Pin This soul-warming slow cooker collard greens recipe features rich and smoky turkey, melting onions, and tender greens. With just a few fresh ingredients and plenty of hands-off cook time, you get classic Southern comfort any night of the week. It is a favorite for family dinners and makes an ideal holiday side dish thanks to its deep savory base and mild spice.
My first time making this on a Sunday, the aroma filled the whole house for hours and drew everyone to the kitchen. After that, it has become our tradition every New Year's Day.
Ingredients
- Smoked turkey wings or legs: Give the dish rich flavor and classic Southern smokiness. Seek out turkey that is lightly smoked rather than heavily seasoned, for a cleaner taste
- Collard greens: Provide vibrant color, hearty texture, and are nutrient-rich. Fresh large bunches are best (look for dark green leaves without yellowing)
- Onion: Brings essential sweetness as it slowly softens. Choose yellow onions for a mellow baseline flavor
- Garlic: Infuses each bite with depth. Use firm cloves without sprouting
- Low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps salt levels in check while letting the ingredients shine. Homemade or good-quality store-bought
- Apple cider vinegar: Brightens the greens and helps them stay tender
- Salt: Ensures every layer of flavor comes through. Use a fine sea salt for easy dissolving
- Black pepper: Supplies warmth without overwhelming
- Crushed red pepper flakes: Contribute a subtle background heat. Adjust up or down according to taste
- Brown sugar: Balances bitterness and adds just a hint of caramel notes
Instructions
- Prep the Collard Greens:
- Rinse the collard greens under cool water, carefully swishing to remove all grit. Remove the tough stems and chop the leaves into bite-size pieces so they will cook evenly and be easy to eat
- Layer Everything in the Slow Cooker:
- Place the smoked turkey pieces right on the bottom of your slow cooker. Pile the chopped onions, garlic, and collard greens over the turkey so the flavors mingle as they slow cook
- Add Broth and Flavorings:
- Pour in the chicken broth until the greens are mostly covered. Add the apple cider vinegar for brightness. Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and brown sugar to balance and boost the flavors
- Combine and Cook:
- Give everything a gentle stir to distribute the seasonings without packing the slow cooker too tightly. Cover and cook on low for six hours or until the turkey is deeply tender and the greens are silky
- Shred and Return the Turkey:
- Once cooked, remove the turkey pieces using tongs or a fork. Shred the tender meat away from the bone and discard the skin and bones. Stir the shredded meat back into the greens so every bite is rich and hearty
- Adjust and Serve:
- Taste and add a touch more salt or spice if needed. Serve piping hot, letting everyone scoop plenty of both greens and turkey
Pin My favorite part is how the smoked turkey transforms the broth into something you want to sip with a spoon. Serving this at family reunions reminds me of how my grandmother always said the greens were not done until the house smelled right
Storage Tips
Store any leftover collard greens and turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth. If you want to freeze, cool the greens completely and portion into freezer bags (they will keep their flavor and texture for up to three months)
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap smoked turkey for smoked ham hocks or go vegetarian by using smoked paprika and omitting the meat entirely. For the broth, vegetable stock works well if you want to keep it meat-free. Red chard or kale can be used if collards are out of season
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish over fluffy rice or creamy grits to catch all the flavorful juices. Cornbread is a classic pairing. For a party or potluck, portion into small bowls for everyone to enjoy with hot sauce on the side
Pin Enjoy these collard greens for any occasion and savor every smoky, hearty bite. Share with loved ones and keep the tradition going all year long.
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I use a different protein?
Yes, ham hocks or bacon can replace smoked turkey, though poultry yields a lighter flavor.
- → How do I make it vegetarian?
Omit the turkey and substitute smoked paprika for depth and smokiness.
- → What sides pair well?
Cornbread, white rice, or potato salad are classic choices for serving with collard greens.
- → Can I prepare in advance?
Cook ahead and reheat gently; flavors deepen after sitting overnight in the fridge.
- → Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, use broth verified gluten-free to keep it suitable for dietary restrictions.
- → How can I add extra heat?
Add hot sauce or more red pepper flakes during or after cooking for a spicier dish.