Shredded turkey is a fantastic lean protein that you can use in all sorts of dishes. Think soups, sandwiches, casseroles, salads—the possibilities are truly endless.
This article will walk you through the best ways to cook a turkey, shred it, and then put that shredded turkey to good use with some easy and delicious recipes. We’ll cover everything from slow cooker methods to stovetop techniques, ensuring you have plenty of options to choose from.
Selecting Your Turkey
There are a few different kinds of turkey you can use in these recipes. You could use a whole turkey, a bone-in turkey breast, or even a boneless turkey breast.
If you see turkey on sale, consider buying extra. That way, you can shred it and freeze it for later.
I often use a 20-pound turkey, which gives me plenty of leftover meat to work with. But you can even use a smaller, 48-ounce turkey breast for some of these recipes.
Cooking methods for shredded turkey
There are a few ways you can make shredded turkey, depending on what equipment you have and how much time you want to spend on the project.
Slow cooker method
For a super easy way to get tender, shreddable turkey, you can’t beat the slow cooker. One food blogger said she almost felt silly posting such a simple recipe!
Using a frozen turkey breast makes this even easier. Just toss it in the slow cooker with 2 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, and 1 tsp black pepper.
Cook on low for about 8 hours, or until the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees (more on that below). If there’s a lot of liquid in the pot when it’s done, drain some of it off before you shred the meat.
Stovetop method
You can also cook a turkey breast on the stovetop by simmering it in broth. Season the broth with something flavorful, like onion soup mix, black pepper, and a dash of hot sauce.
General cooking tips
No matter how you cook your turkey, it’s crucial to cook it to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. This is the temperature at which any harmful bacteria will be killed, so you can be sure your turkey is safe to eat.
The best way to ensure your turkey is thoroughly cooked is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the breast, making sure it doesn’t touch any bone.
Shredding the turkey
Once your turkey has cooled enough to handle, it’s time to shred it. You can shred the meat using a variety of methods. Some people like to use meat claws to pull the meat apart. Others prefer to use a stand mixer to make the process easier.
To shred by hand, use two forks to pull the meat apart into shreds.
To shred in a stand mixer, place the turkey pieces in the bowl and use the paddle attachment on low speed until the turkey is shredded. Be careful not to over-shred it!
Broth and seasoning ideas
When you’re making shredded turkey, the broth you use matters. Chicken or turkey broth will both give you great results. Many recipes call for about 4 cups of broth.
As for seasonings, don’t be afraid to experiment! Onion soup mix, garlic, and your favorite spices can all add a lot of flavor. For a more traditional taste, try herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage.
Storing Cooked Turkey
Got leftovers? Here’s how to keep them:
- Refrigeration: Put the turkey in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to five days.
- Freezing: You can freeze cooked turkey for about three months.
Keeping your turkey stored properly is important for avoiding spoilage!
What to make with shredded turkey
Okay, you’ve got a pile of shredded turkey. Now what? Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Sandwiches: Remember that slow cooker shredded turkey sandwich recipe with the horseradish sauce? Pile it high on your favorite bread. You can add lettuce, tomato, or whatever toppings you like. Serve it with potato chips, coleslaw, or a simple salad.
- Soups: Turkey noodle soup is a classic way to use leftover turkey. You could also try turkey taco soup for a spicier option.
- Casseroles: For a comforting meal, try turkey shepherd’s pie or turkey noodle casserole. These are great for using up leftover vegetables, too.
- Other dishes: Don’t forget turkey chili, pot pie, and turkey salad. All are excellent ways to transform your shredded turkey into a completely new meal.
Closing Thoughts
Shredded turkey is a supremely versatile ingredient. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a comforting dinner, or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, it can be easily incorporated into countless dishes.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different recipes and cooking methods to discover your go-to shredded turkey meals. Try adding it to tacos, salads, sandwiches, soups, or casseroles. The possibilities are endless!
Using leftover turkey creatively is a great way to reduce food waste, save money, and enjoy delicious, home-cooked meals throughout the week.