Easy Baked Turkey Wings: Juicy, flavorful turkey wings baked to perfection in a creamy mushroom sauce. A simple recipe for a delicious meal your whole family will love!
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There’s something incredibly comforting about a perfectly cooked turkey wing—crispy on the outside, juicy and tender on the inside, all wrapped in a savory, flavorful sauce. If you’re looking for an easy yet delicious recipe that requires minimal preparation and delivers big flavors, this Easy Baked Turkey Wings recipe is exactly what you need.
Turkey wings are often overlooked, but they’re a budget-friendly and versatile option that can be cooked in so many different ways. However, this simple baked recipe is a standout. With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a meal that feels indulgent but is easy enough for any home cook to prepare. The combination of seasoning, baking, and a rich cream of mushroom sauce results in wings that are tender, flavorful, and absolutely satisfying.
In this recipe, turkey wings are seasoned to perfection with a blend of seasoned salt, poultry seasoning, black pepper, and garlic. Then, they’re baked in a casserole dish, first covered to ensure they stay moist, and then uncovered to get that beautiful brown finish. The addition of cream of mushroom soup creates a rich, creamy sauce that brings everything together. You’ll be left with juicy, melt-in-your-mouth turkey wings that everyone will love.
Ready to dive into this deliciously easy recipe? Keep reading to learn how to make these amazing turkey wings, the tools you’ll need, and even some creative variations and tips!
Tools Needed
To make your Easy Baked Turkey Wings, you’ll need a few basic kitchen tools. Here’s a list of the essentials:
- Casserole Dish – A medium to large casserole dish works best for this recipe.
- Measuring Spoons – For accurately measuring your seasonings and ingredients.
- Mixing Bowl – To mix the cream of mushroom soup with water.
- Aluminum Foil – To cover the casserole dish while baking and keep the wings moist.
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) for perfect baking.
- Meat Thermometer (optional) – To check the turkey wings’ internal temperature to ensure they reach 165°F.
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
Turkey Wings
The star of this recipe is the turkey wings themselves. If you prefer, you can substitute with turkey drumsticks or thighs. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the size of the meat.
Seasonings
- Seasoned Salt: Adds a base flavor that’s both salty and savory.
- Poultry Seasoning: A blend of herbs like thyme, sage, and rosemary, giving the dish an aromatic, herby note.
- Black Pepper: For a touch of heat and sharpness.
- Minced Garlic: Fresh garlic provides a rich and savory depth to the wings.
Cream of Mushroom Soup
This canned soup adds a creamy texture and flavor to the dish. If you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute with cream of chicken or cream of celery soup. For a dairy-free alternative, look for a plant-based version of cream of mushroom soup.
Water
Water is used to help create the sauce, but you can substitute it with chicken or turkey broth for an even richer flavor.
How to Make Easy Baked Turkey Wings (Step-by-Step)
Follow these simple steps to make perfectly baked turkey wings that will have everyone asking for more!
- Gather Ingredients
Begin by gathering all your ingredients: turkey wings, seasonings, a can of cream of mushroom soup, and water. Make sure your oven is preheated to 350°F (175°C) to get started. - Prepare the Turkey Wings
Place the turkey wings in a casserole dish. If you’re using onion, scatter chopped onion around the wings for added flavor. Sprinkle the seasoned salt, poultry seasoning, black pepper, and minced garlic on both sides of each wing, making sure they’re evenly coated. - Add Water and Cover
Pour ½ cup of water into the casserole dish around the wings. This helps create steam, which will keep the turkey moist. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the oven. - Bake the Wings
Bake the wings for about 1 hour, or until they’re lightly browned. The foil will trap moisture, allowing the wings to cook slowly and become tender. - Prepare the Mushroom Sauce
While the wings are baking, mix together the cream of mushroom soup and the remaining 1 cup of water in a bowl until smooth. Once the wings are done browning, remove the casserole from the oven and uncover it. - Add the Sauce and Continue Baking
Pour the mushroom soup mixture over the turkey wings, spreading it evenly. Return the dish to the oven and bake for another hour, uncovered, until the wings are browned and tender.
Tips & Variations
Here are a few expert tips and creative variations to elevate your baked turkey wings:
- Marinate the Wings: For even more flavor, marinate the turkey wings in your seasonings and a bit of olive oil for a few hours before baking. This will infuse the meat with deeper flavor.
- Use Broth Instead of Water: Swap water for chicken or turkey broth to give the wings a richer flavor.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Fresh rosemary, thyme, or sage can be added to the casserole for added aroma.
- Make the Sauce Creamier: Stir in a tablespoon of sour cream or heavy cream to the mushroom soup mixture to create an even richer, creamier sauce.
- Try New Seasonings: Experiment with paprika, cayenne pepper, or Italian seasoning to put your own spin on the recipe.
- Add Vegetables: For a complete one-pan meal, add carrots, potatoes, or Brussels sprouts to the casserole dish before baking. They’ll cook alongside the wings and absorb all the delicious flavors.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 255
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 8g (Saturated Fat: 2g)
- Carbohydrates: 8g (Dietary Fiber: 1g, Sugars: 2g)
- Cholesterol: 95mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Potassium: 410mg
- Calcium: 25mg
- Iron: 1.5mg
This recipe provides a good balance of protein and moderate fat, making it a satisfying, well-rounded meal. For those mindful of sodium, consider using low-sodium broth or cream of mushroom soup.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use a different part of the turkey for this recipe?
Yes, you can use turkey drumsticks or thighs instead of wings. Adjust the cooking time depending on the size of the pieces.
2. What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
You can substitute with cream of chicken, cream of celery, or a dairy-free version of cream of mushroom soup.
3. How do I keep the turkey wings from drying out?
Cover the casserole dish with foil during the first hour of baking to lock in moisture. If the wings seem dry during the second half, add a bit of water or broth to the dish.
4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it a day in advance. Store the wings in the refrigerator and reheat them in the oven with a bit of added broth to keep them moist.
5. What sides pair well with baked turkey wings?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, garlic green beans, or a fresh garden salad are excellent side dish options.
6. How do I know when the turkey wings are fully cooked?
The turkey wings should reach an internal temperature of 165°F, and the meat should easily pull away from the bone.
7. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can. Cook the wings on low for 4-5 hours, then add the mushroom soup mixture an hour before serving.
How to Serve, How to Store, and Side Dish Ideas
How to Serve
Once your turkey wings are ready, serve them on a platter, spooning some of the creamy sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a beautiful finish.
How to Store
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the wings for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 300°F for 15-20 minutes.
Side Dish Ideas
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes
- Garlic Green Beans
- Roasted Vegetables
- Rice Pilaf
- Crispy Roasted Potatoes
- Fresh Garden Salad
Conclusion
With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create an unforgettable meal of juicy, flavorful baked turkey wings. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below, and feel free to pass along the recipe to friends and family who will love it! Happy cooking!