How to cook turkey gizzards
The Most Tender Turkey Gizzards You’ll Ever Taste – A Hidden Gem of Flavor and Comfort
If you’ve ever pushed turkey gizzards aside, thinking they were just “scraps,” I invite you to reconsider. Once we learned how to treat them with patience, love, and the right seasonings, turkey gizzards transformed in our kitchen from something we barely noticed into a cherished centerpiece. Their deep, earthy flavor, their satisfying chew when cooked slowly, and their rich heritage in countless global cuisines—all of this makes them worth celebrating.
The first time we served these gizzards at a family gathering, we weren’t sure what to expect. But after slow-cooking them to perfection, drizzling them in garlic butter and serving them with warm bread, they were gone in minutes. People asked for the recipe. Some even asked for seconds before they finished their first plate. That’s when we knew—this recipe is pure comfort food gold.
Let us walk you through a dish that’s surprisingly easy, incredibly nourishing, and endlessly customizable. We’ll show you every method—from stovetop to Instant Pot, air fryer to oven—so no matter how you like to cook, you’ll be able to bring these humble, hearty morsels to life.
Preparation Time
Cleaning and prepping gizzards: 10 minutes
Cooking time (varies by method): 45 minutes to 2 hours
Final sauté or crisping: 5–10 minutes
Total time: 1 hour to 2.5 hours
Serves: 4 generous portions
Difficulty: Medium
The Necessary Ingredients (Possible in All Kinds of Variations)
1½ to 2 pounds turkey gizzards, trimmed and cleaned
1 large onion, chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried thyme or oregano
2 bay leaves
4 cups chicken broth or water (for braising or boiling)
Optional: 1 tablespoon soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for umami
Optional: 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes for spice
Optional: 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice for tenderizing
Garnishes & serving suggestions:
Chopped parsley
Lemon wedges
Crusty bread or mashed potatoes
Vegan or Dietary Adaptations
While there isn’t a direct vegan version of gizzards, the same spice blend can be used with firm mushrooms (like oyster or portobello) or seitan, seared and slow-braised for a similar rich and savory dish. For a gluten-free version, be sure to use gluten-free broth and skip soy sauce or replace it with tamari or coconut aminos.
The Steps of Preparation (Possible in All Kinds of Variations)
Now comes the part where we transform this humble ingredient into something irresistible. I’ll include variations for stovetop, pressure cooker, air fryer, oven, and more below.
Rinse the turkey gizzards under cold water, trimming away any tough membranes or silver skin.
Place the gizzards in a bowl with vinegar or lemon juice and cover with water. Let sit for 10 minutes to begin tenderizing.
Drain and rinse again thoroughly.
In a large pot or Instant Pot, sauté chopped onion and garlic in olive oil or butter until fragrant.
Add the cleaned gizzards to the pot and stir for a few minutes to sear slightly.
Sprinkle with salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and bay leaves.
Pour in the broth or water to just cover the gizzards. Add soy sauce or Worcestershire, if using.
For stovetop: bring to a boil, then lower heat and simmer covered for 1.5 to 2 hours, until fork-tender.
For Instant Pot: set to “Meat/Stew” or “Pressure Cook” on high for 40 minutes; natural release.
For oven: cover tightly in a Dutch oven at 160°C (325°F) for 2 hours.
For air fryer or pan-frying: after braising, remove gizzards and pat dry. Toss with a bit of oil and crisp in air fryer at 200°C (400°F) for 8–10 minutes or pan-sear until golden.
Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon before serving.
Nutritional Benefits
High in Protein: One of the most protein-dense organ meats, perfect for muscle repair.
Rich in Iron: Supports healthy red blood cell production and combats fatigue.
B Vitamin Powerhouse: Especially B12, crucial for brain function and energy.
Collagen & Elastin: Supports joint, skin, and tissue health.
Low in Calories: High satiety without being calorie-heavy.
Zinc-Rich: Boosts immune function and helps with wound healing.
Supports Metabolism: Thanks to its selenium and niacin content.
Naturally Gluten-Free: Great for people with celiac or sensitivities.
Possible Additions or Upgrades
Once we mastered the base recipe, we started playing around. One week, we tossed them in a spicy Cajun butter. Another time, we glazed them with honey and balsamic for a sweet-savory combo. They’re also amazing in stews, tacos, or chopped into fried rice.
Looking to elevate the meal? Add a side of creamy polenta, garlicky greens, or roast them with carrots and potatoes. A drizzle of chimichurri adds brightness, while a dollop of aioli or spicy mustard brings bold contrast.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I clean turkey gizzards properly?
Rinse them under cold water, trim any membranes or connective tissue, and soak in vinegar or lemon water for 10 minutes.
Are turkey gizzards chewy?
They can be if undercooked. When slow-cooked or pressure-cooked, they become tender and satisfying.
Can I freeze turkey gizzards?
Yes, both raw and cooked gizzards freeze well. Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
What do turkey gizzards taste like?
They have a rich, meaty flavor with a texture similar to dark meat, slightly firmer but very satisfying.
Can I use chicken gizzards instead?
Absolutely. Chicken gizzards can be used with the same recipe and are typically smaller and quicker to cook.
How long should I cook turkey gizzards?
Simmer them for 1.5–2 hours on stovetop or 40 minutes in an Instant Pot for best tenderness.
Are turkey gizzards healthy?
Yes, they’re nutrient-dense, high in protein and essential vitamins like B12 and iron.
Can I use turkey gizzards in other dishes?
Yes! Add them to soups, tacos, stir-fries, pasta sauces, or even slice into sandwiches.
What sides go well with turkey gizzards?
Mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, polenta, or a fresh herb salad pair beautifully.
Can I make them spicy?
Definitely. Add chili flakes, hot sauce, or a smoky spice rub to turn up the heat.
From our hearts to your kitchen, we hope you give these delicious, underappreciated morsels a try. They’ve added richness to our meals and become a soulful reminder of how even the humblest ingredients, treated with care, can become extraordinary.
If this recipe spoke to you, please share it on your social feeds, send it to friends, and spread the gizzard love! Let’s make more kitchens fall in love with these flavorful treasures.
