18 Flavorful Turkey Stock Recipes Creative

Photo of author
Written By Lorraine Koller

DIY expert, architect, 20+ years in crafting, home improvement, and interior design.

Are you looking to elevate your soups, stews, and sauces with a rich, savory flavor? Look no further than turkey stock! With its deep, umami taste, homemade turkey stock is a game-changer for any dish. But why settle for the same old recipe when you can mix things up with some creative twists?

In this article, we’ll explore 18 flavorful turkey stock recipes that will take your cooking to the next level. From classic and comforting to bold and adventurous, these recipes use a variety of ingredients and techniques to create unique and delicious flavors. Whether you’re looking for a simple base for soups and sauces or a show-stopping centerpiece for your holiday table, we’ve got you covered.

Classic Homemade Turkey Stock

Turkeys are the perfect centerpiece for any special occasion, but their rich flavor can be even more elevated with a flavorful homemade stock. This classic recipe yields a delicious and versatile base for soups, sauces, and cooking.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs turkey bones (neck, back, and wings)
– 4 cups water
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the turkey bones in a single layer on a baking sheet for 30 minutes.
3. In a large stockpot, combine the roasted bones, water, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, thyme, and peppercorns.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 6-8 hours or overnight.
5. Strain the stock through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot or container. Discard solids.
6. Refrigerate or freeze the stock as desired.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours or overnight

Herb-Infused Turkey Stock

Elevate your soups, sauces, and braises with a rich and flavorful turkey stock infused with herbs. This recipe is perfect for using up leftover turkey carcasses and creating a delicious base for your favorite dishes.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs turkey carcass (neck, back, wings, and legs)
– 4 cups water
– 1 large onion, quartered
– 3 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
– 1 bay leaf

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the turkey carcass in a large roasting pan or Dutch oven.
3. Add the onion, garlic, thyme, and rosemary around the turkey.
4. Pour in the water, making sure the turkey is fully submerged.
5. Roast for 30 minutes, then transfer to a slow cooker or stovetop.
6. Simmer for at least 8 hours, or overnight, until the stock has reduced slightly and the flavors have melded together.

Cooking Time: 8-12 hours

Roasted Turkey Bone Stock

This recipe transforms leftover turkey bones into a rich and flavorful stock perfect for soups, sauces, or cooking grains. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be rewarded with a delicious and nutritious liquid gold.

Ingredients:

– 2-3 lbs roasted turkey bones (necks, backs, and wings)
– 4 quarts water
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the turkey bones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Roast the bones in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and caramelized.
4. In a large stockpot, combine the roasted bones, water, apple cider vinegar, and thyme.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 6-8 hours, or overnight.
6. Strain the stock through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container. Discard the solids.
7. Season the stock with salt to taste.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours

Spicy Turkey Stock with Jalapeños

Add a kick to your cooking with this flavorful and aromatic stock made with turkey, jalapeños, and herbs. Perfect for soups, stews, or as a base for your favorite recipes.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs turkey necks or bones
– 4 cups water
– 2 jalapeño peppers, sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large roasting pan, combine turkey bones, jalapeños, onion, and garlic.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until lightly browned.
4. Transfer the mixture to a large pot or stockpot, along with water, thyme, and black pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 6-8 hours, or overnight.
6. Strain the stock through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot or container. Discard solids.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours

Garlic and Thyme Turkey Stock

Rich and flavorful turkey stock infused with garlic and thyme, perfect for soups, sauces, or cooking grains. This aromatic broth is a staple in many kitchens, elevating the flavors of any dish.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs turkey bones (neck, back, and wings)
– 4 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
– 1/4 cup fresh thyme leaves
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 6 cups water
– Salt (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast turkey bones in the oven for 30 minutes, or until lightly browned.
3. In a large stockpot, combine roasted bones, garlic, thyme, carrots, and celery.
4. Pour in water, making sure that all ingredients are covered.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
6. Let cook for 6-8 hours or overnight.
7. Strain the stock through a fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl or another pot. Discard solids.
8. Season with salt, if desired.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours

Smoky Turkey Stock with Paprika

Elevate your soups and sauces with this rich and flavorful turkey stock infused with smokiness from paprika. Perfect for adding depth to a variety of dishes.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs turkey necks or wings
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the turkey necks or wings, garlic, smoked paprika, and thyme. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
6. Transfer the pot to the preheated oven and simmer for 4-5 hours, or until the stock is rich and flavorful.
7. Strain the stock through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container. Discard the solids.

