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A large orange Dutch oven filled with tender, slow-cooked Southern collard greens mixed with shredded smoked turkey.

Homemade Southern Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey

These homemade Southern collard greens are slow-simmered with smoked turkey for deep, savory flavor. Tender, comforting, and perfectly seasoned, they’re a classic soul food side dish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 210
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs collard greens washed and chopped
  • 1 large smoked turkey leg or wings
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes optional
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp sugar optional

Equipment

  • Large Pot

Method
 

  1. Rinse collard greens thoroughly to remove grit, then chop and set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  3. Add onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent.
  4. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Add smoked turkey leg, chicken broth, and water to the pot.
  6. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
  7. Add collard greens gradually, stirring as they wilt.
  8. Season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, and sugar if using.
  9. Cover and simmer on low for 40–45 minutes until greens are tender.
  10. Remove turkey, shred meat, discard skin and bones, and return meat to the pot.
  11. Stir in apple cider vinegar, adjust seasoning, and serve hot.

Notes

Serve with cornbread for a traditional Southern meal. The greens taste even better the next day.