20 Delicious Turkey Leg Recipes for Every Occasion

Turkey legs aren’t just for Thanksgiving anymore! Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner, a seasonal favorite, or some hearty comfort food, we’ve got you covered with 20 mouthwatering recipes that’ll make turkey legs the star of any meal. From smoky BBQ to cozy slow-cooked delights, there’s something here for every occasion. Ready to give these versatile favorites a delicious twist? Let’s dive in!

Herb-Roasted Turkey Legs

Transform your dinner into a feast with these Herb-Roasted Turkey Legs, bursting with flavor and perfectly crispy skin.

Ingredients

• 2 large turkey legs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme, 2 cloves minced garlic, and 1/2 teaspoon paprika.
3. Rub the herb mixture all over the turkey legs, ensuring they’re evenly coated.
4. Place the turkey legs on the prepared baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the skin is golden and crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. Let the turkey legs rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

The combination of fresh herbs and garlic creates a fragrant crust that locks in the turkey’s natural juices, making every bite succulent and flavorful.

Tip: For an extra crispy skin, broil the turkey legs for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, watching closely to prevent burning.

Smoked Turkey Legs with Applewood

There’s something irresistibly hearty about biting into a perfectly smoked turkey leg, especially when it’s infused with the sweet, smoky aroma of applewood.

Ingredients

• 4 turkey legs
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• Applewood chips for smoking

Instructions

1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F and add a handful of applewood chips to the coals.
2. In a small bowl, mix together 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tbsp smoked paprika, 1 tbsp garlic powder, 1 tbsp onion powder, 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp black pepper, and 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper to create a rub.
3. Coat the turkey legs evenly with the rub, making sure to get under the skin for maximum flavor.
4. Place the turkey legs in the smoker and smoke for about 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. Let the turkey legs rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

The combination of the smoky applewood and the spicy rub creates a depth of flavor that’s both bold and nuanced, making these turkey legs a standout dish at any gathering.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, brush the turkey legs with a little apple cider vinegar during the last 30 minutes of smoking.

BBQ Glazed Turkey Legs

These BBQ Glazed Turkey Legs are a game-changer for your next cookout, offering a perfect balance of smoky and sweet with a sticky glaze that’s irresistible.

Ingredients

• 4 turkey legs
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 350°F) and brush the grates with olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup BBQ sauce, 2 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper to create the glaze.
3. Pat the turkey legs dry and place them on the grill. Cook for 25 minutes, turning occasionally, until they start to brown.
4. Brush the turkey legs generously with the glaze every 10 minutes, turning each time, for an additional 30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. Remove from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

The magic of this recipe lies in the double-duty glaze, which not only flavors the turkey legs but also creates a caramelized crust that’s packed with depth. Tip: For an extra smoky flavor, add a handful of soaked wood chips to your grill.

Garlic Butter Turkey Legs

These Garlic Butter Turkey Legs are a game-changer for your next family dinner, offering a juicy, flavorful twist on a classic favorite.

Ingredients

• 4 turkey legs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
3. Place the turkey legs on the prepared baking sheet and brush them generously with the garlic butter mixture, ensuring they’re fully coated.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the turkey legs reach an internal temperature of 165°F and the skin is crispy and golden.
5. Let the turkey legs rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

The magic of this recipe lies in the garlic butter marinade, which not only infuses the turkey with incredible flavor but also keeps it irresistibly moist. Perfect for those who love a crispy skin with tender, juicy meat underneath.

Tip: For an extra crispy skin, broil the turkey legs for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Honey Mustard Turkey Legs

These Honey Mustard Turkey Legs are a game-changer for your next family dinner, combining sweet, tangy, and savory flavors in every bite.

Ingredients

• 4 turkey legs
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup honey, 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
3. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the turkey legs and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
4. Transfer the turkey legs to the prepared baking sheet and brush generously with the honey mustard mixture.
5. Bake at 375°F for 35-40 minutes, basting with the sauce every 10 minutes, until the turkey legs are cooked through and the skin is crispy.

The magic of this recipe lies in the double mustard punch, which creates a depth of flavor that’s irresistibly sticky and slightly spicy.

Tip: Let the turkey legs rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in those juicy flavors.

Spicy Cajun Turkey Legs

Get ready to spice up your dinner routine with these Spicy Cajun Turkey Legs, a dish that packs a punch of flavor and is surprisingly simple to make.

