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Irresistible Garlic Butter Roasted Turkey Legs

garlic butter roasted turkey legs - featured image

Tender, juicy turkey legs roasted with a flavorful garlic butter marinade, perfect for holiday meals or hearty comfort food.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 34 large turkey legs or drumsticks
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 68 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
  • 2 tablespoons chopped thyme
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • Juice from 1 fresh lemon

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the rack in the center position.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
  3. Pat the turkey legs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Rub olive oil all over the legs, then spread the garlic butter mixture generously on each one, ensuring even coverage.
  4. Place the turkey legs on a wire rack set inside the roasting pan. Roast in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes.
  5. After 45 minutes, baste the turkey legs with the drippings in the pan. This step is optional but highly recommended for added juiciness.
  6. Continue roasting for another 15-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the leg.
  7. Remove the pan from the oven and tent the turkey legs with aluminum foil. Let them rest for 10 minutes to lock in the juices.

Notes

[‘Pat the turkey legs dry before seasoning to ensure crispy skin.’, ‘Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature for safe consumption.’, ‘Basting halfway through roasting enhances flavor and keeps the meat moist.’, ‘Prepare the garlic butter and season the turkey legs a day in advance for deeper flavor.’, ‘Let the turkey rest under foil for at least 10 minutes after cooking to retain juices.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: Garlic Butter, Roasted Turkey Legs, Holiday Recipe, Comfort Food, Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easy Dinner