Roasted Turkey Legs

Tender and juicy dark-meat turkey legs with crispy skin and a whole lot of flavor! Now, I’ve had my fair share of turkey dinners, from Thanksgiving spreads to Sunday afternoon family get-togethers. But these Roasted Turkey Legs? They’re a game changer. Infused with a blend of robust spices and lovingly rubbed down with butter, each turkey leg transports you to a place of comfort, warmth, and pure gastronomic joy. These roasted turkey legs are a trip down memory lane, back to Grandma’s kitchen, where every dish was prepared with love and a sprinkle of Southern charm.

Whether you’re making these juicy turkey legs for a small Thanksgiving gathering or if you’re hosting a dinner any time of the year, doubling or tripling, this turkey leg recipe for a group is recommended by us and your friends!

Why you’ll love this roasted turkey leg Recipe

• Flavorful & spicy. With a finger-licking blend of spices like paprika, chili, and cayenne pepper, these turkey legs offer a unique kick that spice lovers will love.
• Tender & juicy. Slow-roasted to perfection, these turkey legs are irresistibly tender and juicy, ensuring a melt-in-your-mouth experience with crispy skin.
• Memorable & comforting. Infused with warmth and a sprinkle of Southern charm, these turkey legs are not just a meal but a memorable experience, reminiscent of family gatherings and hearty laughter.
• Easy-to-follow. With clear, step-by-step instructions, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all levels, making cooking a sinch.
• Versatile & satisfying. Perfect as a main dish for festive occasions or a hearty weeknight dinner, these roasted turkey legs are versatile and satisfying, ensuring they’ll become a cherished addition to your cooking repertoire.
• One-pan wonder. This recipe requires just one roasting pan, making cleanup a breeze and leaving you more time to marvel at your leg work… see what I did there?!

Ingredients To Make Roasted Turkey Legs

Aside from the turkey legs, this recipe is made with delicious spices and ingredients you likely already have on hand.

• Turkey Legs: Buy turkey legs with the skin on at your local grocery store. They may come packed as whole turkey leg quarters instead of just the turkey drumsticks.
• Celery & Onion: Helps to add flavor to the turkey meat.
• Turkey Stock: Chicken stock is a perfect substitute if you cannot find turkey stock.
• Unsalted Butter: Use butter to add flavor and juiciness and to give the seasonings something to stick to.
• Seasoning mix: I use a tasty combination of paprika, chili powder, ground cumin, sugar, salt and pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, ground mustard, oregano, and cayenne pepper. Most of which you likely have on hand already!

How To Easily Bake Turkey Legs

1. Add all the seasonings in a small bowl. Whisk until combined. Cut celery sticks once the long way and then cut again down the middle so that you have 4 small sticks. Use a knife to cut 2-3 slits in each leg. Cut the slits so that small pieces of celery and onion can fit inside. Then alternate adding celery and onion in the slits.  Pat dry the turkey leg with a paper towel to make sure they are very dry.

2. Place the legs in a roasting pan. Melt butter in a small bowl. Rub each turkey leg with butter then liberally rub the spice mixture all over your turkey legs and really get under the skin as much as possible.  Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours letting that spice really get into the turkey.

3. When ready to roast, preheat the oven to 350 degrees.  Remove turkey legs from the fridge and bring them to room temperature.  Pour the stock into the pan and put any remaining celery and onion in the pan as well. Cover with foil and roast turkey legs for 1 hour and 20 minutes, basting every 20 minutes with a baster or deep spoon that can scoop up the liquid.

4. Remove legs and check that internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F. Remove the foil and put the oven on broil for just a few seconds to watch until it gets to the color you prefer then remove.

5. Place the foil back on once you remove the legs from the oven and rest for 15 minutes covered then serve. 

Tips for Making the best turkey legs in the oven

• You’ll have seasoning left over. Store mixed seasoning in an airtight container or an emptied seasoning container (like an empty garlic powder container, for example).
• Allowing your turkey to rest after baking will let the meat reabsorb those wonderful juices we want to stay in the meat. Cutting the meat or eating it too early will result in a tougher chew.
• If your turkey legs are browning too quickly, loosely cover the baking dish with foil will help prevent further browning.
• Pat the turkey legs dry before dressing them with butter and seasonings will help the spices stick to the skin and also allow the skin to crisp up in the oven.
• Depending on the size of the turkey legs you’re cooking will determine how long they need to cook. Smaller turkey legs will take less time than larger ones.