Cooking Time: 4-5 hours

Asian-Inspired Turkey Stock with Ginger

Elevate your cooking with this aromatic stock infused with the warmth of ginger and the depth of turkey. Perfect for soups, sauces, or risottos.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs turkey bones (neck, back, and wings)
– 4 cups water
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the turkey bones in a single layer on a baking sheet for 30 minutes.
3. In a large stockpot, combine the roasted bones, sliced ginger, garlic, carrots, celery, and onion.
4. Pour in the water and add soy sauce if using.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 6-8 hours or overnight.
6. Strain the stock through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot or container. Discard solids.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours

Citrus-Enhanced Turkey Stock

Elevate your cooking with a flavorful turkey stock infused with the zest of citrus. This recipe is perfect for soups, sauces, and braises.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs turkey bones (necks, backs, or wings)
– 4 cups water
– 1 onion, quartered
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 1 orange, sliced
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp dried thyme

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the turkey bones in a single layer on a baking sheet for 30 minutes.
3. In a large pot, combine roasted bones, onion, garlic, lemon slices, orange slices, apple cider vinegar, and thyme.
4. Pour in water, making sure all ingredients are submerged.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 6-8 hours or overnight.
6. Strain the stock through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot or container.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours

Vegetable-Packed Turkey Stock

This rich and flavorful stock is a staple for any home cook, perfect for soups, stews, or sauces. With an abundance of vegetables, this stock is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs turkey bones (backbone, neck, and wings)
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as mushrooms, zucchini, bell peppers)
– 4 quarts water
– Salt (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the turkey bones in the oven for 30 minutes.
3. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery in a little water until tender.
4. Add the roasted turkey bones, mixed vegetables, and water to the pot.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 6-8 hours or overnight.
6. Strain the stock through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot or container. Discard solids.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours

Mushroom and Sage Turkey Stock

Elevate your cooking with this comforting and flavorful turkey stock infused with the earthy goodness of mushrooms and the warm, herbal notes of sage. Perfect for soups, sauces, or as a base for roasted vegetables.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs turkey bones (neck, back, and wings)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 4 sprigs fresh sage
– 1 large onion, quartered
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 6 cups chicken or turkey broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the turkey bones in a single layer on a baking sheet for 30 minutes.
3. In a large stockpot, combine roasted bones, mushrooms, sage, onion, garlic, broth, and thyme.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 6 hours.
5. Strain the stock through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot or containers. Discard solids.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 6 hours

Caramelized Onion Turkey Stock

Elevate your turkey dishes with a rich and savory stock infused with the deep flavors of caramelized onions. This recipe is perfect for soups, stews, or as a base for your favorite sauces.

Ingredients:

– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups turkey drippings (from roasted turkey)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are dark golden brown and caramelized.
2. Add the chicken broth and turkey drippings to the pan. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes.
3. Remove the pan from the heat and let it cool slightly. Strain the stock through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container. Discard the solids.
4. Add the thyme, salt, and pepper to the stock. Let it cool completely before refrigerating or freezing.

Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes

Rosemary and Lemon Turkey Stock

Elevate your soups and sauces with this aromatic and flavorful turkey stock infused with rosemary and lemon. Perfect for cooking enthusiasts and busy home cooks alike!

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs turkey carcass (neck, back, and wings)
– 4 cups water
– 1/4 cup fresh rosemary leaves
– 2 lemons, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the turkey carcass on a baking sheet and roast for 30 minutes.
3. In a large pot, combine roasted turkey carcass, water, rosemary leaves, lemon slices, onion, garlic, and salt.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 6-8 hours or overnight.
5. Strain the stock through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container. Discard solids.
6. Refrigerate or freeze for later use.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours

