The smell of smoky goodness wafting from the kitchen – there’s nothing quite like it during the holidays. And what better way to impress your guests than with a perfectly smoked turkey? Whether you’re hosting a classic Thanksgiving dinner or a festive Christmas party, we’ve got 20 delicious smoked turkey recipes to make your holiday season merry and bright.
From classic herb butter to spicy Cajun legs and everything in between, our collection of smoked turkey recipes is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. And don’t worry if you’re new to smoking – many of these recipes are easy enough for beginners to try. So go ahead, fire up your smoker (or use a slow cooker), and get ready to wow your guests with the most mouthwatering turkey dishes they’ve ever tasted.
Classic Smoked Turkey with Herb Butter
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this classic smoked turkey recipe, perfectly paired with a rich and flavorful herb butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1 cup wood chips (your choice of hickory, apple, or cherry)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, rosemary)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Herb Butter:
+ 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
+ 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
+ 1 tablespoon lemon zest
+ 1 clove garlic, minced
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. Rinse turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, and herbs. Rub mixture all over turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Place turkey in smoker and cook for about 10 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. Meanwhile, prepare herb butter by mixing all ingredients in a small bowl until well combined.
6. When turkey is done, let it rest for 30 minutes before carving. Serve with warm herb butter.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10 hours
Honey Glazed Smoked Turkey Breast
Elevate your holiday table with this sweet and savory honey glazed smoked turkey breast recipe. This impressive main course is perfect for special occasions and can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together honey, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Place turkey breast in the smoker and brush with the honey glaze 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 and serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Applewood Smoked Turkey with Garlic Rub
Transform your turkey game with this mouthwatering recipe that combines the rich flavor of applewood smoke with a pungent garlic rub. This show-stopper is perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 lb) whole turkey
– 1/4 cup Applewood Smoked Salt
– 2 cloves Garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp Olive Oil
– 2 tsp Dried Thyme
– 1 tsp Ground Black Pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together smoked salt, garlic, olive oil, thyme, and black pepper.
3. Rub the garlic mixture all over the turkey, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the turkey in the smoker, breast side up.
5. Smoke for 6-8 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let rest for 30 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Spicy Cajun Smoked Turkey Legs
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with these succulent Spicy Cajun Smoked Turkey Legs, infused with the bold flavors of the Bayou. Perfect for a backyard BBQ or camping trip, this recipe yields tender and juicy turkey legs smothered in a spicy Cajun blend.
Ingredients:
– 4 turkey legs
– 1 cup Cajun seasoning mix (containing paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, thyme)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 gallon wood chips (hickory or oak)
– 1 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, brown sugar, and smoked paprika.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the turkey legs, making sure to coat them evenly.
4. Place the turkey legs in the smoker, close the lid, and smoke for 4-5 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. During the last hour of smoking, baste the turkey legs with apple cider vinegar every 20 minutes.
6. Remove the turkey legs from the smoker and let them rest for 15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 4-5 hours
Maple Bourbon Smoked Turkey
Elevate your holiday feast with this sweet and savory twist on traditional turkey. This recipe combines the richness of bourbon, the depth of maple syrup, and the tender smoke of wood to create a truly unforgettable dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup wood chips (such as apple or cherry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, bourbon, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Place the turkey in the smoker, breast side up.
5. Smoke for 6-8 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. Let the turkey rest for 30 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Smoked Turkey and Cranberry Panini
Smoked Turkey and Cranberry Panini Recipe
Elevate your lunch game with this sweet and savory combination of smoked turkey, cranberry sauce, and creamy brie cheese on crispy baguette.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of baguette
– 2 oz smoked turkey breast
– 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup crumbled brie cheese
– Fresh arugula leaves (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Lay slices of baguette on a flat surface.
3. Spread cranberry sauce on two slices, leaving a 1/2 inch border at the edges.
4. Top with smoked turkey breast, honey, and crumbled brie cheese.
5. Place the other bread slice on top to form a sandwich.
6. Cook in the panini press or grill for 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
7. Garnish with fresh arugula leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Smoked Turkey and Wild Rice Soup
A hearty and comforting soup that combines the rich flavors of smoked turkey with the earthy goodness of wild rice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed wild rice blend
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 lb cooked smoked turkey breast, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine wild rice blend and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 40 minutes or until the rice is tender.
2. Add diced smoked turkey, chopped onion, minced garlic, frozen corn kernels, and dried thyme to the pot. Stir well to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Simmer the soup for an additional 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 55 minutes
Smoked Turkey Tacos with Avocado Salsa
Elevate your taco game with this unique combination of smoky turkey, creamy avocado salsa, and crunchy tortillas. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked turkey breast, sliced
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Avocado Salsa (see below)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced onions, crumbled queso fresco
Avocado Salsa:
– 3 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the sliced turkey and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to several hours in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Cook the turkey for 5-7 minutes per side, or until heated through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with sliced turkey, Avocado Salsa, and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoked Turkey and Swiss Cheese Sliders
These bite-sized sliders are perfect for a quick snack or gathering. Smoked turkey, melted Swiss cheese, and tangy slaw all come together to create a flavor combination that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked turkey breast, sliced
– 4 Swiss cheese slices
– 8 small slider buns
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 cup shredded cabbage and carrot mix (coleslaw)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Assemble the sliders by spreading mayonnaise on the bottom bun, followed by a slice of smoked turkey, a slice of Swiss cheese, and a spoonful of coleslaw.
