crunch, and you’ve got a crowd-pleasing treat that’s perfect for any occasion!

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15. Wild Turkey Mushroom Risotto

Wild turkey mushroom risotto is a very flavorful dish that makes the most of your slow cooker! This recipe features tender wild turkey breast simmered with earthy mushrooms, onions, and fragrant thyme, creating a hearty meal. After a good soak in a brine, the turkey is cooked until juicy and then shredded into creamy Arborio rice, making it the ultimate comfort food. Top it off with fresh parsley and Parmesan for a delicious finishing touch!

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16. Teriyaki Wild Turkey Skewers

Get ready for some delicious teriyaki wild turkey skewers! This fun dish features tender cubes of wild turkey breast marinated in a sweet and savory blend of soy sauce, honey, and fresh ginger. After soaking up all that flavor, the turkey is grilled to juicy perfection and glazed with a thickened teriyaki sauce. Serve these tasty skewers over rice with grilled veggies and top them off with green onions and sesame seeds for an irresistible meal!

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Understanding Wild Turkey

I’ve always been intrigued by the versatility of wild turkey in the kitchen. Unlike its farm-raised counterpart, wild turkey boasts a rich flavor profile that’s often described as more robust and gamey, making it a delightful option for various dishes. Wild turkey can be enjoyed year-round, but it truly shines during the holiday season, especially for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Its lean meat is lower in fat than traditional poultry, meaning that with the right cooking techniques, you can achieve a juicy, flavorful centerpiece that will impress your guests. Whether you’re roasting a whole bird or using specific cuts for hearty recipes, wild turkey offers a delicious and unique culinary experience.

Christmas Dinner with roast turkey being sliced

Cooking with Wild Turkey

When it comes to cooking with wild turkey, preparation is key. Since wild turkey tends to be leaner as mentioned above, it can dry out if overcooked. To ensure a tender and moist result, marinating the meat beforehand is a fantastic way to infuse flavor and moisture. Brining is another effective technique, especially for larger cuts like the breast. For a simple yet delicious marinade, consider using a mix of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs. Cooking methods can vary from roasting and grilling to slow-cooking, each bringing out different textures and flavors. Personally, I love the smoky flavor that comes from grilling wild turkey, especially when paired with bold spices or glazes.

Wild Turkey Recipes​

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. How do I properly prepare wild turkey?
    Before cooking, ensure you clean and trim the wild turkey, removing any feathers or leftover shot. Brining or marinating can help maintain moisture during cooking.
  2. What are the best cooking methods for wild turkey?
    Wild turkey can be roasted, grilled, smoked, or slow-cooked. Each method has its benefits, but roasting is particularly popular for special occasions.
  3. Can I substitute wild turkey for regular turkey in recipes?
    Absolutely! Wild turkey can be used in any recipe that calls for turkey, but keep in mind that it may cook differently due to its leaner nature.
  4. What’s the best way to ensure wild turkey stays moist while cooking?
    Marinating, brining, and using a meat thermometer to check for doneness are all excellent methods to ensure your wild turkey stays juicy.
Wild Turkey Recipes​

Wild Turkey Recipes​

Jennifer Ryan
Discover 16 wild turkey recipes that will elevate your dinner game! From savory dishes to festive feasts, there’s something for everyone!
No ratings yet
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 25 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 155 kcal

Instructions
 

  • Select all your favorite wild turkey recipes!
  • Organize all the required ingredients for your chosen wild turkey recipes.
  • Prepare your wild turkey recipe and enjoy.

Nutrition

Calories: 155kcal
Keyword christmas turkey, Thanksgiving, turkey
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Now that you have a better understanding of wild turkey and how to prepare it, you’re ready to explore its potential in your kitchen! Whether you’re looking to impress your guests at Thanksgiving or create a memorable Christmas feast, incorporating wild turkey into your holiday recipes is a great way to elevate your dining experience. Check out our collection of festive Thanksgiving and Christmas recipes that highlight wild turkey’s unique flavors.