Are you tired of the same old turkey dishes at your holiday gatherings? Look no further! We’ve got a mouth-watering collection of 20 delicious turkey legs recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. From classic herb-roasted legs to spicy Cajun-inspired flavors, and from sweet maple mustard glazes to savory garlic parmesan crusts, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at each of these mouth-watering recipes, including Herb-Roasted Turkey Legs with Garlic Butter, Smoky Paprika and Honey Glazed Turkey Legs, Lemon Rosemary Roasted Turkey Legs, and many more. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for some inspiration for your next gathering, we’ve got the perfect recipe to make your turkey legs truly unforgettable.
Herb-Roasted Turkey Legs with Garlic Butter
Elevate your holiday meal with this mouthwatering recipe for herb-roasted turkey legs smothered in garlicky goodness. Perfect for a crowd, these tender and juicy turkey legs are infused with aromatic herbs and a rich garlic butter.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 turkey legs
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place turkey legs in a large baking dish and brush with the herb mixture, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Dot each leg with softened butter.
5. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Smoky Paprika and Honey Glazed Turkey Legs
Elevate your game day snacks with these sweet and smoky turkey legs, perfect for a crowd.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 turkey legs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp honey
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, smoked paprika, honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar.
3. Season turkey legs with salt and pepper.
4. Brush the glaze mixture evenly onto both sides of each turkey leg.
5. Place turkey legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Rosemary Roasted Turkey Legs
Lemon Rosemary Roasted Turkey Legs Recipe
A classic combination of bright citrus flavors and earthy herbal notes elevate this simple roasted turkey leg recipe to new heights.
Ingredients:
– 2 turkey legs (about 1 pound each)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place turkey legs in a roasting pan, skin side up.
4. Brush the lemon-rosemary mixture evenly over both turkey legs.
5. Roast 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
Spicy Cajun Turkey Legs with Crispy Skin
Get ready to spice up your turkey game with this bold and flavorful recipe! These turkey legs are smothered in a spicy Cajun seasoning blend, resulting in crispy skin and juicy meat.
Ingredients:
– 2 turkey legs (3 lbs each)
– 1/4 cup Cajun seasoning
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush both turkey legs with vegetable oil and season evenly with the spice blend.
4. Place turkey legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, skin side up.
5. Bake for 45 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 55 minutes
Maple Mustard Glazed Turkey Legs
Elevate your turkey game with this sweet and tangy maple mustard glaze, perfect for a special occasion or everyday dinner. This recipe yields tender and flavorful turkey legs smothered in a sticky, syrupy glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 turkey legs
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup whole-grain mustard
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp 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, and olive oil.
3. Season turkey legs with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
4. Brush the glaze all over the turkey legs, making sure they’re fully coated.
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 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Crusted Turkey Legs
Elevate your turkey game with this crispy and flavorful recipe! Crunchy garlic parmesan crust adds a delightful twist to traditional roasted turkey legs.
Ingredients:
– 4 turkey legs, skin removed
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Drizzle turkey legs with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Sprinkle the garlic-parmesan mixture evenly over the turkey legs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place turkey legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
BBQ Dry Rub Turkey Legs with Charred Edges
Elevate your turkey leg game with this easy recipe that combines the savory flavors of a dry rub with the charred edges of grilled perfection.
Ingredients:
– 4 turkey legs
– 1/2 cup BBQ dry rub (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the BBQ dry rub and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
3. Season each turkey leg with salt and pepper, then coat evenly with the dry rub mixture.
4. Place turkey legs on the grill, charred edge side down (use a spatula to create crispy edges).
5. Cook for 20-25 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes total
Orange and Thyme Roasted Turkey Legs
Elevate your roasted turkey legs with the bright flavors of orange and thyme. This recipe yields tender, juicy legs with a sweet and savory glaze.
Ingredients:
• 2-3 turkey legs (thighs or drumsticks)
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, olive oil, honey, and thyme.
3. Season turkey legs with salt and black pepper.
4. Place the turkey legs in a roasting pan or baking dish lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the orange-thyme glaze all over the turkey legs, making sure they’re fully coated.
6. Roast for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through, basting with pan juices every 20 minutes.
7. Let the turkey legs rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Brown Sugar and Bourbon Glazed Turkey Legs
Elevate your game day or holiday gathering with these irresistible Brown Sugar and Bourbon Glazed Turkey Legs. The combination of caramelized brown sugar, rich bourbon, and savory turkey is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 turkey legs
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 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, bourbon, honey, mustard, and salt.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the turkey legs.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with pepper to taste.
5. Place turkey legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 25-30 minutes per pound, or until cooked through.
6. Glaze the turkey legs every 20 minutes during the last hour of cooking.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes (depending on size)
Mediterranean Herb-Marinated Turkey Legs
Mediterranean Herb-Marinated Turkey Legs: A flavorful twist on traditional turkey legs, this recipe combines the bold flavors of Mediterranean herbs with a tender and juicy turkey leg.
