Creamed turkey is a delicious, comforting dish that’s perfect for using up leftover turkey, especially after holiday feasts. Whether you enjoy it over toast, biscuits, or mashed potatoes, this creamy, savory recipe is a crowd-pleaser that warms the soul. If you’ve ever wondered how to make creamed turkey from scratch, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into a simple, flavorful recipe that will have you making this classic comfort food in no time.
What Is Creamed Turkey?
Creamed turkey is essentially shredded or chopped cooked turkey combined with a rich, creamy white sauce. This sauce is typically made from butter, flour, milk or cream, and seasoned with spices and sometimes vegetables like peas or onions. The mixture is heated until thick and luscious, then served hot—often over toasted bread, biscuits, or mashed potatoes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a basic list of ingredients to get started:
– Cooked turkey meat (about 2 pounds, chopped or shredded)
– Butter (2 to 6 tablespoons, depending on recipe size)
– All-purpose flour (2 to 3/4 cup, for thickening)
– Milk and/or heavy cream (2 cups or more for richness)
– Onion (sliced or chopped, optional for flavor)
– Salt and pepper (to taste)
– Seasonings such as garlic powder, onion powder, nutmeg, mustard powder, curry powder, or dried sage (optional but recommended)
– Frozen peas (optional, for a pop of color and sweetness)
– Bread or biscuits (for serving)
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Creamed Turkey
1. Prepare Your Turkey Stock (Optional but Recommended)
If you want to elevate your creamed turkey, start by making a turkey stock. Simmer the turkey carcass in water with some aromatics to create a flavorful broth. Reduce this stock from about a quart to three cups to concentrate the flavor. This homemade stock becomes the base of your creamy sauce and adds depth to the dish.
2. Make the Cream Sauce
– Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
– Add sliced onions and cook until translucent and soft.
– Stir in the flour and cook for about 3 minutes to form a roux, which will thicken your sauce.
– Gradually whisk in the turkey stock (or chicken broth) along with milk and cream, a little at a time, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
– Continue cooking until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.
3. Season the Sauce
Add salt, pepper, and your choice of seasonings such as nutmeg, dry mustard, onion powder, garlic powder, curry powder, or sage. These spices bring warmth and complexity to the sauce.
4. Add the Turkey and Vegetables
Stir in the chopped cooked turkey and thawed peas (if using). Heat gently until the turkey is warmed through and the peas are tender. Be careful not to overcook, as you want the turkey to stay moist and tender.
5. Serve
Serve your creamed turkey over toasted bread, warm biscuits, or mashed potatoes. The creamy sauce soaks into the bread or biscuits, making every bite rich and satisfying.
Tips for the Best Creamed Turkey
– Use leftover turkey from your holiday meal or a rotisserie chicken for convenience.
– Make your own stock if you have time—it adds incredible flavor.
– Don’t skip the roux (butter + flour) as it’s the key to a silky, thick sauce.
– Customize your seasoning to your taste. A pinch of curry powder or sage can add a lovely twist.
– Add peas or onions for texture and color.
– Serve immediately for the best texture, though leftovers reheat well.
Variations to Try
– Creamed Turkey on Toast: A classic Southern comfort food where the creamy turkey mixture is ladled over buttered toast.
– Creamed Turkey Over Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits topped with creamed turkey make a hearty breakfast or brunch.
– Creamed Turkey on Mashed Potatoes: A cozy dinner option where the creamy turkey sauce replaces gravy.
– Southern-Style Creamed Turkey: Includes cream of mushroom soup for extra creaminess and richness.
Creamed turkey is a simple yet indulgent dish that transforms leftover poultry into a comforting meal. With a few ingredients and easy steps, you can enjoy this classic anytime. It’s perfect for cozy nights or when you want to treat yourself to some warm, creamy goodness.
Enjoy your cooking and the delicious results!