Ingredients

• 4 turkey legs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with foil.
2. In a small bowl, mix together 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper to create a spicy Cajun rub.
3. Pat the turkey legs dry with paper towels, then generously coat each leg with the spice mixture, ensuring they’re fully covered.
4. Place the turkey legs on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 45 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

The magic of this recipe lies in the crispy, spice-crusted skin that locks in the turkey’s juices, making every bite a flavorful delight.

Tip: For an extra kick, serve with a side of creamy coleslaw to balance the heat.

Slow Cooker Turkey Legs with Vegetables

There’s something incredibly comforting about coming home to tender turkey legs and vegetables that have been simmering all day in a slow cooker. This recipe is a no-fuss, flavorful meal that practically cooks itself!

Ingredients

• 2 turkey legs (about 1.5 lbs each)
• 1 cup baby carrots
• 1 cup diced potatoes
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup chicken broth

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the turkey legs and sear on all sides until golden brown, about 3 minutes per side.
2. Transfer the turkey legs to the slow cooker. Add the baby carrots, diced potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic around the turkey.
3. Sprinkle the salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and dried rosemary evenly over the turkey and vegetables. Pour the chicken broth over everything.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the turkey is tender and falls off the bone.
5. Serve the turkey legs and vegetables hot, spooning some of the cooking liquid over the top for extra flavor.

The slow cooking process infuses the turkey with the herbs and creates a broth that’s rich and aromatic, making this dish a standout for its depth of flavor.

Tip: For an extra crispy skin, broil the turkey legs for 2-3 minutes after slow cooking.

Maple Glazed Turkey Legs

These Maple Glazed Turkey Legs are a show-stopping centerpiece for any dinner table, combining sweet and savory flavors in every juicy bite.

Ingredients

• 4 turkey legs
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with foil.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup pure maple syrup, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
3. Place the turkey legs on the prepared baking sheet and brush them generously with the maple glaze.
4. Bake for 45 minutes, brushing with more glaze every 15 minutes, until the turkey is cooked through and the skin is crispy and caramelized.

The magic of this recipe lies in the glaze’s deep caramelization, creating a sticky, flavorful crust that’s impossible to resist.

Tip: For an extra crispy skin, broil the turkey legs for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, watching closely to prevent burning.

Turkey Legs with Cranberry Sauce

Transform your dinner table into a festive feast with these succulent Turkey Legs smothered in a tangy Cranberry Sauce, a dish that promises to be the star of any meal.

Ingredients

• 2 turkey legs (about 1.5 lbs each)
• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup fresh cranberries, 1/2 cup orange juice, and 1/4 cup honey. Simmer for 10 minutes until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens slightly.
2. While the sauce simmers, pat the turkey legs dry and rub them with 1 tbsp olive oil. Season evenly with 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, and 1/2 tsp onion powder.
3. Place the turkey legs on a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Brush the legs with the cranberry sauce and continue roasting for another 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
4. Let the turkey legs rest for 5 minutes before serving. Drizzle with the remaining cranberry sauce for an extra burst of flavor.

The magic of this dish lies in the cranberry sauce’s perfect balance of sweet and tart, which beautifully complements the savory, herb-infused turkey. It’s a simple yet impressive way to elevate your poultry game.

Tip: For an extra crispy skin, broil the turkey legs for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Orange Rosemary Turkey Legs

Transform your dinner routine with these Orange Rosemary Turkey Legs, where citrusy brightness meets herby warmth in every bite.

Ingredients

• 4 turkey legs
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a baking dish large enough to fit the turkey legs in a single layer.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh rosemary, orange zest, orange juice, honey, salt, and black pepper.
3. Place the turkey legs in the prepared baking dish and pour the orange rosemary mixture over them, turning to coat evenly.
4. Bake uncovered for 45 minutes, then baste the turkey legs with the pan juices. Continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the turkey is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

The magic of this dish lies in the caramelized edges of the turkey, where the honey and orange juice reduce into a sticky, flavorful glaze. It’s a simple yet impressive centerpiece that brings a touch of elegance to weeknight dinners.

Tip: For an extra burst of flavor, let the turkey legs marinate in the orange rosemary mixture for an hour before baking.

Turkey Legs with Mushroom Gravy

Nothing says comfort like tender turkey legs smothered in a rich mushroom gravy, a dish that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat.

Ingredients

• 2 turkey legs (about 1.5 lbs each)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 2 cups sliced mushrooms
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Pat the turkey legs dry with paper towels, then rub them all over with olive oil. Sprinkle evenly with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme.
2. Place the turkey legs on a baking sheet and roast for 45 minutes, or until the skin is golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
3. While the turkey legs are roasting, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re softened and lightly browned.
4. Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms, stirring to coat. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 2 minutes, until the gravy thickens. Stir in the heavy cream and simmer for another minute.
5. Serve the turkey legs hot, smothered in the mushroom gravy. The combination of crispy skin and creamy gravy makes this dish a standout for any dinner table.

