The smoky flavor of a perfectly cooked turkey can elevate even the most mundane meals to new heights. And when you combine that rich, meaty taste with a medley of delicious ingredients, the result is nothing short of mouth-watering. In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 savory smoked turkey recipes that will take your cooking game to the next level. From classic dishes like Smoked Turkey with Herb Butter and Hickory Smoked Whole Turkey, to more innovative creations like Maple-Glazed Smoked Turkey Legs and Spicy Cajun Smoked Turkey Wings, there’s something for everyone in this collection of smoky delights.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking to impress your friends and family, these recipes are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates. And with a range of flavors and textures on offer, you’ll never be stuck for inspiration again. So why wait? Dive in and discover the incredible world of savory smoked turkey recipes!
Smoked Turkey with Herb Butter
This recipe elevates a classic turkey dish by infusing it with the rich flavor of smoked turkey and a compound butter made with fresh herbs. The result is a mouthwatering centerpiece for any special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) whole turkey
– 1 cup wood chips (such as apple or cherry)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. Season turkey with salt and pepper.
3. Smoke turkey for 4-5 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
4. Meanwhile, mix together butter, parsley, thyme, and lemon zest.
5. Once turkey is done, slather herb butter all over the surface.
6. Let turkey rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (smoking) + 10-15 minutes (resting)
Applewood Smoked Turkey Breast
Elevate your turkey game with this tender and flavorful Applewood Smoked Turkey Breast recipe. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals, this dish is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) boneless turkey breast
– 1/4 cup Applewood smoke seasoning blend
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the Applewood smoke seasoning blend, brown sugar, honey, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the turkey breast, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the turkey breast in the smoker, fat side up.
5. Smoke for 2-3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Hickory Smoked Whole Turkey
Bring the flavors of the Deep South to your holiday table with this classic Hickory Smoked Whole Turkey recipe. The result is a juicy, tender bird with a rich, smoky flavor that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1 cup hickory wood chips
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together hickory wood chips, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff the turkey cavity with the mixture.
4. Place the turkey in the smoker, breast side up.
5. Smoke for 8-10 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. Baste the turkey with water every hour to keep it moist.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Maple-Glazed Smoked Turkey Legs
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of this maple-glazed smoked turkey leg recipe, perfect for a special occasion or everyday delight.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 turkey legs (thawed)
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the glaze all over the turkey legs, making sure they’re fully coated.
4. Place the turkey legs in the smoker, close the lid, and smoke for 2-1/2 to 3 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Remove the turkey legs from the smoker and let them rest for 15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Smoked Turkey and Cranberry Panini
A sweet and savory twist on the classic sandwich, this Smoked Turkey and Cranberry Panini combines the rich flavors of smoked turkey with the tanginess of cranberries.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread ( Ciabatta or Baguette work well)
– 2 oz smoked turkey breast
– 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
– 1/4 cup crumbled Brie cheese
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh arugula leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Lay two slices of bread on a flat surface.
3. Spread cranberry sauce on one slice, followed by smoked turkey breast.
4. Top with crumbled Brie cheese and drizzle with honey.
5. Place the second slice of bread on top to create a sandwich.
6. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
7. Garnish with fresh arugula leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Citrus Brined Smoked Turkey
This recipe combines the brightness of citrus with the rich flavor of smoked turkey, perfect for a special occasion or everyday meal. The citrus brine adds a depth of flavor and tenderizes the meat to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1 cup kosher salt
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1 gallon water
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine kosher salt, brown sugar, and water. Heat until dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and stir in orange juice, lemon juice, smoked paprika, and black pepper.
3. Submerge turkey in brine and refrigerate for 24 hours.
4. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
5. Remove turkey from brine and pat dry with paper towels.
6. Smoke turkey for 4-5 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Smoked Turkey and Avocado Salad
This refreshing salad combines the smoky flavor of smoked turkey with creamy avocado, crunchy red onion, and a tangy dressing.
Ingredients:
• 1/2 cup cooked smoked turkey breast
• 1 ripe avocado, diced
• 1/4 cup chopped red onion
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the smoked turkey breast, diced avocado, and chopped red onion.
2. If using feta cheese, crumble it over the top of the salad.
3. Squeeze the lemon juice over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes (prep time only)
Serve: Immediately, garnished with fresh herbs or edible flowers if desired.
Garlic Rosemary Smoked Turkey Thighs
Elevate your turkey game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe that combines the richness of smoked meat with the brightness of garlic and rosemary. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy weekend dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in turkey thighs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, rosemary, olive oil, and smoked paprika.
3. Rub the mixture all over the turkey thighs, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Place the turkey thighs in the smoker, leaving space between each thigh for even cooking.
