Air Fryer Turkey Burnt Ends: Smoky, Sweet, & Crispy Perfection in Under an Hour!
If you’re a true barbecue enthusiast, these incredible Air Fryer Turkey Burnt Ends are about to become your new obsession, especially as a standout dish for Thanksgiving or any gathering! They’re not just a fantastic snack or appetizer; they also elevate sandwiches and salads to a whole new level. The best part? You don’t need a bulky smoker or grill to achieve that coveted smoky, crispy goodness – your air fryer handles it perfectly, delivering tender, flavorful results with minimal effort.
What Exactly Are Turkey Burnt Ends?
Turkey burnt ends offer a brilliant, flavorful twist on the traditional BBQ burnt ends, which are typically crafted from beef brisket. Instead of beef, this recipe utilizes succulent smoked turkey breast or thigh meat, cut into bite-sized cubes. These turkey pieces are then generously seasoned with a savory rub, coated in a rich BBQ sauce, and cooked until their exterior becomes wonderfully crispy, sticky, and caramelized, while the interior remains incredibly juicy and tender. It’s all the smoky, sweet, and savory flavor you love, but with the lean goodness of turkey!
Why These Air Fryer Turkey Burnt Ends Are a Must-Try
Beyond being a unique and delicious meal, there are several compelling reasons why these turkey burnt ends deserve a spot in your recipe rotation:
- A Lighter, Yet Indulgent Alternative: For those seeking a leaner option than traditional beef burnt ends but unwilling to compromise on flavor, these turkey burnt ends are the perfect solution. They deliver all the rich, smoky taste and satisfying texture without the heavier fat content.
- Incredible Texture Contrast: Each bite offers a delightful interplay of textures. The caramelized, slightly charred edges provide a sweet, smoky, and satisfyingly crisp exterior, beautifully contrasting with the tender, moist, and juicy turkey meat inside. This dual texture is a hallmark of truly great burnt ends.
- Perfect for Leftovers and Budget-Friendly: This recipe is an ingenious way to transform leftover turkey from Thanksgiving or other holidays into something new and exciting. It’s also a more budget-friendly alternative to expensive brisket, allowing you to enjoy burnt ends year-round without breaking the bank.
- Incredibly Versatile Serving Options: These turkey burnt ends are remarkably adaptable. Serve them as a crowd-pleasing appetizer at your next party, stuff them into mini sliders, pile them over creamy mac and cheese, or arrange them on a grand BBQ platter. They’re ideal for cookouts, tailgating events, family dinners, and, of course, a show-stopping addition to your Thanksgiving feast!
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Gather Your Ingredients: What You’ll Need
Making these delicious turkey burnt ends requires just a few key components. Here’s a simple list to get you started:
- 1 ½ pounds fresh turkey tenderloin
- 2 Tbsp BBQ dry rub of choice (if your rub doesn’t contain salt, add ½ tsp or adjust to your taste preference)
- ½ cup black cherry chipotle BBQ sauce (check our notes below for exciting alternative options!)
Ingredient Tips and Smart Substitutions
Don’t be afraid to customize this recipe to your liking! Here are some helpful tips:
- For the turkey, tenderloin is an excellent choice due to its lean nature and ease of cubing, resembling the point end of a brisket. However, feel free to use other cuts of white or dark turkey meat, such as breast or thigh. This recipe is also a fantastic way to utilize leftover cooked turkey – simply skip the initial cooking step and jump straight to cubing and saucing!
- When it comes to the BBQ rub, use your favorite blend! You can stick with a sweet or savory profile that matches your sauce, or create a contrast. Turkey pairs beautifully with a wide array of spices and flavors, including brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, thyme, oregano, rosemary, parsley, sage, and fruity notes like cherry, cranberry, lemon, or orange. To infuse extra smoke flavor, especially since we’re using an air fryer instead of a traditional smoker, I highly recommend a woodfired garlic rub.
- The same flexibility applies to the BBQ sauce. While black cherry chipotle offers a perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and a pleasant spicy kick that complements turkey wonderfully, don’t hesitate to experiment! Consider cranberry barbecue sauce for a festive touch, or try maple bourbon, raspberry, blackberry, or apple-based sauces for different flavor combinations. You can also customize a store-bought sauce by adding a splash of apple cider vinegar for tang, a spoonful of brown sugar for extra sweetness, or even some jellied cranberry sauce for a unique holiday twist.
Easy Step-by-Step Instructions for Air Frying Turkey Burnt Ends
Follow these simple steps to create perfectly tender and caramelized turkey burnt ends in your air fryer:
- Season Your Turkey: Begin by liberally seasoning your turkey tenderloins on all sides with your chosen BBQ dry rub. Ensure an even coating for maximum flavor.