Tip: For an extra flavor boost, try adding a splash of white wine to the gravy after the mushrooms have browned.

Baked Turkey Legs with Herbs

Nothing says comfort like juicy, herb-infused turkey legs straight from the oven. This recipe is a game-changer for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings.

Ingredients

• 4 turkey legs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 1 tsp dried sage

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Pat the turkey legs dry with paper towels, then rub them all over with 2 tbsp olive oil.
3. In a small bowl, mix together 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1 tsp dried rosemary, and 1 tsp dried sage.
4. Sprinkle the herb mixture evenly over the turkey legs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Arrange the turkey legs on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 45-50 minutes, until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

The magic of this recipe lies in the crispy, golden skin that locks in all the herby goodness, making every bite irresistibly flavorful.

Tip: For an extra crispy skin, broil the turkey legs for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Turkey Legs in Red Wine Sauce

Transform your dinner into a gourmet experience with these succulent Turkey Legs in Red Wine Sauce, a dish that promises rich flavors and tender meat with every bite.

Ingredients

• 2 turkey legs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup red wine
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon butter

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Heat olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Season turkey legs with salt and black pepper, then sear until golden brown on all sides, about 3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft, about 2 minutes. Pour in red wine and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in dried thyme.
3. Return the turkey legs to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over them. Cover and transfer to the oven. Bake for 1 hour, or until the turkey is tender and cooked through.
4. Remove the skillet from the oven and transfer the turkey legs to a plate. Stir butter into the sauce until melted and slightly thickened. Serve the turkey legs with the red wine sauce poured over the top.

The magic of this dish lies in the red wine sauce, which reduces into a velvety glaze that perfectly complements the hearty turkey. It’s a showstopper that’s surprisingly simple to pull off.

Tip: For an even deeper flavor, let the turkey legs marinate in the red wine sauce overnight before cooking.

Grilled Turkey Legs with Lemon Pepper

Grilled Turkey Legs with Lemon Pepper bring a zesty twist to your barbecue, perfect for those who love a bit of tang with their smoky flavors.

Ingredients

• 4 turkey legs
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon pepper seasoning
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 lemon, sliced

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat, about 350°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tbsp lemon pepper seasoning, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp garlic powder.
3. Brush the turkey legs generously with the olive oil mixture, ensuring they’re fully coated.
4. Place the turkey legs on the grill and cook for 25 minutes, turning occasionally, until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. During the last 5 minutes of grilling, add the lemon slices to the grill, cooking until slightly charred.
6. Serve the turkey legs hot off the grill with the grilled lemon slices on top for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

The combination of smoky grill marks and bright lemon pepper makes these turkey legs irresistibly juicy and flavorful, a standout at any cookout.

Tip: For an even deeper flavor, marinate the turkey legs in the olive oil mixture for an hour before grilling.

Turkey Legs with Sweet Potato Mash

Nothing says comfort like tender turkey legs paired with creamy sweet potato mash—a hearty dish that’s sure to warm you up from the inside out.

Ingredients

• 2 turkey legs (about 1.5 lbs each)
• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
• 1 tsp salt, divided
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 cup milk
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp brown sugar

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Rub turkey legs with 2 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Place on a baking sheet and roast for 45 minutes, or until skin is crispy and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
2. Meanwhile, boil sweet potatoes in salted water for 15 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and return to pot.
3. Add milk, butter, brown sugar, and remaining 1/2 tsp salt to sweet potatoes. Mash until smooth and creamy.
4. Serve turkey legs hot over a bed of sweet potato mash, drizzled with remaining 1 tbsp olive oil for extra richness.

The smoky paprika on the turkey legs creates a beautiful contrast with the natural sweetness of the mash, making every bite a delightful balance of flavors.

Tip: For an extra crispy skin, broil the turkey legs for the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Curried Turkey Legs

Transform your dinner routine with these succulent Curried Turkey Legs, a dish that brings a delightful twist to your table with its aromatic spices and tender meat.

Ingredients

• 2 turkey legs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp curry powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground turmeric
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup coconut milk

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Heat olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium heat. Add the turkey legs and brown on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the onion and garlic, sautéing until soft, about 3 minutes. Stir in the curry powder, cumin, turmeric, salt, and black pepper, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and coconut milk, stirring to combine. Return the turkey legs to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over them.
4. Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until the turkey is tender and cooked through.

