How to Make Juicy, Flavorful Turkey Legs in the Oven

When you’re craving dark turkey meat but don’t want the hassle of roasting a whole bird, baked turkey legs are the perfect solution. Also known as drumsticks, turkey legs offer a delicious taste of Thanksgiving any time of year.

The leg is an often underrated but extremely flavorful part of the turkey, with a higher fat content that keeps the meat nice and moist. By following a simple seasoning and roasting method, you can make succulent oven-baked turkey legs right at home.

Step-By-Step Guide for Bake Turkey Legs

Follow these easy steps for juicy, golden brown turkey legs every time:

Ingredients

• 4 turkey drumsticks (about 1 lb each)
• 1⁄4 cup olive oil or melted butter
• 1-2 tsp salt
• 1-2 tsp garlic powder
• 1-2 tsp paprika
• Fresh herbs like rosemary or sage (optional)

Season and Prepare

• Pat the turkey legs very dry with paper towels. Apply olive oil or melted butter all over.

• Generously season both sides with salt, garlic powder and paprika. Coat evenly.

• For extra flavor, rub with fresh chopped rosemary or sage.

• Arrange legs in a baking dish lined with foil.

Bake Uncovered

• Preheat oven to 400°F.

• Bake legs uncovered for 15 minutes to brown the skin,

• Flip legs and bake 15 more minutes to brown the other side

Finish Cooking Covered

• Loosely tent foil over dish, trying not to touch skin.

• Bake 30-45 more minutes until 165°F internal temperature.

• Check often and add broth or water if drying out.

• Juices will run clear when turkey legs are fully cooked.

Rest and Serve

• Allow legs to rest 10 minutes before serving.

• Pair with favorite Thanksgiving sides and dig in!

Turkey Leg Cooking Times

• Small 1 lb legs: 60-75 minutes total
• Large 1.5 lb legs: 75-90 minutes total
• Check temperature to confirm doneness

Tips for Moist, Flavorful Drumsticks

• Brine legs 1-2 hours beforehand for extra juiciness

• Start at 400°F, then lower heat to prevent overbrowning

• Baste with broth or butter while baking

• Tent loosely with foil to prevent drying

• Wrap bone ends in foil to prevent overcooking

Oven Roasting Guarantees Best Results

While you can certainly grill, air fry or slow cook turkey legs, oven roasting really is the best cooking method to achieve:

• Crispy, browned skin
• Juicy, tender meat
• Intense turkey flavor

The initial high heat helps render the fat and crisp the skin. Then a lower, covered temperature lets the meat cook through without drying out.

Infuse Flavor With Spices and Herbs

Turkey legs benefit from a flavor boost before roasting. A simple blend of salt, garlic and paprika provides a savory base. Consider adding:

• Onion powder
• Sage
• Rosemary
• Thyme
• Brown sugar

For extra aroma and taste, try rubbing chopped fresh rosemary, sage or other herbs into the skin. The options are endless for amazing seasonings!

Make a Whole Meal Out of Turkey Legs

Baked turkey legs pair deliciously with so many classic side dishes. Turn them into a full holiday-style meal by serving with:

• Stuffing or dressing
• Mashed potatoes and gravy
• Cranberry sauce
• Roasted vegetables
• Dinner rolls

Or keep it simple with just rice or pasta and roasted broccoli. Either way, turkey legs make an easy, satisfying main course.

Transform Leftovers Into New Dishes

Like any cooked poultry, leftover turkey meat can be reused in all kinds of tasty ways:

• Turkey sandwiches
• Turkey salad
• Turkey noodle soup
• Turkey tacos
• Turkey pot pie
• Turkey casserole

Pick the cooked meat off the bones and get creative with leftovers!

Store Properly for Safety

Be sure to refrigerate cooked turkey legs within 2 hours of roasting. Store leftovers for 3-4 days in the fridge or 2-3 months in the freezer. Reheat fully when ready to eat again.

Satisfy Your Craving Anytime

With just a few pantry spices and your reliable oven, you can enjoy deliciously moist, flavorful turkey drumsticks anytime the craving strikes. Follow this simple roasting method for finger-licking oven-baked turkey legs year-round.

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