Forget the notion that turkey legs are only for special occasions or a fairground treat. For me, growing up in Louisiana, the comforting aroma of turkey legs simmering low and slow in the kitchen was a staple. After years of perfecting recipes and a decade of sharing culinary insights, I’ve mastered a Crockpot method that consistently delivers turkey legs so tender they literally fall off the bone. This recipe transforms humble turkey drumsticks into a succulent, flavor-packed meal that’s surprisingly easy to prepare.
These Slow Cooker Turkey Legs are your secret weapon for effortlessly tender and juicy drumsticks. Whether you’re planning a grand Thanksgiving feast or simply seeking a comforting weeknight dinner, this Crockpot recipe promises rich flavor and an incredibly satisfying texture. Prepare to indulge in turkey legs that are moist, deeply seasoned, and so soft you won’t even need a knife.
Table of Contents
The Magic of Slow Cooking Turkey Legs
There’s something uniquely satisfying about slow-cooked meat, and turkey legs are no exception. The “low and slow” cooking method in a Crockpot is particularly beneficial for poultry cuts like turkey legs, which can easily become dry if cooked too quickly or at too high a temperature. This method ensures that every fiber of the meat is gently tenderized, allowing it to absorb all the wonderful flavors from the broth and spices. The result is consistently moist, succulent turkey that practically melts in your mouth, making it an ideal choice for busy cooks who want gourmet results with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Turkey Leg Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: This recipe requires very little hands-on time, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Simply prep, set, and let your slow cooker do all the work.
- Fall-Off-The-Bone Tenderness: The slow cooking process breaks down tough muscle fibers, resulting in incredibly tender meat that easily pulls away from the bone.
- Rich, Juicy Flavor: Braising in broth infused with aromatic spices keeps the turkey moist and imbues it with deep, savory flavors.
- Versatile Seasoning: While we provide a fantastic base, this recipe is highly adaptable to your preferred spice blends and flavor profiles.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Elegant enough for a holiday meal, yet simple enough for a casual family dinner.
Crockpot Turkey Legs Ingredients: What You’ll Need
Creating these incredibly tender slow cooker turkey legs starts with just a few simple, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that sought-after fall-off-the-bone texture and rich flavor.
- Turkey Legs: The star of our dish! Look for fresh or thawed turkey drumsticks. Their dark meat is ideal for slow cooking as it stays moist and flavorful. You can adjust the quantity based on your slow cooker size and serving needs.
- Broth: Chicken, vegetable, or even turkey broth works wonderfully. Using broth instead of water adds an essential layer of savory flavor to the cooking liquid, which then infuses into the turkey.
- Olive Oil: A little olive oil helps the seasonings adhere to the turkey skin and contributes to a beautiful, golden crust if you choose to crisp the skin at the end.
- Spices: This is where the magic happens! Our recommended blend includes Creole seasoning for a vibrant kick, smoked paprika for depth and a hint of smoky flavor, plus classic salt and pepper to taste. This combination creates a savory, aromatic coating that truly enhances the turkey.
- Liquid Smoke (Optional): For those who love a deeper, more pronounced smoky flavor without needing a smoker, a touch of liquid smoke can be a fantastic addition.
Creative Seasoning Ideas for Turkey Legs
While our core spice blend is undeniably delicious, one of the joys of cooking is experimentation. Turkey legs are incredibly versatile and can adapt to a wide array of flavor profiles. Here are some fantastic ideas to inspire your next batch:
- Homemade BBQ Seasoning and Rub: For a sweet and savory kick with a hint of smoky goodness, a quality BBQ rub is unbeatable. It creates a caramelized crust and infuses the meat with a classic backyard BBQ flavor.
- Homemade Blackened Seasoning: If you enjoy a bold, spicy, and slightly smoky flavor, blackened seasoning is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for adding a Louisiana-style punch that complements the rich turkey meat.
- Homemade Ranch Seasoning: For a creamy, herbaceous, and tangy profile, ranch seasoning offers a unique twist. It’s especially popular with kids and adds a familiar, comforting taste.
- Cajun Seasoning: Embrace the vibrant flavors of the South with a robust Cajun seasoning blend. Expect a delightful combination of paprika, garlic, onion, and various peppers that deliver a savory heat.
- Lemon Pepper Seasoning: For a bright, zesty, and peppery finish, lemon pepper seasoning is a refreshing option. It pairs wonderfully with the richness of turkey and adds a citrusy lift.
- Herbs de Provence: A fragrant French blend featuring thyme, rosemary, oregano, and lavender, offering a sophisticated and aromatic touch.
- Garlic Herb Rub: Combine minced garlic, dried rosemary, thyme, sage, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for an aromatic, rustic flavor.
Don’t be afraid to mix and match or create your own signature blend! The key is to generously coat the turkey legs, ensuring the flavors penetrate every part of the meat during the slow cooking process.