Substitutions and Additions

Substitutions:

1. Paprika: Smoked paprika can be used for an added smoky flavor.
2. Chili Powder: Ancho chili powder is a suitable substitute if you’re looking for a milder, sweeter profile.
3. Ground Cumin: Ground coriander can be used as a milder alternative.
4. Granulated Sugar: Honey or maple syrup can add a natural sweetness.
5. Kosher Salt: Sea salt or table salt can be used; adjust quantity to taste.
6. Ground Black Pepper: White pepper can be used for a milder, less intense flavor.
7. Garlic Powder: Fresh minced garlic can infuse a more robust flavor.
8. Onion Powder: Substitute with fresh minced onion for a sharper taste.
9. Turkey Stock or Chicken Stock: Vegetable stock is a great alternative, especially for vegetarians.
10. Unsalted Butter: Olive oil or melted ghee can be used for a different flavor profile.

Additions:

1. Fresh Herbs: Thyme, rosemary, or sage can add a fragrant and earthy flavor.
2. Citrus Zest: Lemon or orange zest can give a refreshing and tangy kick.
3. Vegetables: Add carrots, potatoes, or Brussels sprouts to the roasting pan for a complete meal.
4. Glaze: A balsamic glaze or honey mustard can be brushed on for added sweetness and depth of flavor.
5. Spice It Up: For those who enjoy a little extra heat, add more cayenne or a dash of hot sauce.

Storing and Reheating Roasted Turkey Legs

Storing:

1. Refrigerator: Once the turkey legs have cooled to room temperature, wrap them individually in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Place them in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
2. Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the turkey legs. Wrap each leg securely in aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Be sure to squeeze out any excess air to maintain freshness. Properly stored, they can be kept in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating:

1. Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Place the turkey legs in a baking dish, cover with aluminum foil to retain moisture, and heat for 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. If frozen, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
2. Microwave: For a quicker method, you can use the microwave. Place the turkey leg on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, checking for warmth between intervals.

How do I know my Turkey is done?

When the juices of your oven roasted turkey legs run clear then that is usually a good sign that your turkey legs are fully cooked.

To check a turkey leg for ideal doneness, the best practice is to use a meat thermometer. Stick the thermometer probe into the thickest part of the leg, avoiding the bone which will give an inaccurate reading. When the temperature has reached 165 degrees Fahrenheit then your turkey legs are safe to pull out of the oven and start resting.

How to serve roasted Turkey Legs

After resting serve up your oven-roasted turkey legs alongside any of these amazing dishes.

• Southern Fried Favorites: Fried Onion Rings, Fried Pickles, and Fried Okra.
• Tasty Side Dishes: Mashed Sweet Potatoes, Southern Green Beans Recipe, or Creamed Corn.
• Slow cooker & pasta sides: Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese, Summer Brown Butter Pasta for Two, and Butternut Squash Ravioli.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I cook these turkey legs in an air fryer?
  Absolutely! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (180°C), and cook the turkey legs for about 40-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Be sure to turn them halfway through for even cooking!
• Can I use this spice mix on other meats?
  You sure can! This versatile spice mix works wonderfully on chicken, pork, and even beef. Adjust the cooking time depending on the meat and its thickness.
• Can I make this recipe less spicy?
  Of course! Feel free to reduce the amount of cayenne pepper and chili powder to suit your taste buds. You can always adjust the spices to find your perfect balance.
• What can I use instead of turkey stock?
  Chicken or vegetable stock makes a great substitute for turkey stock. In a pinch, you can also use water with a pinch of salt.
• How can I tell when the turkey legs are done?
  The turkey legs are done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure they are cooked to perfection.
• Can I marinate the turkey legs overnight?
  Yes, marinating the turkey legs overnight will allow the flavors to penetrate more deeply, resulting in even more flavorful and delicious meat!
• Can I add more vegetables to the roasting pan?
  Absolutely! Adding vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers can turn this dish into a wholesome one-pan meal.

Well, there y’all have it, my dear friends – a Roasted Turkey Legs recipe that’s brimming with flavor, warmth, and a sprinkle of Southern charm. Whether it’s a festive gathering, a family dinner, or simply a day you feel like treating yourself, these turkey legs are bound to hit the spot and leave everyone around the table with full bellies and happy hearts.

More turkey recipes

• BBQ Meatballs (Made with Ground Turkey!)
• Ground Turkey Empanada Recipe (Ground Turkey Recipes)
• Brown Sugar Baked Turkey Bacon
• Fried Turkey Recipe (How To Fry Turkey)

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