Easy Crockpot Smothered Turkey Wings Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For a deeper flavor, you can sear the turkey wings in a hot skillet with a little oil before placing them in the slow cooker. While this adds an extra step, the caramelization of the skin provides a richer, more complex taste to the final gravy.

If you choose to do this, be sure to deglaze the pan with a splash of water or broth and add those browned bits into the slow cooker.

If you find the gravy is too thin once the cooking is complete, you can remove the turkey wings carefully and whisk in a small amount of cornstarch mixed with cold water.

Increase the slow cooker to the high setting for about 15 minutes until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency. Return the wings to the pot just long enough to warm them through before serving to ensure they remain perfectly tender.

Variations

• Spicy Smothered Wings: Add 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix. This introduces a subtle heat that cuts through the richness of the gravy, providing a lively contrast for those who enjoy a bit of spice in their comfort food.
• Herbed Turkey Wings: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme during the last hour of cooking. The addition of these aromatic greens adds a bright, earthy dimension to the dish that pairs exceptionally well with the savory brown gravy and tender turkey meat.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheat

Reheat in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), adding a splash of water if the gravy is too thick.

Allow any leftovers to cool to room temperature for no more than two hours before transferring them to an airtight container. Properly stored, the turkey and gravy will maintain their quality in the refrigerator for up to three days.

When storing, try to keep the meat submerged in the gravy to prevent it from drying out, which helps maintain the texture and flavor for when you decide to reheat the dish for another meal.

This dish is excellent for making ahead of time as the flavors often deepen after sitting in the refrigerator overnight. You can prepare the entire dish, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator.

When you are ready to serve, simply reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the slow cooker until it is heated through. It is a fantastic option for meal planning, providing a ready-to-eat dinner that only requires a quick warming step.

Serving ideas

Serve the smothered turkey wings over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful gravy. The richness of the sauce pairs perfectly with simple starches, allowing the savory profile of the turkey and the sweetness of the cooked peppers and onions to take center stage on the plate.

Consider serving a side of roasted green beans or a crisp garden salad to balance the meal. The freshness of the vegetables provides a nice contrast to the slow-cooked, hearty nature of the turkey wings. Ensure each portion includes plenty of the gravy, as it is the highlight of the dish and enhances the overall eating experience for every guest.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Easy Crockpot Smothered Turkey Wings

Prep 10 minCook 4 hRest 5 minTotal 4 h 15 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 2 lb turkey wing drumettes and flats
• 1 cup onion strips
• 1 cup green bell pepper strips
• 1 tsp poultry seasoning
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 cups brown gravy

Instructions

1. Place the turkey wing drumettes and flats into the base of the slow cooker, ensuring they are arranged in a single layer if possible for even cooking. Scatter the onion strips and green bell pepper strips over the top of the turkey pieces.
2. Sprinkle the poultry seasoning and smoked paprika evenly over the turkey and vegetables. Pour the brown gravy over the entire mixture, making sure the ingredients are well-coated to allow the flavors to meld during the slow cooking process.
3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours. Once the turkey is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), turn off the heat. Let the wings rest for 5 minutes before serving directly from the slow cooker, ensuring the gravy is spooned over each piece.

Contains: gluten

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

450

Protein

35 g

Carbohydrates

12 g

Fat

28 g

Fiber

1.5 g

Sugar

3 g

Sodium

850 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.