- Initial Air Fryer Cook: Carefully place the seasoned turkey tenderloins in a single layer into your air fryer’s basket or on its rack. Avoid overcrowding to allow for even cooking and browning.
- First Cook Cycle: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) on the air fry setting and cook for 10-12 minutes. Be sure to flip the tenderloins halfway through cooking. At this stage, the internal temperature should reach approximately 100°F-110°F (38°C-43°C) – remember, it will not be fully cooked yet. This initial cook helps to render some fat and set the seasoning.
- Rest, Dice, and Sauce: Remove the turkey from the air fryer and let it rest for 15 minutes. This is a crucial step to keep the turkey juicy. After resting, dice the tenderloins into roughly 1-inch cubes. Aim for similarly sized cubes to ensure even caramelization in the next step. In a mixing bowl, toss the turkey cubes with your chosen BBQ sauce until every piece is thoroughly coated.
- Final Air Fryer Caramelization: Return the sauced turkey cubes to the air fryer basket, again in a single layer if possible. Cook for an additional 7-10 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Continue cooking until the internal temperature of the turkey reaches a safe 165°F (74°C) in the center of a cube, and the BBQ sauce has caramelized to your preferred level of stickiness and crispness. If you desire darker, more charred edges after the turkey is safely cooked, you can extend the cooking time slightly, but be mindful that this might slightly dry out the turkey. A little extra sauce added after cooking can help if they get too dry!
- Serve and Enjoy: Once done, remove the delicious turkey burnt ends from the air fryer. Serve them immediately with your favorite BBQ side dishes or piled high on buns for incredible sandwiches. Get ready to enjoy this smoky, sweet, and crispy treat!
Special Note for Using Leftover Cooked Turkey
If you’re using leftover, pre-cooked turkey for this recipe, the process becomes even faster! There’s no need for the initial air frying step. Simply cut your cooked turkey into large (approximately 1-inch) cubes. Then, toss these cubes generously with both your chosen BBQ seasoning rub and the BBQ sauce. Place them directly into the air fryer and cook until the sauce is beautifully caramelized and the turkey is heated through – this usually takes about 7-10 minutes at 400°F (200°C), depending on your air fryer and the starting temperature of the turkey.
Explore More Burnt Ends Recipes
If you love the concept of burnt ends, you’ll be thrilled to know that many proteins can be transformed into these delightful bites. Check out some other burnt end recipes perfect for your air fryer or smoker:
Air Fryer Burnt Ends: Tender Brisket Perfection in Minutes!
Hot Dog Burnt Ends: Fun Air Fryer Twist on Classic BBQ!
- Chicken Burnt Ends
- Salmon Burnt Ends
- Pork Belly Burnt Ends
Perfect Pairings for Your Turkey Burnt Ends
These smoky, sweet, and savory turkey burnt ends are versatile and pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes and drinks. Here are some of our top recommendations to complete your meal:
Sensational Side Dish Pairings
- Creamy Mac & Cheese: The rich, gooey, and cheesy pasta provides a perfect counterpoint to the smoky, saucy intensity of the burnt ends. It’s a classic BBQ combo for a reason!
- Fluffy Cornbread: Slightly sweet and wonderfully crumbly, cornbread is ideal for soaking up every last drop of that delicious BBQ sauce. Try our easy Pillsbury Cornbread Swirls in the Air Fryer for a quick and satisfying option!
- Hearty BBQ Baked Beans: A smoky, sweet, and savory side that perfectly echoes the BBQ flavors of the turkey. For convenience, whip up some Air Fryer Baked Beans.
- Crisp Coleslaw: The crunchy texture and tangy dressing of coleslaw provide a refreshing contrast, cutting through the richness of the BBQ sauce and offering a delightful palate cleanser.
- Sweet Grilled Corn on the Cob: Fresh corn, grilled to perfection, adds a natural sweetness and a hint of char-grilled flavor that complements the turkey beautifully.
- Zesty Potato Salad: A mustard- or vinegar-based potato salad offers a zippy, tangy balance to the rich burnt ends. Our creamy roasted Air Fryer Potato Salad is an excellent choice for a unique twist.
- Classic Stuffing: Don’t limit stuffing to just Thanksgiving! A side of classic Stove Top stuffing or even creative stuffing waffles (press leftover stuffing in your waffle iron, then serve the turkey burnt ends on top!) makes a surprisingly delicious pairing.
Refreshing Drink Pairings
- Classic Sweet Tea: A quintessential Southern beverage, its sweetness and refreshing nature pair perfectly with the bold spices and tangy-sweet BBQ sauce.
- Smoky Bourbon or Whiskey Cocktail: For adult palates, a smoky bourbon or whiskey cocktail enhances the deep, complex flavors of the turkey burnt ends. Our Bourbon Blackberry Lemonade beautifully complements the fruity notes in many BBQ sauces.