3. Top with the top bun.
4. Grill the sliders for about 5 minutes per side, or until the cheese is melted and the buns are toasted.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Smoked Turkey and Bacon Club Sandwich
Elevate your lunch game with this mouthwatering club sandwich featuring smoked turkey, crispy bacon, and creamy avocado. Perfect for a satisfying meal or impressive gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of white bread
– 8 oz smoked turkey breast, sliced
– 6 slices of cooked bacon
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 2 lettuce leaves
– 2 tomato slices
– Mayonnaise (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a pan or griddle over medium heat.
2. Cook the bacon until crispy; set aside.
3. Layer two slices of bread with smoked turkey, bacon, avocado, lettuce, and tomato.
4. Drizzle with mayonnaise if desired.
5. Top with remaining bread slices to complete the sandwich.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including prep time)
Smoked Turkey and Gouda Mac and Cheese
Smoked Turkey and Gouda Mac and Cheese Recipe
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with the addition of smoky turkey and creamy Gouda cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1/2 cup grated Gouda cheese
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped smoked turkey breast, cooked and shredded
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Add milk, Gouda cheese, cheddar cheese, and smoked turkey breast. Stir until smooth and heated through.
5. Combine cooked macaroni with the cheese mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and top with additional grated Gouda cheese (optional).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown on top.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Smoked Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this unique and flavorful twist on traditional stuffed shells. Smoked turkey and wilted spinach add a rich and savory element to this comforting dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound smoked turkey breast, diced
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, combine diced turkey, spinach, and garlic. Cook until heated through.
4. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
5. Stuff each pasta shell with the turkey-spinach mixture, followed by a spoonful of the ricotta mixture.
6. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish, top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoked Turkey and Mushroom Risotto
Elevate your risotto game with this creamy and savory dish featuring smoked turkey and earthy mushrooms. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1/2 cup smoked turkey breast, diced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start browning, about 5 minutes.
4. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
6. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in smoked turkey, Parmesan cheese, and white wine (if using).
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 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.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cornbread, crumbled
– 2 cups chopped celery
– 1 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1/2 cup diced smoked turkey breast
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté celery, onion, and garlic until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, combine crumbled cornbread, cooked vegetable mixture, parsley, broth, cream, salt, and pepper.
4. Add melted butter and diced smoked turkey breast to the bowl; toss until well combined.
5. Pour stuffing mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Smoked Turkey and Sweet Potato Hash
Get ready for a flavorful twist on traditional hash! This recipe combines the richness of smoked turkey with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, all wrapped up in a crispy, savory package.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup smoked turkey, shredded
– 1/4 cup chopped yellow onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon of the olive oil, salt, and pepper until coated.
3. Spread sweet potatoes on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and lightly caramelized.
4. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add shredded smoked turkey to the skillet and stir to combine with the onion mixture. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Combine roasted sweet potatoes with the turkey mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Smoked Turkey and Black Bean Chili
Warm up with this hearty, smoky chili that combines the flavors of smoked turkey, black beans, and spices for a deliciously comforting meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked turkey breast, diced
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños, shredded cheese, sour cream, and cilantro for topping
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper over medium-high heat until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add the diced turkey, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoked Turkey and Cheddar Quesadillas
Savory smoked turkey pairs perfectly with melted cheddar cheese inside a crispy tortilla, making for a satisfying snack or meal. These quesadillas are easy to make and can be customized to your taste.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup shredded smoked turkey
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: salsa, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each tortilla.
3. Place one tortilla, buttered side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with shredded turkey, cheese, onion, and jalapeño pepper.
5. Fold tortilla in half to enclose filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until tortilla is crispy and cheese is melted.
7. Flip quesadilla and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until other side is also crispy.
8. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Smoked Turkey and Pear Salad with Walnuts
This refreshing salad combines the smoky flavor of smoked turkey with the sweetness of pears, all tied together with crunchy walnuts and a tangy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup smoked turkey breast, diced
– 1 ripe pear (such as Bartlett or Anjou), diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh arugula
– 1/4 cup toasted walnut halves
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the turkey, pear, and arugula.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
3. Pour the dressing over the turkey mixture and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle the toasted walnuts over the top of the salad and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Smoked Turkey and Brie Croissants
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with these buttery, flaky croissants filled with smoky turkey and creamy brie cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup smoked turkey breast, diced
– 1/4 cup brie cheese, crumbled
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Cut into 6 equal rectangles.
4. In the center of each rectangle, place 1 tablespoon diced turkey and 1 tablespoon crumbled brie cheese.
5. Fold the dough over the filling, forming a triangle or a square shape. Press edges together to seal.
6. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Place croissants on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
8. Bake for 20-22 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Smoked Turkey and Asparagus Quiche
This quiche is a perfect brunch or dinner option, featuring the rich flavors of smoked turkey and asparagus. The combination of flaky crust, creamy eggs, and savory fillings makes for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust
– 2 cups asparagus, chopped
– 1/2 cup smoked turkey breast, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan.
3. In a skillet, sauté asparagus, onion, and smoked turkey until tender.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, and thyme.
5. Add cooked filling mixture to the egg mixture and stir well.
6. Pour into pie crust and bake for 35-40 minutes or until set.
7. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese (if using) and return to oven for an additional 5 minutes.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your holiday gatherings with these mouthwatering smoked turkey recipes! From classic pairings like Herb Butter to bold twists like Spicy Cajun and Maple Bourbon, there’s something for everyone. Try pairing your smoked turkey with sweet and tangy Cranberry Panini or savory Swiss Cheese Sliders. For a comforting bowl, opt for Wild Rice Soup or Black Bean Chili. And don’t forget the sweet treats – Smoked Turkey and Pear Salad with Walnuts is a game-changer. With these 20 delicious recipes, you’ll be the star of any holiday table.