Peppercorn and Bay Leaf Turkey Stock

This rich and aromatic stock is perfect for soups, sauces, and braises. The peppercorns add a subtle warmth while the bay leaves provide a savory depth.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs turkey necks or backs
– 4 cups water
– 1/4 cup whole black peppercorns
– 6-8 fresh bay leaves
– 2 carrots, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the turkey parts and place them in a large roasting pan.
3. Add the water, peppercorns, and bay leaves to the pan.
4. If using carrots, add them to the pan as well.
5. Roast the mixture in the oven for 30 minutes.
6. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
7. Strain the stock through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a large bowl or pot.
8. Discard the solids and use the stock immediately, or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Curry-Spiced Turkey Stock

Elevate your soups and stews with this flavorful and aromatic curry-spiced turkey stock, perfect for adding depth and warmth to any dish. This recipe is a great way to use leftover turkey bones and vegetables.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs turkey bones (necks, backs, wings)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1 bay leaf
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the turkey bones, onion, garlic, carrots, and celery for 30 minutes.
3. Transfer the roasted mixture to a large pot or stockpot.
4. Add cumin, curry powder, and bay leaf.
5. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat and simmer for 2 hours.
7. Strain the stock through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot or container.

Cooking Time: 2 hours

Chipotle and Lime Turkey Stock

Add a burst of flavor to your dishes with this bold and zesty turkey stock infused with the warmth of chipotle peppers and the brightness of lime. This versatile stock is perfect for soups, stews, or as a base for sauces.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs turkey bones (neck, back, and wing tips)
– 1 large onion, roughly chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, seeded and chopped
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 6 cups chicken broth
– 2 carrots, roughly chopped
– 2 celery stalks, roughly chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the turkey bones in a single layer on a baking sheet for 30 minutes.
3. In a large stockpot, combine roasted bones, onion, garlic, chipotle pepper, and lime juice.
4. Pour in chicken broth and add carrots and celery.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 6-8 hours or overnight.
6. Strain the stock through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot or container.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours

Parsley and Celery Turkey Stock

This flavorful stock is a great addition to any dish, from soups to sauces. With the brightness of parsley and the earthiness of celery, it’s sure to elevate your cooking.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs turkey bones (necks, backs, or wings)
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast turkey bones on a baking sheet for 30 minutes.
3. In a large pot, combine roasted bones, celery, parsley, garlic, and thyme.
4. Pour in chicken broth and water, making sure all ingredients are covered.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 6-8 hours or overnight.
6. Strain stock through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot, discarding solids.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours

Slow-Cooked Turkey Stock

Stock up on flavor with this simple and aromatic slow-cooked turkey stock recipe! Perfect for soups, stews, or cooking grains, this rich and savory liquid gold is a staple in any kitchen.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs turkey bones (neck, back, and wings)
– 4 cups water
– 1 onion, quartered
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp dried bay leaves

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the turkey bones in a single layer on a baking sheet for 30 minutes.
3. In a large slow cooker, combine roasted bones, water, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, thyme, and bay leaves.
4. Cook on low for 24-48 hours or high for 12-16 hours.
5. Strain the stock through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot or container.
6. Discard solids and refrigerate or freeze for later use.

Cooking Time: 24-48 hours (low) or 12-16 hours (high)

Low-Sodium Turkey Stock

This recipe makes a flavorful and healthy turkey stock with minimal sodium content, perfect for soups, stews, or cooking grains. By using aromatics like onion and carrot, this stock is packed with flavor without relying on salt.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs turkey necks and backs (or 1 lb ground turkey)
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 tsp dried thyme

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. If using turkey necks and backs, place them in the oven for 30 minutes to brown.
3. In a large stockpot, combine browned turkey, chicken broth, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and thyme.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 6-8 hours or overnight.
5. Strain the stock through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot or container. Discard solids.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours

Summary

Discover the versatility of turkey stock with these 18 creative recipes! From classic homemade to smoky and spicy, each variation offers a unique flavor profile. Try making a Herb-Infused Turkey Stock for a savory broth or a Spicy Turkey Stock with Jalapeños for an added kick. For a comforting twist, make a Garlic and Thyme Turkey Stock or a Caramelized Onion Turkey Stock. Whether you’re cooking up a hearty stew or simply need a base for soups and sauces, these turkey stock recipes will elevate your meals to the next level.

Leave a Comment