Are you looking for a delicious and easy way to cook turkey legs? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 juicy turkey leg recipes that are perfect for the oven. From classic flavors like garlic and herb to sweet and spicy options, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re planning a holiday meal or just want to add some variety to your weeknight dinners, these oven-roasted turkey legs are sure to impress. And the best part? They’re incredibly easy to make – just toss those turkey legs in the oven and let them do their magic.
In this article, we’ll be sharing our top 20 oven-roasted turkey leg recipes, from classic flavors like garlic herb and honey glaze to more adventurous options like smoky paprika and brown sugar. So grab a pen and paper (or your favorite recipe app) and get ready to start cooking!
Garlic Herb Roasted Turkey Legs
Elevate your turkey game with this simple and aromatic recipe, perfect for a weekend dinner or special occasion. The combination of garlic, herbs, and roasting brings out the best in these tender and juicy turkey legs.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 turkey legs (thighs and drums)
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the turkey legs in a roasting pan and brush the garlic-herb mixture evenly over both sides of the legs.
4. Roast for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Honey Glazed Turkey Legs with Thyme
Elevate your holiday gathering with this mouthwatering recipe that combines the natural sweetness of turkey legs with the savory flavor of thyme, all wrapped up in a sticky honey glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4 turkey legs
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, olive oil, thyme, and apple cider vinegar.
3. Season turkey legs with salt and pepper.
4. Place turkey legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the honey glaze evenly over each leg.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Smoky Paprika and Brown Sugar Turkey Legs
A sweet and smoky twist on traditional turkey legs, this recipe is perfect for a backyard BBQ or a cozy night in. The combination of brown sugar, paprika, and smoldering spices will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 turkey legs
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the turkey legs, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the turkey legs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the turkey is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Lemon Pepper Roasted Turkey Legs
Brighten up your holiday table with this flavorful and aromatic recipe for Lemon Pepper Roasted Turkey Legs. A perfect combination of citrusy lemon and savory pepper, these turkey legs are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 turkey legs (thawed)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp black pepper, freshly ground
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, black pepper, and olive oil.
3. Place turkey legs in a large roasting pan. Brush the lemon-pepper mixture evenly over each leg.
4. Sprinkle garlic and thyme over the turkey legs.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Turkey Legs with Rosemary
Elevate your turkey game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the sweetness of balsamic glaze with the earthiness of rosemary. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 4 turkey legs
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic glaze, olive oil, and chopped rosemary.
3. Season turkey legs with salt and pepper.
4. Brush the balsamic glaze mixture evenly over both turkey legs.
5. Place turkey legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spicy Cajun Roasted Turkey Legs
Get ready to spice up your turkey game with this bold and flavorful recipe! These Cajun-inspired roasted turkey legs are perfect for a holiday gathering or a casual dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 turkey legs
– 1/4 cup Cajun seasoning (such as Tony Chachere’s)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse turkey legs and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the spice mixture all over the turkey legs, making sure they’re evenly coated.
5. Place turkey legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each leg.
6. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Remove from oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Serving Suggestion: Serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, green beans, and a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired.
Maple Mustard Glazed Turkey Legs
Elevate your holiday gathering with this sweet and tangy glaze on tender turkey legs. This recipe is perfect for a crowd, as it yields multiple servings.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 turkey legs
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place turkey legs on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the glaze evenly over each turkey leg, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the turkey legs rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Herb Butter Basted Turkey Legs
Elevate your turkey leg game with this simple and flavorful recipe that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 turkey legs
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Place turkey legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between each leg.
4. Spread the herb butter mixture evenly over each turkey leg, making sure to coat all surfaces.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. Garnish with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Orange and Ginger Roasted Turkey Legs
Elevate your turkey leg game with this aromatic and juicy recipe, where the sweetness of orange and spice of ginger perfectly complement the natural flavor of turkey.
Ingredients:
– 2 turkey legs
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, honey, and grated ginger.
3. Place turkey legs in a roasting pan and brush the glaze all over them.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
BBQ Dry Rub Turkey Legs with Apple Cider
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this mouthwatering recipe that combines the richness of BBQ dry rub with the sweetness of apple cider.
Ingredients:
– 4 turkey legs
– 1/2 cup BBQ dry rub (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup apple cider
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the BBQ dry rub and brown sugar.
3. Remove any excess fat from the turkey legs and pat them dry with paper towels.
4. Generously sprinkle the dry rub mixture all over the turkey legs, making sure they’re evenly coated.
5. Place the turkey legs on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
6. Drizzle the apple cider evenly over the turkey legs, making sure they’re nicely glazed.
7. Sprinkle the smoked paprika over the top of each leg.
8. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the turkey is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Rosemary Garlic Butter Turkey Legs
Rosemary Garlic Butter Turkey Legs: A flavorful twist on classic roasted turkey legs!
