Description
This comforting recipe features tender, flavorful turkey wings smothered in a rich homemade gravy. The wings are first seared to develop a golden crust, then slow-baked in a savory gravy infused with onions, garlic, and herbs until fall-off-the-bone tender. Perfect served over mashed potatoes, rice, or dressing, this dish brings rustic, Southern-inspired flavors to your dinner table with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
Scale
Turkey Wings
- 4 whole turkey wings (split at joints)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons seasoned salt (like Lawry’s)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Gravy
- 1 large yellow onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat and Season: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pat the turkey wings dry with paper towels. In a bowl or directly on a baking sheet, season the wings evenly with seasoned salt, smoked paprika, black pepper, and drizzle with olive oil, making sure to coat all sides.
- Sear the Wings: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the turkey wings and sear them for about 3–4 minutes per side until they develop a golden-brown crust. Remove the wings and transfer them to a baking dish.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until they become soft and golden, about 5–7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Make the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onions and garlic, stirring constantly to combine and cook the flour for 1–2 minutes. This creates the roux which will thicken the gravy.
- Prepare the Gravy: Slowly whisk in the chicken broth to the roux mixture, stirring constantly to ensure a smooth gravy. Add the Worcestershire sauce (if using), thyme, and salt. Continue to simmer and stir until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.
- Combine and Bake: Pour the prepared gravy evenly over the turkey wings in the baking dish. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to lock in moisture. Bake in the preheated oven for 1.5 to 2 hours until the turkey wings are very tender and the flavors meld.
- Optional Broil: For a caramelized, slightly crispy top, uncover the baking dish and broil the turkey wings for 3–5 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Serve: Serve the smothered turkey wings hot with the rich gravy spooned over the top. They pair beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite dressing for a hearty meal.
Notes
- Splitting the turkey wings at the joints helps them cook more evenly and become more tender.
- Using a roux-based gravy thickens the sauce and adds a rich, smooth texture.
- Worcestershire sauce is optional but adds a nice depth of flavor and umami to the gravy.
- Covering the dish tightly during baking ensures the wings stay moist and tender.
- Broiling at the end is optional but recommended for added color and texture.
- This dish pairs well with classic Southern sides like collard greens, cornbread, or mashed potatoes.