- Citrus IPA or Amber Ale: The hoppy bitterness and bright citrus notes of an IPA or the malty richness of an Amber Ale can stand up to and complement a hearty BBQ glaze.
- Crisp Lemonade or Arnold Palmer: Tart, incredibly refreshing, and ideal for balancing out rich BBQ flavors, especially during outdoor gatherings. For a spirited version, try our Sweet Tea Vodka Lemonade!
Creative Serving Ideas
- Slider Buns or Hawaiian Rolls: Create delectable mini sandwiches. Fill them with turkey burnt ends, a dollop of coleslaw, and a few pickle slices for a perfect bite.
- Loaded Fries or Tater Tots: Transform your favorite fried potatoes! Top with a generous serving of turkey burnt ends, a drizzle of cheese sauce, and a sprinkle of fresh green onions.
- Hearty BBQ Bowls: Serve the turkey burnt ends over a bed of fluffy rice, creamy grits, or smooth mashed potatoes. Add your favorite fixings like pickled onions, jalapeños, or extra BBQ sauce.
Air Fryer Turkey Burnt Ends Recipe FAQs
What Cut Of Meat Is Best For Burnt Ends?
Traditionally, burnt ends are made from the point end of a beef brisket. This specific cut is prized for its abundant marbling and connective tissue, which, when smoked low and slow, renders down to an incredibly tender, rich, and flavorful texture. However, the versatility of burnt ends means you can achieve delicious results with various alternatives, including leaner meats like chicken, turkey, and even fish, as well as pork belly or hot dogs for different flavor profiles and textures.
Why Do They Call Them Burnt Ends?
The unique name “burnt ends” originates from the crispy, deeply caramelized edges and exterior pieces of a slow-smoked brisket point. Historically, these flavorful, darker bits were often considered mere trimmings or leftovers and were sometimes given away for free. Over time, however, their intense flavor, unique texture, and irresistible “bark-like” quality gained immense popularity, transforming them into a highly sought-after BBQ delicacy.
Are Burnt Ends Actually Burnt?
Not quite in the literal sense of being “burnt” or charred to an inedible crisp. Instead, they are deeply caramelized and intentionally charred through extended cooking and repeated glazing with BBQ sauce. The goal is to develop a rich, dark, and crispy exterior, often referred to as “bark,” while ensuring the inside remains incredibly tender, moist, and juicy. This striking contrast is a key part of their signature appeal and why they are so beloved.
Why Are Burnt Ends So Popular?
Burnt ends have captured the hearts of BBQ lovers due to their intensely smoky, rich, and savory flavor, combined with their irresistible crispy, caramelized edges. Whether made from traditional brisket or a lighter alternative like turkey, they offer a perfect harmony of richness, sweetness from the sauce, and a hint of spice. This complex flavor profile and delightful textural contrast make them a perennial BBQ favorite, excellent for enjoying as standalone bites, piled high on sliders, or as a flavorful topping for nachos and other dishes.
Pro Tips for the Best Air Fryer Turkey Burnt Ends
Achieving perfectly crispy, juicy, and flavorful turkey burnt ends in your air fryer is simple with a few key tips:
- Avoid Pans or Foil in the Air Fryer Basket: To ensure optimal caramelization and crispiness, do not cook the burnt ends in a solid pan or line your air fryer basket with foil. While it might seem like a good idea for easy cleanup, turkey tends to release a lot of juice during cooking. Cooking directly on the air fryer’s grate (even if it means a little more cleanup later) allows this moisture to drip away, preventing the sauce from becoming watery and ensuring those delicious caramelized edges form.
- Easily Scale the Recipe: This recipe is incredibly forgiving and can be scaled up or down with ease to accommodate more or less turkey. This is particularly useful when you’re working with larger quantities of leftover turkey from holidays! Just ensure you adjust the cooking time slightly and avoid overcrowding the air fryer.
- Air Fryer Models May Vary: This recipe was developed using a Ninja Dual Zone air fryer. Please keep in mind that cooking times and temperatures can vary slightly between different air fryer brands and models, as well as based on the specific size and thickness of your turkey pieces. Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness and adjust cooking times as needed for your specific setup to achieve the best results.
Storage and Reheating Your Turkey Burnt Ends
Enjoying your turkey burnt ends beyond the initial meal is easy with proper storage and reheating techniques:
Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: Once your turkey burnt ends have cooled completely, transfer them to an airtight container. They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooled burnt ends in a sealed freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. For best results and to help prevent freezer burn, it’s a good idea to wrap them in a layer of foil before placing them in the freezer bag.
