Slow Cooker Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey is a timeless dish that embraces the warmth and hospitality of Southern cooking. This comforting recipe is easy to prepare and fills your home with the down-home aroma of simmering greens and smoky turkey.
The crockpot makes this dish a breeze, allowing you to enjoy the classic flavors without spending hours in the kitchen.
Collard greens are a staple in Southern cuisine, often served as a side dish during family gatherings and holiday feasts. Believed to have originated from Africa, collard greens were brought to America and families adapted their cooking methods to utilize local ingredients.
Cooked with ham hocks or smoked turkey, this dish is celebrated for its deep, savory flavors, and prosperity and wealth for the New Year in Southern U.S. traditions.
Why We Love This Recipe:
- Flavorful and Comforting: The combination of smoky turkey, savory spices, and tender collard greens creates a dish that warms the soul.
- Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps and a slow cooker, you can prepare a hearty meal without the fuss.
- Healthy: Collard greens are wholesome, making this dish a perfect choice for any meal.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This recipe yields plenty of servings, making it ideal for leftovers or meal prepping for the week.
If you like this Southern recipe, you may also love our Instant Pot Black-Eyed Peas, flavorful Cajun Red Beans and Rice, or our Old Fashioned Skillet Cornbread.
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What Ingredients Will You Need?
- Smoked Turkey Leg or Wing and Bacon: Adds a rich, smoky flavor to the greens.
- Large Onion: Provides a sweet and savory base.
- Garlic: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: Keeps the dish flavorful without excess salt.
- Seasonings: Crushed red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, Cajun seasoning to add depth and heat.
- Fresh Collard Greens: The star of the dish, providing texture and nutrients.
- Vinegar: A splash of acidity that brightens the flavors.
- Brown Sugar: Optional for sweetness.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
Note: Refer to the recipe card below for exact quantities.
Instructions
How To Make Slow Cooker Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey
STEP ONE: Prepare the Bacon and Slow Cooker
Cook ½ pound of chopped bacon according to package instructions, reserving two teaspoons of bacon fat.
In the slow cooker, place the cooked bacon, smoked turkey leg or wing, and reserved bacon fat at the bottom.
STEP TWO: Add Aromatics
Layer the chopped onion and minced garlic on top of the turkey.
STEP THREE: Pour in Broth and Seasonings
Add the low-sodium chicken broth, then sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, brown sugar (if using), and Cajun seasoning.
STEP FOUR: Add Collard Greens and Cook
Layer the chopped collard greens on top, cover, and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the greens are tender.
Before serving, shred the turkey meat and mix it back into the greens. Stir in vinegar and adjust seasoning as desired.
What Are Some Good Substitutions?
- Smoked Turkey: If you don’t have smoked turkey, try using ham hocks or smoked sausage for a similar flavor.
- Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian option if you omit the turkey.
- Vinegar: White vinegar can be substituted for apple cider vinegar for a slightly different taste.
How Can You Change This Recipe Up?
- Diet: Make it vegetarian by omitting the meat and using vegetable broth.
- Flavor: Experiment with different spices like cumin or thyme to change the flavor profile.
- Presentation: Serve the collard greens over rice or with cornbread for a heartier meal.
How Should You Store This?
Store any leftover slow cooker collard greens in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
For longer storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Note: Refer to Top Tips below for more storage and reheating tips.
What Are Some Expert Tips?
For the best flavor, allow the collard greens to simmer on low for 6 hours. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to blend.
If you prefer a spicier dish, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce before serving.
To reheat, warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through, adding a splash of broth if necessary to maintain moisture.
More Recipes You'll Love ♥️
Have Leftover Ingredients?
- Use onion in soups, stews, or stir-fries for added flavor.
- Garlic is perfect for seasoning meats or vegetables in various dishes.
- Chicken broth can be used for making risottos, sauces, or cooking grains.
Need Something To Pair This With?
- Old Fashioned Skillet Cornbread is a classic Southern side that complements the greens perfectly.
- The crispy texture and savory flavor of fried chicken makes it a delicious pairing.
- Our Southern Smothered Potatoes Recipe balances the greens and adds comfort to the meal.
In The Mood For a Similar Dish?
- Instant Pot Black Eyed Peas
- Cajun Red Beans and Rice
- Old Fashioned Skillet Cornbread
Related
More Cajun recipes you will love:
FAQ
Cooking collard greens in a crockpot typically takes 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high, depending on the tenderness you prefer.
Both smoked turkey and ham hocks work well for collard greens, but smoked turkey is a leaner option that still adds a deep, smoky flavor to the dish.
To reduce bitterness in collard greens, cook them with savory ingredients like smoked turkey and season with apple cider vinegar or lemon juice for a balanced flavor.
📖 Recipe
Slow Cooker Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey: Delicious Southern Recipe
Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Chopping board
- Knife
- Measuring Spoons
- Mixing spoon
Ingredients
- 2 bunches collard greens cleaned and chopped (approximately 1 ½ pounds)
- 1 smoked turkey leg or wing
- ½ pound bacon chopped
- 1 large onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 4 cups low sodium chicken broth
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar optional
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook ½ pound of chopped bacon according to package instructions, reserving two teaspoons of bacon fat.
- In the slow cooker, place the cooked bacon, smoked turkey leg or wing, and reserved bacon fat at the bottom. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic on top of the turkey.
- Pour in the low sodium chicken broth. Sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, brown sugar (if using), and cajun seasoning.
- Layer the chopped collard greens on top of the mixture. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the collard greens are tender and the flavors blend together.
- Before serving, remove the smoked turkey, shred the meat, and mix it back into the greens. Stir in the vinegar and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Add hot sauce if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- Smoked Turkey: If you don’t have smoked turkey, try using ham hocks or smoked sausage for a similar flavor.
- Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian option if you omit the turkey.
- Vinegar: White vinegar can be substituted for apple cider vinegar for a slightly different taste.
Nutrition
Southern Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey is a well-loved dish that brings together rich flavors, cultural significance, and ease of preparation.
Try it today and enjoy the comforting taste of Southern hospitality right in your kitchen! Don't forget to let us know what you think!
Important Food Safety Tips
Refrigerate leftover slow cooker collard greens in airtight containers within two hours to keep them fresh. When reheating, ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
- Create a clean work area.
- Wash hands after touching raw meat or seafood.
- Rinse fresh produce thoroughly.
- Do not use the same cutting board or utensils on cooked food or produce, that previously touched raw meat or seafood.
- Do not leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods.
- Never leave cooking food unattended.
- Use oils with a high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds.
- Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove.
See more guidelines at USDA.gov.
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