5. Smoke for 4-6 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-6 hours
Smoked Turkey and Sweet Potato Hash
A hearty breakfast or brunch option that combines the flavors of smoked turkey with sweet potatoes and crispy onions. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a weekend treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked turkey, diced
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with 2 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat remaining 2 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sliced onions and cook for 5-7 minutes or until caramelized.
4. Add diced turkey to the skillet with onions. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. To assemble the hash, combine roasted sweet potatoes, turkey mixture, and chopped parsley (if using). Serve warm.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Spicy Cajun Smoked Turkey Wings
Get ready to add some serious heat to your tailgating or backyard gathering with these mouth-watering Spicy Cajun Smoked Turkey Wings! With a bold blend of cajun spices and a tender, smoky flavor, these wings are sure to be the star of the show.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds turkey wings
– 1/4 cup cajun seasoning
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Remove the tips from the turkey wings and discard. Season the wings with the spice mixture, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Place the wings in the smoker and cook for 2-1/2 hours or until tender.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and apple cider vinegar. Brush the glaze over the wings during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Smoked Turkey and Wild Rice Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of smoky flavor from the smoked turkey and earthy goodness from the wild rice, making it a comforting meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked turkey breast or thighs
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup wild rice
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine chicken broth, wild rice, onion, garlic, and red bell pepper.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes or until the rice is tender.
3. Add diced tomatoes and smoked turkey to the pot. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Honey Mustard Smoked Turkey Sandwich
Elevate your lunch game with this sweet and tangy twist on the classic turkey sandwich. Smoky, savory turkey pairs perfectly with a honey mustard glaze and crunchy lettuce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked turkey breast
– 2 tablespoons honey mustard sauce
– 4 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 lettuce leaves
– 2 tomato slices (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your broiler or toaster oven to warm the bread.
2. Slice the smoked turkey into thin strips.
3. Spread 1-2 tablespoons of honey mustard sauce on each slice of bread.
4. Add a few slices of turkey to each sandwich, followed by a lettuce leaf and a tomato slice (if using).
5. Place the sandwiches under the broiler or in the toaster oven for 1-2 minutes to toast the bread.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Smoked Turkey and Cornbread Stuffing
This recipe combines the savory flavors of smoked turkey with the warm, comforting taste of cornbread stuffing. Perfect for a Thanksgiving or holiday dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cubed cooked smoked turkey breast
– 2 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
3. Add melted butter, crumbled cornbread, cooked turkey, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until combined.
4. Pour in chicken broth and stir until the stuffing is moist but not soggy.
5. Transfer the stuffing mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoked Turkey and Kale Salad
This refreshing salad combines the smoky flavor of smoked turkey with the earthy taste of kale, perfect for a light and healthy meal. The crispy texture of the croutons and tanginess of the dressing add a delightful contrast to this nutritious dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1/2 cup cooked smoked turkey, diced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup crispy croutons (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, massage the kale with olive oil until tender.
3. Add the diced smoked turkey, crumbled feta cheese (if using), and crispy croutons to the bowl.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Peach Glazed Smoked Turkey Breast
This sweet and savory recipe elevates the classic smoked turkey breast with a tangy peach glaze, perfect for a summer BBQ or gathering. The combination of smoky flavors and juicy peach glaze is sure to impress your guests!
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 1 cup peach preserves
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together peach preserves, honey, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Place the turkey breast in the smoker and glaze with the peach mixture every hour for 4-5 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. Remove from heat and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Smoked Turkey and Black Bean Chili
A hearty and flavorful chili that combines the rich flavor of smoked turkey with the bold taste of black beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked turkey breast, diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced turkey over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, black beans, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoked Turkey and Broccoli Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the rich flavor of smoked turkey with the crunch of broccoli and a hint of cheddar cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked smoked turkey breast, diced
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 cup cream of chicken soup
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 1/2 cups whole wheat crackers, crushed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté broccoli in butter until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, mix turkey, cream of chicken soup, and thyme. Stir in milk until smooth.
4. Combine cooked broccoli and turkey mixture; season with salt and pepper.
5. Pour into a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with shredded cheese and crushed crackers.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoked Turkey and Pasta Alfredo
Combine the comforting flavors of smoked turkey and creamy pasta alfredo for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. fettuccine pasta
– 1 lb. cooked smoked turkey breast, diced
– 2 tbsp. butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add diced smoked turkey breast and stir to combine with the garlic and butter mixture. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the turkey and alfredo sauce.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your turkey game with these 18 savory smoked turkey recipes! From classic smoky flavors to creative twists, this collection has something for everyone. Try smoking a whole turkey, just turkey breast, or even turkey legs and wings. Add some herb butter, maple glaze, or spicy Cajun seasoning for an extra boost of flavor. Whether you’re serving up sandwiches, salads, soups, or casseroles, these deliciously smoky recipes are sure to please.
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