When it comes to poultry, turkey legs are often overlooked in favor of breasts or thighs. But these drumsticks deserve some serious culinary love! Not only do they offer a more rustic and satisfying eating experience than their boneless counterparts, but they’re also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re looking for a comforting, slow-cooked meal or a quick and easy weeknight dinner, turkey legs can be cooked in a multitude of ways to suit any occasion.
From classic roasted legs to spicy Cajun-inspired dishes and sweet and sticky glazes, the possibilities are endless when it comes to savory turkey leg recipes. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering options that will elevate your turkey game and leave you wondering why you ever settled for boring old breast meat in the first place.
Herb-Roasted Turkey Legs with Garlic Butter
Elevate your turkey game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe, perfect for a special occasion or everyday meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 turkey legs (about 1 pound each)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the turkey legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly onto both turkey legs, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Slow-Cooked BBQ Turkey Legs
Slow-Cooked BBQ Turkey Legs Recipe
Get ready to savor tender, juicy turkey legs smothered in a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce. This slow-cooked recipe is perfect for a relaxed meal or gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 turkey legs
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place turkey legs in the slow cooker and pour the BBQ sauce mixture over them.
4. Cook for 8-10 hours or until turkey is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Smoked Turkey Legs with Maple Glaze
Smokey flavors meet sweet and sticky in this delicious twist on traditional turkey legs. Perfect for game day gatherings or casual backyard BBQs, these smoked turkey legs are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 4 turkey legs
– 1 cup maple syrup
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place turkey legs in the smoker, leaving space between each leg for even cooking.
4. Smoke turkey legs for 4-5 hours, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
5. During the last 30 minutes of smoking, brush the maple glaze all over the turkey legs.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Spicy Cajun Turkey Legs
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this mouthwatering recipe for Spicy Cajun Turkey Legs. A perfect blend of spices and herbs gives these turkey legs a rich, succulent taste that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 4 turkey legs
– 1/2 cup Cajun seasoning
– 2 tbsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the turkey legs, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Place the turkey legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each leg.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the turkey legs and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the turkey legs rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Honey Mustard Glazed Turkey Legs
This sweet and tangy glaze elevates the classic turkey leg to a new level of flavor and tenderness, perfect for parties or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 4 turkey legs (thighs and drumsticks)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, mustard, olive oil, garlic, and thyme until smooth.
3. Place turkey legs on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the glaze evenly over both sides of the turkey legs.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Turkey Legs
Elevate your snack game with these mouthwatering garlic parmesan turkey legs, perfect for game day gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 bone-in turkey legs
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Place turkey legs in a shallow baking dish and brush the garlic-Parmesan mixture evenly over both legs.
4. Sprinkle with parsley, salt, and pepper.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Baked Turkey Legs with Rosemary and Thyme
Baked Turkey Legs with Rosemary and Thyme Recipe
Elevate your holiday feast with this savory and aromatic baked turkey leg recipe, infused with the classic flavors of rosemary and thyme.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 turkey legs (thighs and drumsticks)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the turkey legs under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, chopped rosemary, and dried thyme.
4. Place the turkey legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the herb mixture evenly onto the turkey legs, making sure to coat all surfaces.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Let the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Grilled Turkey Legs with Lemon Pepper Marinade
Grilled Turkey Legs with Lemon Pepper Marinade Recipe
Add a burst of citrus flavor to your grilled turkey legs with this easy and delicious recipe. Perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 turkey legs, skin removed
– 1/4 cup lemon pepper marinade (see below)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Lemon Pepper Marinade:
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon pepper marinade ingredients until smooth.
3. Place turkey legs in a shallow dish and brush with olive oil.
4. Pour marinade over turkey legs, making sure they are fully coated.
5. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
6. Grill turkey legs for 10-12 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-24 minutes
Braised Turkey Legs in Red Wine Sauce
Savor the rich flavors of slow-cooked turkey legs smothered in a velvety red wine sauce, perfect for a special occasion or cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 turkey legs (about 1.5 lbs each)
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season turkey legs with salt and pepper.
3. In a large Dutch oven, brown the turkey legs over medium-high heat for 5 minutes per side.
4. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add garlic, red wine, chicken broth, tomato paste, and thyme. Stir to combine.
6. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
7. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until turkey is tender and falls-apart easy.
8. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Turkey Legs with Cranberry Orange Glaze
Elevate your holiday gathering with this flavorful twist on traditional turkey legs. A tangy cranberry orange glaze adds a pop of color and flavor to these succulent poultry treats.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 turkey legs
– 1/2 cup cranberries, fresh or frozen
– 1/4 cup orange marmalade
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine cranberries, orange marmalade, honey, Dijon mustard, and orange zest. Blend until smooth.
