Description
This Rich and Savory Turkey Drumstick Stew is a comforting, hearty meal packed with tender, slow-cooked turkey, root vegetables, and flavorful broth. Made in one pot, this easy stew is perfect for chilly days or when you need a wholesome, filling dish with minimal cleanup. Serve it with crusty bread or over rice for the ultimate cozy meal!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Turkey & Stew Base:
- 2 large turkey drumsticks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 potatoes, diced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 4 cups chicken or turkey broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional, for extra depth)
For Thickening & Finishing:
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Sear the Turkey: In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add turkey drumsticks and sear on all sides until golden brown (about 5 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened.
- Add Seasoning & Liquids: Stir in salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Add diced tomatoes, broth, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce. Stir well.
- Simmer the Stew: Return the turkey drumsticks to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 1 ½ to 2 hours, or until the turkey is tender and easily pulls apart.
- Add Potatoes & Finish Cooking: Stir in diced potatoes and let cook for another 20-30 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.
- Thicken the Stew (Optional): If you prefer a thicker stew, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water and stir it in. Let cook for another 5 minutes until thickened.
- Shred & Serve: Remove the turkey drumsticks, shred the meat, and discard the bones. Stir the shredded turkey back into the stew. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot!
Notes
- For extra depth, add a splash of red wine while sautéing the onions.
- Make it heartier by adding beans or lentils.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for later.
- Slow Cooker Option: Follow steps 1-3, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
- Side Pairings: Serve with crusty bread, over rice, or with mashed potatoes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Main Dish, One-Pot Meals
- Method: Stovetop, Slow Simmer
- Cuisine: American, Comfort Food