How to Make Slow Cooker Turkey Legs: Step-by-Step Guide
Achieving perfectly tender and flavorful turkey legs in your slow cooker is simpler than you might think. Follow these detailed steps to ensure a delicious outcome every time:
- Prepare the Turkey Legs: Start by thoroughly patting the turkey legs dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as it helps the olive oil and seasonings adhere better to the skin, leading to a more flavorful crust. Once dry, rub them generously with olive oil, ensuring an even coating. Then, liberally apply your chosen spice blend, salt, and pepper all over the turkey legs, massaging the spices into the skin. If using liquid smoke, add it with the olive oil.
- Layer in the Crockpot: Pour one cup of broth (chicken, vegetable, or turkey) into the bottom of your slow cooker. This liquid creates a moist environment for braising, preventing the turkey from drying out and infusing it with extra flavor. Carefully place the seasoned turkey legs into the slow cooker, arranging them so they are nestled comfortably in the broth but not completely submerged.
- Slow Cook Until Tender: Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-8 hours. The exact cooking time can vary slightly depending on the size of your turkey legs and the specific model of your slow cooker. The most important indicator of doneness is the internal temperature: ensure it reaches a minimum of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the meat, away from the bone, using a reliable meat thermometer. The meat should also be incredibly tender, practically falling off the bone when gently prodded with a fork.
- Optional Crisping Step (Highly Recommended): For those who love crispy skin, transfer the cooked turkey legs from the slow cooker to a baking sheet. You can then broil them in the oven for 3-5 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning, or use an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 3-4 minutes. This step adds a wonderful textural contrast to the tender meat.
- Rest and Serve: Once removed from the heat (and after crisping, if desired), allow the turkey legs to rest for at least 10 minutes before serving. This crucial resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in an even juicier and more flavorful turkey. Spoon some of the flavorful broth from the slow cooker over the turkey legs, or reserve it to make a rich gravy.
Elevate Your Meal: How to Add Gravy
A rich, savory gravy is the perfect accompaniment to tender turkey legs. The drippings from your slow cooker provide an excellent base for an incredibly flavorful gravy. Here’s a simple method to transform those delicious pan juices:
- Collect Drippings: Once the turkey legs are removed from the slow cooker, carefully pour the remaining liquid (drippings) into a saucepan.
- Separate Fat (Optional): If there’s a significant layer of fat, you can skim some of it off for a lighter gravy, or leave it for a richer flavor.
- Create a Slurry: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of cornstarch or all-purpose flour with 1/4 cup of cold water or additional broth until smooth.
- Thicken Gravy: Bring the drippings in the saucepan to a simmer over medium heat. Gradually whisk in the cornstarch slurry, stirring constantly, until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency. If it’s too thick, add a little more broth or water; if too thin, simmer longer or add more slurry.
- Season to Taste: Taste the gravy and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want to add a pinch more salt, pepper, or even a dash of garlic powder or onion powder to enhance the flavor.
Serve this homemade gravy generously over your slow-cooked turkey legs and any accompanying side dishes. For more detailed instructions and alternative gravy recipes, you can explore my Turkey Gravy from Drippings and Smothered Turkey Wings Recipe, which often include excellent gravy techniques.
Slow Cooker Turkey Legs
Author: Brandi Crawford
These Slow Cooker Turkey Legs are made in the Crockpot and are perfect for achieving fall-off-the-bone tender drumsticks. They are wonderfully tender and juicy, ideal for Thanksgiving or any weeknight meal.
Pin Recipe
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 8 hrs
Total Time: 8 hrs 15 mins
Course: Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine: American
Servings: 2 turkey legs
Calories: 512 kcal
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Equipment Needed
- Slow Cooker
A reliable slow cooker is essential for achieving tender, moist turkey legs with minimal effort. Look for one with a capacity of 6 quarts or more to comfortably fit two large turkey legs.
- Meat Thermometer
A good meat thermometer is crucial for ensuring the turkey is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), guaranteeing food safety and perfect doneness.
- Paper Towels
For patting the turkey legs dry before seasoning, which helps the spices adhere better and contributes to a crispier skin (if broiled).
- Baking Sheet (optional)
If you prefer crispy skin, a baking sheet is needed to transfer the cooked turkey legs to the oven for broiling or to an air fryer basket.
Ingredients
-
2 raw turkey legs
Mine weighed about ½-¾ of a pound each. Feel free to cook as many as your slow cooker can comfortably hold without overcrowding. -
1 tablespoon olive oil
Or another high-heat cooking oil of your choice. -
1 teaspoon liquid smoke
Optional, for a pronounced smoked flavor without needing a smoker. -
½ tablespoon Creole Seasoning
Adds a vibrant, savory, and slightly spicy kick. Adjust to your preference. -
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
Enhances the smoky notes and adds a beautiful color. -
salt and pepper to taste
Adjust according to the saltiness of your broth and seasoning blend. -
1 cup broth
I used chicken broth, but vegetable or turkey broth works just as well to add flavor and moisture.