Ingredients:
– 4 turkey legs (thighs and drumsticks)
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the turkey legs to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Remove the turkey legs from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Place the 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
Slow-Roasted Turkey Legs with Root Vegetables
Elevate your roasted turkey legs game with this easy and flavorful recipe that pairs perfectly with a medley of root vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 turkey legs (about 1 pound each)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, peeled and chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 large parsnips, peeled and chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite herbs (e.g., thyme, rosemary, or sage)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Line a large roasting pan with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
3. In the prepared pan, place the turkey legs and drizzle with olive oil.
4. Arrange the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and parsnips around the turkey legs.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste; add your favorite herbs if desired.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 2-1/2 hours or until the turkey legs are tender and the root vegetables are caramelized.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Chili Lime Turkey Legs with Cilantro Drizzle
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with this flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional turkey legs. The combination of spicy chili powder, tangy lime juice, and fresh cilantro will leave your guests wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 4 turkey legs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Optional: 1-2 diced jalapeños for added heat
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the turkey legs, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the turkey legs and place on grill or baking sheet.
5. Grill for 20-25 minutes per side, or bake for 45-50 minutes.
6. In a small bowl, mix together lime juice and chopped cilantro.
7. Serve turkey legs with cilantro drizzle spooned over the top. If desired, add diced jalapeños on top.
Cooking Time: 40-60 minutes
Garlic Butter and Sage Turkey Legs
Elevate your turkey game with this aromatic recipe that combines the richness of garlic butter and the earthy flavor of sage.
Ingredients:
– 2 whole turkey legs (about 1 pound each)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, and chopped sage until well combined.
3. Season the turkey legs with salt and pepper.
4. Rub the garlic butter mixture all over the turkey legs, making sure they’re evenly coated.
5. Place the turkey legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the turkey rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pineapple Teriyaki Turkey Legs
Sweet and savory, this recipe combines the classic flavors of teriyaki sauce with the juiciness of pineapple to create a mouth-watering twist on traditional turkey legs.
Ingredients:
– 4 turkey legs (thighs and drumsticks)
– 1 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/2 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Fresh pineapple chunks (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, olive oil, ginger, and garlic powder.
3. Place turkey legs in a large baking dish and brush with the teriyaki mixture.
4. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour.
5. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the turkey is cooked through.
6. Garnish with fresh pineapple chunks, if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Rosemary and Red Wine Braised Turkey Legs
Elevate your holiday meal with this rich and aromatic braising recipe that showcases the bold flavors of rosemary and red wine. Perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in, these tender turkey legs are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 turkey legs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season turkey legs with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear turkey legs until browned, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Add chopped rosemary, onion, and garlic to the pot. Cook until vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add red wine and chicken broth to the pot. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
6. Return turkey legs to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Braise for 2-3 hours or until turkey is tender and falls-apart-easy.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Smoked Turkey Legs with Applewood Flavor
Get ready for a flavorful twist on classic turkey legs! This recipe infuses the rich taste of smoked turkey with the sweet and tangy essence of applewood.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 turkey legs
– 1 cup wood chips (applewood)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture evenly onto the turkey legs, making sure they’re well-coated.
4. Place the turkey legs in the smoker, fat side up.
5. Smoke for 4-6 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. During the last hour of smoking, add applewood chips to infuse the turkey with that sweet and tangy flavor.
Cooking Time: 4-6 hours
Five-Spice Roasted Turkey Legs
Elevate your holiday gathering with this savory and aromatic dish. Five-spice roasted turkey legs are a crowd-pleaser, perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 turkey legs (about 1 pound each)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 teaspoons five-spice powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse turkey legs and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together oil, five-spice powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush the mixture evenly onto both turkey legs, making sure they are fully coated.
5. Place turkey legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through, basting occasionally with chicken broth.
7. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Turkey Legs with Caramelized Onions
Elevate your game day or holiday gathering with these mouthwatering Balsamic Glazed Turkey Legs, perfectly paired with sweet and savory caramelized onions.
Ingredients:
– 4 turkey legs (about 2 lbs each)
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season turkey legs with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized (about 20-25 minutes).
4. Meanwhile, place turkey legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush balsamic glaze evenly onto the turkey legs, making sure to coat them thoroughly.
6. Place the glazed turkey legs in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve turkey legs with caramelized onions and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Jerk-Spiced Turkey Legs with Mango Salsa
Add a Caribbean twist to your next barbecue or picnic with these flavorful turkey legs smothered in a spicy jerk seasoning and served with a sweet and tangy mango salsa.
Ingredients:
– 4 turkey legs
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, brown sugar, soy sauce, and olive oil.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the turkey legs.
4. Grill or bake turkey legs for 30-40 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño pepper, and lime juice in a bowl.
6. Serve turkey legs with mango salsa spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pesto and Sun-Dried Tomato Stuffed Turkey Legs
Impress your guests with these flavorful and tender turkey legs, filled with a delicious pesto and sun-dried tomato mixture.
Ingredients:
– 4 turkey legs (about 2 lbs each)
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together pesto and chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
3. Rinse the turkey legs and pat dry with paper towels.
4. Stuff each leg with the pesto-sun-dried tomato mixture, dividing it evenly among the four legs.
5. Drizzle the tops of the turkey legs with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the stuffed 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
Summary
Get ready to elevate your turkey leg game with these 20 mouth-watering recipes! From classic herb-roasted legs to sweet and spicy glazes, we’ve got you covered. Try pairing juicy garlic butter with fresh rosemary, or smoky paprika with honey for a sweet and savory combination. For a twist, try Mediterranean herbs, Cajun spices, or even pineapple teriyaki. Whether you’re looking for a quick oven-bake or a slow-cooked masterpiece, these recipes will guide you to turkey leg perfection.