Roasted Turkey Leg is a flavorful and hearty dish that brings out the best in this tender cut of meat. Slow-roasted to perfection, the turkey leg develops a crisp, golden skin while staying juicy and succulent inside. The seasoning is simple yet bold, with a combination of garlic, rosemary, and thyme enhancing the natural flavors of the turkey. This dish makes a great alternative to a whole turkey, perfect for smaller gatherings or a cozy family dinner. Serve it with mashed potatoes, stuffing, or roasted vegetables for a complete, satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 turkey legs (about 2-3 lbs)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional, for extra color)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or water)
- 1 tbsp butter (optional, for added richness)
- 1/2 lemon, sliced (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
- Season the Turkey Legs: Pat the turkey legs dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up during roasting. Rub the turkey legs with olive oil, then season them with minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, pepper, and paprika. Make sure the seasoning is evenly distributed, massaging it into the skin and under any folds.
- Roast the Turkey Legs: Place the turkey legs on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side up. Pour the chicken broth (or water) around the turkey legs to help keep the meat moist as it roasts. Optionally, place a small pat of butter on top of each turkey leg for extra richness.
- Roast and Baste: Roast the turkey legs in the preheated oven for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste the turkey legs with the pan juices every 30 minutes for a golden, crispy skin.
- Rest and Serve: Once the turkey legs are fully cooked, remove them from the oven and let them rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with lemon slices for a fresh burst of flavor, if desired.
This Roasted Turkey Leg is a satisfying and delicious meal, with crispy skin and juicy meat that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Enjoy it as a main dish for a cozy dinner or holiday feast!
