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–+ servings
a white serving dish of cooked turkey legs
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5 from 5 votes

Roasted Turkey Legs

Tender and juicy dark-meat turkey legs! Generously seasoned and oven-roasted, these turkey legs are great for a gathering and are easy to clean up.
Prep Time40 minutes
Cook Time1 hour 20 minutes
Marinade Time4 hours
Total Time6 hours
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Servings: 6 Turkey Legs
Calories: 1095kcal
Author: Jocelyn Delk Adams

Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup Paprika
  • 2 tablespoons Chili powder
  • 2 tablespoons Ground cumin
  • 2 tablespoons Granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons Kosher salt
  • 2 tablespoons Ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons Garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon Onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon Ground mustard
  • 1 tablespoon Dried oregano
  • 1 tablespoon Cayenne pepper
  • 3 snack size Celery sticks
  • 6 Onion slices
  • 6 Turkey Legs
  • 1 cup Turkey stock or chicken stock
  • 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter melted

Instructions

  • 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 turkey 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 the turkey leg with a paper towel to make sure they are very dry.
  • Place the turkey 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.
  • When ready to roast, preheat the oven to 350 degrees.  Remove turkey legs from the fridge and bring to room temperature.  Pour the stock in the pan and put any remaining celery and onion in the pan as well. Cover with foil and let it cook for 1 hour and 20 minutes, basting every 20 minutes with a baster or deep spoon that can scoop up the liquid.
  • 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.
  • Place the foil back on once you remove the legs from the oven and rest for 15 minutes covered then serve. 

Notes

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.

Nutrition

Serving: 1g | Calories: 1095kcal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 136g | Fat: 52g | Saturated Fat: 17g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 13g | Monounsaturated Fat: 16g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 492mg | Sodium: 2938mg | Potassium: 2189mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 3545IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 190mg | Iron: 15mg