Smothered Turkey Wings with Gravy

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Tender, juicy, and packed with Southern flavor—Smothered Turkey Wings with Gravy are a soul food classic that warms both the heart and the stomach. This dish brings together seasoned, roasted turkey wings and a rich, onion-laced brown gravy that soaks into every bite. It’s the kind of comfort food that makes you slow down and savor each mouthful.

Perfect for Sunday dinners, holidays, or any time you’re craving a hearty, stick-to-your-ribs meal, this recipe delivers bold, nostalgic flavor with minimal effort. Serve it over rice, mashed potatoes, or with cornbread on the side and you’ve got a meal that hits every note just right.

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What Kind of Turkey Wings Should I Use?

When making smothered turkey wings, go for fresh or thawed whole turkey wings. These usually include the drumette, flat, and tip. You can keep them whole or ask your butcher to cut them at the joints for easier serving. Fresh turkey wings absorb seasonings better and bake into juicy perfection, especially when smothered in gravy.

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Ingredients for the Smothered Turkey Wings with Gravy

Turkey Wings: The star of the dish—choose plump, meaty wings for best results.

Yellow Onions: Sliced thick, these melt into the gravy, giving it sweetness and body.

Garlic: Fresh cloves add depth and earthy flavor.

Chicken Broth: Forms the base of your gravy and keeps everything juicy.

Butter: Adds richness and helps brown the wings beautifully.

Flour: Needed for thickening the gravy to that luscious consistency.

Smoked Paprika: Adds color and a hint of smoky spice.

Black Pepper + Salt: Basic but essential for balanced seasoning.

Thyme: Brings in an herbaceous note that pairs perfectly with poultry.

Olive Oil: Used for searing and flavor.

Worcestershire Sauce (optional): Adds umami richness to the gravy.

Seasoned Salt (like Lawry’s): Layers in flavor for the turkey before baking.

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How To Make the Smothered Turkey Wings with Gravy

Step 1: Season and Sear the Turkey Wings

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pat your turkey wings dry and season generously with seasoned salt, smoked paprika, black pepper, and a little olive oil. Heat a skillet and sear the wings for about 3-4 minutes per side to lock in flavor and get a golden crust.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté thick slices of yellow onion until softened and golden. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Gravy

Sprinkle in flour and stir continuously to make a roux. Gradually whisk in warm chicken broth, ensuring no lumps form. Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce and thyme. Let it simmer until thickened to a gravy consistency.

Step 4: Bake Everything Together

Place the seared turkey wings in a baking dish. Pour the onion gravy all over the wings, making sure they’re well coated. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat is fall-off-the-bone tender.

Step 5: Serve and Savor

Once done, uncover and broil for 3–5 minutes if you’d like a caramelized top. Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or dressing.

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How to Serve and Store Your Smothered Turkey Wings

Smothered turkey wings are best served warm, generously spooned over a bed of mashed potatoes or fluffy white rice to soak up every bit of that savory gravy. Cornbread or collard greens make perfect sides for a well-rounded, comforting meal.

To store, let leftovers cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth and warm on the stove or in the oven to keep everything moist and flavorful.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when turkey wings are done?

They’re fully cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F and the meat is tender enough to pull apart with a fork.

Can I use turkey legs or thighs instead?

Absolutely! This method works great for any cut of turkey that can handle slow roasting and soaking in gravy.

Can I freeze smothered turkey wings?

Yes. Once cooled, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What if my gravy is too thick?

Just whisk in a bit of extra broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Definitely! After searing and making the gravy, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–7 hours.

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Want More Comfort Food Dinner Ideas?

If you loved these Smothered Turkey Wings with Gravy, you’ll want to check out these other soul-warming favorites:

• Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine
• Cafeteria Noodles with Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
• Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
• One Pot Creamy Chicken Cheddar Ranch Pasta

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you go the slow-cooker route or stick with the oven-bake? Did you spice up the gravy?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook better, smarter, and with flavor that feels like home.

Want even more comfort food ideas? Follow me on Pinterest where I share new recipes every week: Life with Nina Recipes on Pinterest

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