Easy Roasted Turkey Legs: A perfectly seasoned oven-roasted turkey leg recipe is a great way to enjoy juicy, tender turkey without having to roast the entire bird. Furthermore, they are incredibly tasty, as anyone who has sampled a juicy turkey leg at Disney World can attest.
Roast turkey, in my opinion, is a great option for family dinners any time of year, and your loved ones will be delighted with the outcome! I don’t think it’s just for Christmas and Thanksgiving.
However, cooking the entire bird can be quite difficult, so I was thrilled to find enormous turkey legs for sale at my neighborhood supermarket recently.
Instead of cooking a large bird, a whole turkey leg is incredibly affordable, easily feeding four to six people, and ideal for small Thanksgiving gatherings or any small holiday dinner. Even better? You will be amazed how incredibly easy it is to prepare!.
If you are serving a smaller group of dark meat enthusiasts, these tender turkey legs are a great alternative. Forget basting, brining, and getting hot and bothered about roasting the perfect turkey!
PS: For a quick substitute for a whole roast turkey, try my Turkey Roll Recipe! If you prefer white meat, try my simple Roast Turkey Crown recipe!
Turkey legs are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or as part of a larger meal. They are also a great option for those who are looking for a more affordable alternative to roasting a whole turkey. But how long do you actually need to cook turkey legs in the oven to ensure they are cooked through and juicy?
Cooking Time Factors
The cooking time for turkey legs will vary depending on a few factors, including:
- The size of the legs: Larger legs will take longer to cook than smaller legs.
- The type of oven: Convection ovens cook food faster than traditional ovens.
- The temperature of the oven: A higher oven temperature will cook the legs faster.
- Whether the legs are covered or uncovered: Covering the legs with foil will help them cook faster and more evenly.
General Cooking Time Guidelines
As a general rule of thumb you can expect to cook turkey legs in the oven for about 1 hour per pound. However, it is always best to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the legs to ensure they are cooked through. The safe internal temperature for turkey is 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Here is a table that provides more specific cooking time guidelines for turkey legs:
| Weight of Turkey Leg | Cooking Time at 325°F | Cooking Time at 350°F | Cooking Time at 400°F |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-2 pounds | 1-1.5 hours | 1-1.25 hours | 45-60 minutes |
| 2-3 pounds | 1.5-2 hours | 1.25-1.75 hours | 60-75 minutes |
| 3-4 pounds | 2-2.5 hours | 1.75-2.25 hours | 75-90 minutes |
Tips for Cooking Turkey Legs
Here are a few tips for cooking turkey legs in the oven:
- Preheat your oven to the desired temperature before you start cooking.
- Pat the turkey legs dry with paper towels before seasoning them. This will help the seasoning adhere to the skin.
- Season the turkey legs generously with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices.
- Place the turkey legs on a baking rack set over a baking sheet. This will allow the legs to cook evenly and prevent them from sticking to the pan.
- Baste the turkey legs with melted butter or olive oil every 30 minutes or so. This will help keep the skin moist and prevent it from drying out.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the legs. The safe internal temperature for turkey is 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Let the turkey legs rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
Cooking turkey legs in the oven is a simple and easy way to prepare a delicious and satisfying meal. By following the guidelines and tips above, you can ensure that your turkey legs are cooked to perfection
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need to marinate turkey legs before roasting them?
A: Marinating is optional, but it can help to enhance the flavor of the meat. You can season the turkey legs with the spice mix and let them marinate for a few hours or overnight in the fridge before roasting.
Q: Can I roast turkey legs at 350°F?
A: Yes, you can roast them at 350°F, but be prepared for a cooking time approximately 30 minutes longer.
Q: Can I roast frozen turkey legs?
A: If you have frozen turkey legs, it is recommended to thaw them overnight in the fridge before cooking. Cooking the meat from frozen will take much longer time and may result in uneven cooking.
Q: What is the simple seasoning I can use for turkey legs?
A: My favorite simple seasoning is a mix of salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried rosemary, dried sage, dried oregano, and black pepper.
Additional Resources
Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
How To Roast Turkey Legs
Full measurements and instructions can be found on the printable recipe card at the bottom of the page. Please take a look at the steps and video before attempting this recipe!.
STEP 1: Rub the turkey with olive oil. Combine all the ingredients for the rub and then sprinkle liberally over the turkey on both sides.
STEP 2: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). After lining a roasting pan with foil or baking paper, arrange the slices of onion, rosemary, and lemon on top of it.
Step 3: Put the turkey leg on top, skin side down, and bake for 30 minutes in the oven that has been preheated. The legs should be cooked for a further 40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 75°C (167°F), after turning them over, skin side up. This method is a great way to achieve the perfect mix of crispy skin and succulent, juicy meat.
STEP 4: Rest the turkey, loosely covered with aluminum foil, for 20-30 minutes. Slice and serve as your main dish with your favorite sides!.
Here’s what you will need
- Turkey legs – my 1. The 6 kg (3½ pound) turkey leg was cut into sections for the legs and thighs.
- Olive oil
- Garlic powder, oregano, dried parsley, sugar, salt, pepper, paprika, cayenne, and lemon zest make up the seasoning rub.
- Lemons, onions, and rosemary sprigs serve as a trivet for the turkey legs to cook on.
- Digital thermometer
- A good carving set
