Slow Roasted Turkey Legs (Printable version)
Tender turkey legs cooked slowly for juicy meat and crisp, flavorful skin in a hearty dish.
# What You'll Need:
→ Turkey
01 - 4 large turkey legs (approximately 10.5–12 oz each)
→ Marinade & Seasoning
02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 2 teaspoons kosher salt
04 - 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
05 - 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
06 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
07 - 1 teaspoon dried thyme
08 - 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
09 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
→ Vegetables
10 - 1 large onion, sliced
11 - 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
12 - 2 celery stalks, cut into chunks
13 - 4 garlic cloves, smashed
→ Additions
14 - 1 cup chicken or turkey broth
15 - 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted (optional)
# How to Prepare:
01 - Set oven temperature to 300°F.
02 - Pat the turkey legs dry using paper towels.
03 - Combine olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, thyme, rosemary, and onion powder in a small bowl to create an even paste.
04 - Rub the seasoning paste uniformly over each turkey leg.
05 - Spread sliced onion, carrots, celery chunks, and smashed garlic cloves evenly across the bottom of a large roasting pan.
06 - Place the seasoned turkey legs atop the bed of vegetables.
07 - Pour the broth into the roasting pan without drenching the turkey legs.
08 - Cover the roasting pan tightly with aluminum foil and roast for 2 hours.
09 - Remove foil; if desired, brush turkey legs with melted butter. Increase oven temperature to 400°F and roast uncovered for 25–30 minutes until skin is golden, crisp, and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
10 - Let turkey legs rest for 10 minutes before serving.
# Expert advice:
01 -
- This recipe unlocks juicy, tender turkey with a crispy outer layer that feels like a little secret between friends
- The slow roasting allows flavors to deepen naturally, making each bite a perfect experience you can count on every time
02 -
- Drying the turkey legs before seasoning is a game changer for that crispy skin you crave
- Cooking low and slow then finishing hot gives you juicy meat with a beautifully textured crust
03 -
- Marinating the turkey legs overnight really deepens the spice flavor—plan ahead for best results
- Using a meat thermometer ensures perfect doneness without guesswork every time