Reheating Tips for Optimal Flavor and Texture
While freshly made burnt ends are always best, you can reheat them to a delicious state with these methods:
- Air Fryer (Recommended for best texture): Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the burnt ends in a single layer in the basket and cook for about 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. This method helps to crisp up the edges again, though note that reheated turkey burnt ends will generally be a bit drier than when freshly made.
- Oven: Place the burnt ends in a baking dish and cover loosely with foil to retain moisture. Reheat in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10–15 minutes, or until thoroughly warmed through. Adding a tablespoon or two of extra BBQ sauce to the dish before reheating can help combat dryness and revive the flavors.
- Microwave (Least Ideal for Texture): While convenient, microwaving is generally not recommended as it tends to make the burnt ends soft and soggy, losing their signature crispy texture. If you must use a microwave, cover them with a damp paper towel and heat in short 30-second bursts to prevent overcooking and rubberiness.
Discover More Delicious Turkey Recipes
If you’re looking for more creative and easy ways to enjoy turkey beyond these burnt ends, we have plenty of inspiration for you!
Air Fryer Marinated Turkey Tenderloin (Aldi)
Air Fryer Turkey Breast Cutlets: Easy Boneless Chops!
- Bacon Wrapped Turkey Tenderloin
- Air Fryer Turkey Legs
Final Thoughts on Air Fryer Turkey Burnt Ends
In conclusion, cooking these turkey burnt ends in the air fryer is an absolutely brilliant way to create bite-sized, caramelized pieces of poultry packed with an irresistible BBQ flavor. They offer a leaner and more budget-friendly alternative to traditional brisket burnt ends, and the best part is that no specialized grill or smoker is required for this fantastic version. The air fryer works its magic, ensuring tender meat with perfectly sticky, crispy edges.
While turkey, especially white meat, can sometimes be a little tricky to cook without drying it out, the air fryer performs exceptionally well. Even if it’s slightly overcooked, these burnt ends remain surprisingly delicious, and you can always add a little extra BBQ sauce to bring back moisture and flavor. These tasty BBQ bites are a guaranteed family favorite and make a perfect appetizer, snack, or a creative and efficient way to use up leftover turkey after Thanksgiving or any other occasion.
For more diverse and delicious ways to prepare your poultry, be sure to explore all of our tasty Air Fryer Turkey Recipes for different cuts, flavors, and culinary inspiration!
Air Fryer Turkey Burnt Ends
Equipment
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Air Fryer
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Measuring cups and spoons
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Sharp knife
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Mixing bowl (or similar)
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds fresh turkey tenderloin
- 2 Tbsp BBQ rub of choice (if it doesn’t contain salt, add ½ tsp or to taste)
- ½ cup black cherry chipotle BBQ sauce (or similar, see notes for alternatives)
Instructions
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Season your turkey tenderloins with the BBQ rub on both sides, ensuring an even coat for maximum flavor.1 ½ pounds fresh turkey tenderloin, 2 Tbsp BBQ rub of choice
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Place the seasoned tenderloins into your air fryer’s basket or rack in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding for even cooking.
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Cook on the air fry setting at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches around 100°F-110°F (38-43°C) (it is not fully cooked at this point, but this initial cook develops flavor).
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Rest the turkey for 15 minutes, then dice it into 1-inch cubes. Try to keep them similarly sized for best results and even caramelization. Stir the cubes with the BBQ sauce until well coated, ensuring every piece is covered.½ cup black cherry chipotle BBQ sauce
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Return the sauced ends to your air fryer, and cook an additional 7-10 minutes at 400°F (200°C), until the internal temp of the turkey reaches a safe 165°F (74°C) in the center of a cube and the sauce is caramelized to your liking. If you want the edges darker after the target temperature is reached, you can cook it longer, but at the risk of drying out your turkey a bit – you can always add more sauce after to help if it gets a little dry!
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Serve with your favorite BBQ sides or buns for sandwiches. Enjoy these irresistible Air Fryer Turkey Burnt Ends!
Notes
- If using leftover pre-cooked turkey instead, simply cut it into large (1” or so) cubes, toss it in both BBQ seasoning and sauce, and air fry until the sauce caramelizes and the turkey is heated through, usually about 7-10 minutes.
- Cooking times can vary between different air fryers and also depend on the size and thickness of your turkey pieces. Adjust cooking duration in small increments as needed for your specific appliance and desired level of caramelization.
- Feel free to swap in different BBQ rubs and sauces for this recipe. Other excellent flavor pairings for turkey include cranberry, maple bourbon, raspberry, blackberry, or apple-based sauces.
- Exact nutritional values will vary based on brand and flavor of ingredients used, any sauces or sides added, the size of pieces, and quantity consumed. Please consider this a guideline only.
Nutrition
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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