Ingredients:
– 2-3 turkey legs (thighs and drumsticks)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, and chopped rosemary leaves.
3. Season turkey legs with salt and pepper.
4. Spread the rosemary-garlic butter mixture evenly over each turkey leg, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place turkey legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each leg.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pineapple Teriyaki Turkey Legs
Elevate your tailgating or BBQ game with this mouthwatering recipe that combines the juiciness of turkey legs with the sweetness of pineapple and the savory flavors of teriyaki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 turkey legs
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Fresh pineapple wedges and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger.
3. Add turkey legs to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Remove turkey legs from marinade and brush with olive oil.
5. Grill turkey legs for 20-25 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Serve hot, garnished with pineapple wedges and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Smoked Turkey Legs with Bourbon Glaze
Get ready to elevate your smoked turkey game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the rich flavor of bourbon with the tender, fall-off-the-bone texture of slow-smoked turkey legs.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 turkey legs
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey (such as Maker’s Mark or Woodford Reserve)
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, bourbon whiskey, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the turkey legs in the smoker, and cook for 4-5 hours or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
4. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush the bourbon glaze all over the turkey legs.
5. Remove from heat, let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Garlic Parmesan Crusted Turkey Legs
Elevate your turkey leg game with this flavorful and crispy recipe, perfect for a special occasion or everyday dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 turkey legs (about 1 pound each)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, panko breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Season turkey legs with salt and pepper.
4. Dip each turkey leg into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated turkey legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with chopped parsley (if using).
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Sweet and Spicy Chipotle Turkey Legs
Sweet and Spicy Chipotle Turkey Legs Recipe
Get ready to spice up your turkey game with this mouth-watering Sweet and Spicy Chipotle Turkey Legs recipe! This dish combines the richness of turkey legs with a sweet and spicy chipotle glaze, perfect for a unique twist on a classic.
Ingredients:
– 4 turkey legs
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, brown sugar, chipotle peppers, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil.
3. Season turkey legs with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Place turkey legs in a shallow baking dish and brush the glaze evenly over both legs.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Herb-Roasted Turkey Legs with Lemon Zest
Elevate your Thanksgiving or holiday meal with this flavorful and aromatic recipe that combines the rich taste of turkey legs with a burst of citrusy freshness.
Ingredients:
– 4 turkey legs (thighs and drumsticks)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced (about 2 tbsp zest and 4 tbsp juice)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, and salt.
3. Rub the mixture all over the turkey legs, making sure to coat them evenly.
4. Place the turkey legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Remove from the oven and brush with lemon juice and zest during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Brown Sugar and Soy Glazed Turkey Legs
Elevate your turkey game with this unique glaze recipe that combines the richness of brown sugar and soy sauce for a sweet and savory twist.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 turkey legs, drumsticks and thighs
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, soy sauce, honey, and apple cider vinegar until well combined.
3. Brush the glaze all over the turkey legs, making sure they’re fully coated.
4. Place the turkey legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the turkey legs and season 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 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Garlic and Sage Roasted Turkey Legs
Elevate your turkey game with this aromatic recipe that combines the pungency of garlic and the earthiness of sage. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy weekend dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 turkey legs (about 2 lbs total)
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the turkey legs under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, olive oil, and sage.
4. Rub the mixture all over the turkey legs, making sure to coat them evenly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the turkey legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Baste with pan juices every 20 minutes.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Citrus and Herb Marinated Turkey Legs
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with this flavorful and aromatic marinated turkey leg recipe. The perfect blend of citrus, herbs, and spices will leave your guests wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 4 turkey legs
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together orange juice, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the turkey legs to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove turkey from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Grill turkey legs for 20-25 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Five-Spice Roasted Turkey Legs with Honey
Elevate your turkey game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the warmth of five-spice powder with the richness of honey. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 turkey legs (about 2 lbs total)
– 2 tbsp five-spice powder
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp honey
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together five-spice powder, olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
3. Place the turkey legs in a large bowl and brush the spice mixture evenly over both legs.
4. Roast the turkey legs in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. During the last 10 minutes of roasting, drizzle the honey over the turkey legs.
6. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: About 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the juiciest, most flavorful turkey legs ever! This collection of 20 mouth-watering recipes offers something for everyone. From classic flavors like garlic and herb to sweet and spicy options like maple mustard glaze, there’s a recipe to satisfy your taste buds. Try adding smoky paprika and brown sugar or balsamic glaze with rosemary for a depth of flavor. Whether you’re looking for an easy oven-roasted meal or a show-stopping main course, these turkey leg recipes are sure to please.
