How Long to Bake Turkey Legs: Easy Guide for Juicy Results

How Long Does It Take to Bake Turkey Legs?

Turkey legs are a delicious, hearty choice for any dinner table—whether you’re planning a holiday feast or just craving something different for a weeknight meal. But one of the most common questions home cooks have is: How long does it take to bake turkey legs? In this friendly guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to bake turkey legs perfectly every time. From prep tips and oven temperatures to flavor-boosting ideas and serving suggestions, you’ll find all the details you need right here.

Recommended Baking Time and Temperature

For juicy, tender turkey legs, the standard recommendation is to bake them at 350°F (175°C). At this temperature, turkey legs usually take about 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes to cook thoroughly. The most important thing is to make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C)—this ensures your turkey is safe and delicious.

• Oven Temperature: 350°F (175°C)
• Baking Time: 60–75 minutes
• Safe Internal Temperature: 165°F (74°C)

If you’re cooking extra-large turkey legs or want them especially tender, you can extend the baking time by 10–15 minutes. Always use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the leg.

How to Prepare Turkey Legs for Baking

1. Pat Dry: Use paper towels to dry the turkey legs. This helps the skin crisp up in the oven.
2. Season Generously: Brush the legs with olive oil or melted butter, then season with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs or spices (think paprika, garlic powder, thyme, or rosemary).
3. Arrange in Pan: Place the turkey legs on a baking sheet or in a roasting pan. For easy cleanup, line your pan with foil or parchment paper.
4. Add Moisture (Optional): For extra tenderness, pour a little chicken broth or water into the bottom of the pan.

Baking Instructions for Perfect Turkey Legs

1. Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake Covered (Optional): If you want extra-juicy meat, cover the pan with foil for the first half of baking. This traps steam and keeps the meat moist.
3. Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil halfway through so the skin gets crispy and golden brown.
4. Check for Doneness: After about an hour, use a meat thermometer to check that the thickest part of each leg has reached 165°F (74°C).
5. Rest Before Serving: Let the turkey legs rest for about 10 minutes after baking. This helps keep the juices inside when you cut into them.

Tips for Extra Flavorful Turkey Legs

• Brine Ahead: Soaking turkey legs in a saltwater brine for a few hours (or overnight) makes them extra juicy and flavorful.
• Marinate: Try marinating with lemon juice, herbs, garlic, or your favorite BBQ sauce before baking.
• Add Veggies: Scatter onions, carrots, or potatoes around the turkey legs in your pan for an easy one-pan meal.
• Baste Occasionally: Spoon pan juices over the legs during baking for even more flavor.

How to Tell When Turkey Legs Are Done

The best way to know if your turkey legs are ready is by using a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the leg (without touching bone). When it reads at least 165°F (74°C), your turkey is safe to eat.

If you don’t have a thermometer, pierce the meat with a knife—the juices should run clear, not pink.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Sides: Mashed potatoes, stuffing, green beans, or cranberry sauce are always a hit.
• Gravy: Use the pan drippings to make a quick gravy for drizzling over your turkey legs and sides.
• Cornbread or Rolls: Fresh bread is perfect for soaking up extra juices.
• Roasted Veggies: Roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes pair beautifully with turkey.

Storing Leftover Turkey Legs

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.
• Freeze: For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to three months.
• Reheat Gently: Warm leftovers in a low oven (about 300°F/150°C) or microwave until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I bake frozen turkey legs?

Yes! You can bake frozen turkey legs, but they’ll take longer—usually about 1.5 to 2 hours at 350°F (175°C). For best results, thaw them in the fridge overnight before baking.

Should I cover turkey legs while baking?

Covering the pan with foil for part of the baking time helps keep the meat moist. Remove the foil halfway through so the skin crisps up nicely.

How do I get crispy skin on baked turkey legs?

To get that irresistible crispy skin, bake uncovered for at least half of the cooking time. You can also broil the legs for the last few minutes—just keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!

What seasonings go well with turkey legs?

Turkey legs pair well with classic herbs like rosemary, thyme, sage, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper. Don’t be afraid to try spice blends like Cajun or BBQ rubs for something different.

Can I use this method for smoked or grilled turkey legs?

Absolutely! While this guide focuses on oven-baked turkey legs, similar times and temperatures can be used on a grill (with indirect heat) or smoker. Just make sure to reach that magic internal temp of 165°F (74°C).

Final Thoughts

Baking turkey legs at home is easier than you think! With just a few simple steps and some flavorful seasoning, you’ll have juicy, tender turkey legs that are perfect for any occasion. Remember: check your internal temperature, let them rest before serving, and don’t be afraid to get creative with sides and seasonings. Happy cooking!