The magic of this recipe lies in the creamy coconut milk melding with the bold curry spices, creating a sauce that’s irresistibly rich and flavorful. Perfect for when you’re craving something a little different but oh-so-satisfying.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, let the turkey legs marinate in the curry spices for an hour before cooking.

Turkey Legs with Green Beans and Almonds

Transform your weeknight dinner with these succulent Turkey Legs paired with crisp green beans and toasted almonds for a dish that’s as nutritious as it is flavorful.

Ingredients

• 2 turkey legs (about 1.5 lbs each)
• 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a large bowl, toss the green beans with 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper until evenly coated. Spread them out on a baking sheet.
2. In the same bowl, mix the turkey legs with the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 1 tsp garlic powder, and 1/2 tsp paprika. Place the turkey legs on top of the green beans on the baking sheet.
3. Bake for 45 minutes, then sprinkle the sliced almonds over the green beans. Continue baking for another 15 minutes, or until the turkey legs are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
4. Let the turkey legs rest for 5 minutes before serving. The almonds will toast to perfection in the oven, adding a delightful crunch to every bite.

The combination of juicy turkey, tender green beans, and crunchy almonds creates a symphony of textures that’s sure to impress. Perfect for when you want a hearty meal that doesn’t skimp on freshness.

Tip: For an extra flavor boost, drizzle a little lemon juice over the dish before serving.

Turkey Legs in Creamy Garlic Sauce

Transform your dinner into a cozy feast with these succulent Turkey Legs in Creamy Garlic Sauce, a dish that promises rich flavors and tender meat with every bite.

Ingredients

• 2 turkey legs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season turkey legs with salt and black pepper, then sear in the skillet until golden brown, about 3 minutes per side.
2. Remove turkey legs and set aside. In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits.
3. Stir in heavy cream, dried thyme, and paprika. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then return the turkey legs to the skillet, spooning some sauce over them.
4. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake uncovered for 45 minutes, or until the turkey legs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.

The magic of this dish lies in the creamy garlic sauce, which infuses the turkey with moisture and a depth of flavor that’s irresistibly comforting. Perfect for those nights when you crave something hearty yet elegant.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the turkey legs during the last 10 minutes of baking.

Turkey Legs with Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Nothing says comfort like tender turkey legs paired with caramelized Brussels sprouts, a dish that brings warmth to any table.

Ingredients

• 2 turkey legs (about 1.5 lbs each)
• 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with 2 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1/2 tsp garlic powder until evenly coated.
2. Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 20 minutes, stirring halfway, until they’re golden and crispy.
3. While the sprouts roast, rub turkey legs with the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, and 1/2 tsp smoked paprika.
4. After the sprouts have roasted for 20 minutes, push them to one side of the baking sheet and add the turkey legs. Return to the oven and bake for another 35 minutes, or until the turkey is fully cooked and the skin is crispy.
5. Drizzle balsamic vinegar over the Brussels sprouts and turkey legs before serving. The vinegar adds a sweet tang that perfectly complements the smoky paprika and garlic.

The magic of this dish lies in the contrast between the juicy, herbaceous turkey and the crispy, slightly bitter Brussels sprouts, all brought together with a splash of balsamic.

Tip: For extra crispy skin, pat the turkey legs dry with paper towels before seasoning.

Turkey Legs with Cornbread Stuffing

Nothing says comfort like tender turkey legs paired with savory cornbread stuffing, a dish that brings warmth to any table.

Ingredients

• 4 turkey legs
• 2 cups crumbled cornbread
• 1/2 cup diced celery
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried sage
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1 cup chicken broth

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a baking dish.
2. In a bowl, mix crumbled cornbread, celery, onion, 1/4 cup melted butter, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1 tsp dried sage, and 1/2 tsp dried thyme. Stir in 1 cup chicken broth until moist.
3. Place turkey legs in the prepared dish and season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spoon the cornbread mixture around the turkey legs, covering them slightly.
5. Bake at 375°F for 50 minutes, or until the turkey legs reach an internal temperature of 165°F and the stuffing is golden on top.

The magic of this recipe lies in the crispy-edged stuffing that soaks up all the juicy flavors from the turkey as they bake together.

Tip: For an extra crispy top, broil the dish for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.

Conclusion

We hope this roundup of 20 delicious turkey leg recipes inspires your next meal, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering. Each recipe offers a unique twist to savor this versatile cut. Don’t forget to try your favorites, share your thoughts in the comments, and pin the recipes you love on Pinterest. Happy cooking!

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