3. Season turkey legs with salt and pepper.
4. Place turkey legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the cranberry glaze all over the turkey legs, making sure they’re fully coated.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Asian-Style Sticky Turkey Legs
A sweet and savory twist on traditional turkey legs, these sticky delights are perfect for a crowd-pleasing snack or main course. With a flavorful glaze made from soy sauce, brown sugar, and rice vinegar, these turkey legs will disappear in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 turkey legs
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, honey, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Place turkey legs in a large baking dish and brush with the sticky glaze.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, basting with additional glaze every 10 minutes.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions (if using) before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey Legs with Mushroom Gravy
Elevate your comfort food game with this hearty and flavorful recipe that combines tender turkey legs with a rich, savory mushroom gravy.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 turkey legs (bone-in)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Rinse turkey legs and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or roasting pan over medium-high heat. Brown turkey legs on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium. Add sliced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
5. Sprinkle flour over mushroom mixture and cook for 1 minute. Gradually stir in chicken broth and whisk until smooth.
6. Return turkey legs to the pot and baste with the mushroom gravy.
7. Cover pot or pan with a lid and transfer to the preheated oven. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until turkey is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Jerk-Spiced Turkey Legs with Pineapple Salsa
Elevate your turkey game with this Caribbean-inspired recipe, featuring jerk-spiced turkey legs paired with a sweet and tangy pineapple salsa. Perfect for a summer BBQ or potluck, these flavorful legs are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
For the turkey legs:
– 4 bone-in turkey legs
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp olive oil
For the pineapple salsa:
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, brown sugar, and olive oil.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the turkey legs.
4. Place turkey legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the turkey is cooking, combine pineapple chunks, red onion, jalapeño pepper, cilantro, and lime juice in a bowl.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Serve the jerk-spiced turkey legs with the pineapple salsa spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Turkey Legs with Apple Cider Glaze
Sweet and savory, these Turkey Legs with Apple Cider Glaze are perfect for a fall or winter gathering. The tangy apple cider glaze complements the rich flavor of the turkey, making it a crowd-pleasing dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 turkey legs
– 1 cup apple cider
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine apple cider, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic, and thyme. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes or until glaze thickens slightly.
4. Season turkey legs with salt and pepper.
5. Place turkey legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Brush the apple cider glaze all over the turkey legs.
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until cooked through, basting every 10 minutes.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Turkey Legs in Creamy Mushroom Sauce
Elevate your next dinner party or special occasion with this mouthwatering Turkey Legs with Creamy Mushroom Sauce recipe. Tender and juicy turkey legs smothered in a rich, creamy mushroom sauce make for an unforgettable main course.
Ingredients:
– 2 large turkey legs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season turkey legs with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear turkey legs for 5 minutes per side, then transfer to the oven. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In the same skillet, sauté chopped onion and sliced mushrooms until tender. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
6. Serve turkey legs with creamy mushroom sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Turkey Legs with Honey Sriracha Glaze
Impress your guests with these fall-off-the-bone tender turkey legs smothered in a sticky honey sriracha glaze. Perfect for game day gatherings or casual outdoor meals.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 turkey legs
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup sriracha sauce
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse turkey legs and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, sriracha sauce, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil.
4. Brush the glaze all over the turkey legs, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place turkey legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Turkey Legs with Herb Stuffing
Succulent turkey legs smothered in a fragrant herb stuffing, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 turkey legs (about 1 pound each)
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse turkey legs under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, parsley, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each turkey leg with the herb mixture, dividing it evenly among the four legs.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed turkey legs and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place turkey legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Turkey Legs in Spicy Tomato Sauce
A flavorful twist on traditional turkey legs, this recipe combines the savory taste of slow-cooked poultry with a spicy kick from crushed red pepper flakes. Perfect for game day gatherings or casual meals.
Ingredients:
– 4 turkey legs (thighs and drumsticks)
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine.
6. Place the turkey legs in the pot, making sure they’re covered with the tomato sauce.
7. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
8. Cook for 2-3 hours or until the turkey is cooked through and tender.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley (if desired). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Summary
Get ready to elevate your turkey leg game with these 18 savory recipe ideas! From classic herb-roasted legs to spicy Cajun and smoky maple-glazed options, there’s something for every occasion. Impress your family with slow-cooked BBQ or braised red wine sauce, or try something new like Asian-style sticky glaze or jerk-spiced pineapple salsa. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping holiday centerpiece, these turkey leg recipes are sure to please.
