Oven Roasted Turkey Legs - A Juicy, Flavorful Meal

Nothing says comfort food quite like oven roasted turkey legs. Perfectly crispy, juicy skin giving way to tender, flavorful meat in just a few easy steps - roast turkey makes an irresistible entree. Read on to learn tips for selecting, preparing, seasoning, and cooking turkey legs in the oven.

Benefits of Cooking Turkey Legs

Roasting turkey legs has many advantages:

• Time and budget friendly - Inexpensive cut that cooks quickly
• Easy to prepare - Just season and pop in the oven
• Naturally flavorful - Thigh meat stays juicy when roasted
• Versatile - Pairs well with many flavors and sides
• Impressive presentation - Looks bountiful and rustic

Let's get these legs prepped and roasting!

Choosing Turkey Legs

When shopping, look for legs that are:

• 8 to 16 oz in size
• Evenly covered in skin
• Meat is pinkish beige in color
• Not torn or punctured
• Little visible fat or cartilage

For even cooking, choose legs similar in size and shape.

Preparing Turkey Legs for Roasting

To prep legs before cooking:

• Rinse and pat dry thoroughly
• Trim off any excess fat or skin
• Make shallow slashes through the skin
• Season generously with salt, pepper, and herbs
• Chill uncovered in fridge at least 4 hours to dry out skin

Seasoning and Flavoring

Consider rubs and injections like:

• Cajun or jerk seasoning
• Herb blends like rosemary, thyme, sage
• Spice rubs with paprika, garlic, cumin
• Citrus-herb marinades
• Brines for added moisture and flavor

Get creative with globally inspired spices and aromatics!

Roasting Technique

To roast turkey legs:

• Preheat oven to 350°F.
• Place legs on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet.
• Roast 40-60 minutes until skin is crispy.
• Check temperature to confirm doneness.

Basting and rotating partway will help cook evenly.

Determining Doneness

Check for doneness by:

• Temperature of 175°F with meat thermometer
• Skin is golden brown and crispy
• Meat has shrunk back from ends of bone
• Cut to check if juices run clear

If underdone, return to oven until fully cooked.

Serving Suggestions

Serve roasted turkey legs with:

• Mashed or roasted potatoes
• Biscuits or corn bread
• Coleslaw, salad or roasted veggies
• Cranberry sauce, gravy or chutney

Pairings like these make it a complete and satisfying meal.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Refrigerate leftover turkey legs:

• In air-tight container up to 4 days
• Submerged in broth up to 1 week

Reheat gently in oven or microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

What's the difference between roasting and baking?

There is no difference. The terms are interchangeable.

What oven temperature works best?

350°F allows the legs to cook through without burning the outside.

Do the legs need to be uncovered while roasting?

Yes, uncovered allows the skin to crisp up. Tent with foil if browning too quickly.

Can I stuff the turkey legs?

Absolutely! Stuffing adds even more flavor. Just increase cooking time as needed.

Can I roast a turkey leg from frozen?

Yes, add about 30 minutes to the cooking time if starting from frozen.

Tender, Juicy Oven Roasted Turkey

With just a little prep and simple seasoning, oven roasted turkey legs deliver juicy, comforting flavor. Crisp skin gives way to tender, succulent meat in this rustic dish. Serve with hearty sides for a meal that will satisfy any hearty appetite.