Instructions
- Prepare and Season: Begin by thoroughly patting the turkey legs dry with paper towels. This helps ensure the seasonings adhere well. Rub both sides of each turkey leg with olive oil and optional liquid smoke. Generously sprinkle the Creole seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over all sides of the drumsticks. Use your hands to thoroughly rub the spices into the meat and skin, ensuring a complete and even coating. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; more flavor is better!
- Load the Slow Cooker: Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of your slow cooker. This liquid will create a steamy, flavorful environment for the turkey to cook in. Carefully place the well-seasoned turkey legs into the slow cooker, arranging them in a single layer if possible, ensuring they are nestled above the broth but not fully submerged.
- Cook to Perfection: Secure the lid on your slow cooker. Cook the turkey legs on the HIGH setting for 3-4 hours, or on the LOW setting for 6-8 hours. The goal is an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer in the thickest part of the meat, avoiding the bone. The meat should be incredibly tender and easily pull away from the bone, indicating it’s perfectly cooked.
- Remove Carefully: Once cooked, carefully remove the turkey legs from the slow cooker. Be gentle, as they will be extremely tender and may literally fall off the bone or break apart if handled too roughly. Use tongs or a slotted spoon.
- Achieve Crispy Skin (Optional but Recommended): For a delightful contrast to the tender meat, you can crisp up the skin. Transfer the cooked turkey legs to a baking sheet. Broil them in the oven for about 3-5 minutes, keeping a close eye on them to prevent burning, or use an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 3-4 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the turkey legs to rest for 10 minutes before serving. This brief resting period is essential for the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful. Spoon some of the flavorful cooking liquid over the top, or use it as a base for gravy.
Notes
Turkey Wings: You can absolutely use turkey wings in this recipe instead of legs, with no adjustment to the cook time. Always ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
Custom Seasoning: Feel free to experiment with your favorite spice rubs and blends. This recipe is very forgiving and adapts well to various flavor profiles, from smoky BBQ to zesty lemon pepper. Ensure generous seasoning for best results.
Temperature Check: Always use a reliable meat thermometer to check for doneness. Insert it into the thickest part of the meat, avoiding the bone. The turkey is safe to eat once it reaches 165°F (74°C).
Don’t Overcrowd: For best results, avoid overcrowding your slow cooker. Turkey legs should fit comfortably, ideally in a single layer, to ensure even cooking and tender results. If cooking a larger batch, you might need to use a bigger slow cooker or cook in batches.
Nutrition
Serving: 1 turkey leg
Calories: 512 kcal
Carbohydrates: 1 g
Protein: 66 g
Fat: 28 g
Nutrition Data
Macros are provided as a courtesy and should not be construed as a guarantee. This information is calculated using MyFitnessPal.com. To obtain the most accurate nutritional information in a given recipe, you should calculate the nutritional information with the actual ingredients used in your recipe, using your preferred nutrition calculator. You are solely responsible for ensuring that any nutritional information provided is accurate, complete, and useful.
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Frequently Asked Questions and Expert Tips
Absolutely! Cooked turkey legs are excellent for meal prep. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. When ready to serve, reheat gently in the oven or air fryer to maintain moisture and flavor. You can also pull the meat off the bone and use it in sandwiches, salads, or casseroles.
For this recipe, one cup of liquid is sufficient. I highly recommend using broth (chicken, vegetable, or turkey) over plain water, as it significantly enhances the flavor of the turkey and the resulting drippings. The goal is to create a moist braising environment without fully submerging the turkey legs, allowing them to gently steam and tenderize.
You’ll know Crockpot turkey legs are perfectly done when the meat is fall-off-the-bone tender and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the meat, avoiding the bone. The beauty of slow cooking is that it’s quite forgiving; simply let them go low and slow until the meat pulls away effortlessly with a fork. Additionally, the juices should run clear, and the meat should be opaque and juicy, not pink.
The trick to keeping turkey legs incredibly juicy in the Crockpot lies in a few key factors. First, ensure you have enough broth or cooking liquid in the pot – one cup is usually perfect for two large legs – so the meat can braise and stay moist. Second, stick to the lower heat setting if time allows, as cooking too hot or for excessively long periods can draw out moisture. Finally, don’t skip the resting step! Letting the turkey legs sit for about 10 minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite remains tender and succulent.
My favorite methods for reheating leftover turkey legs are the air fryer (350°F / 175°C until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes) or the oven (350°F / 175°C until warm, covering loosely with foil to prevent drying). You can also microwave them for a quicker option, but be aware that this can sometimes result in slightly drier meat. A splash of broth or water added before reheating can help maintain moisture.
You can easily freeze leftover cooked turkey drumsticks. Once completely cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring as much air is removed as possible. For best taste and texture, they will last up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, defrost the legs overnight in the refrigerator and then warm them using your preferred method (oven, air fryer, or microwave).
I’ve prepared turkey legs using various methods, including air frying, baking, and slow cooking. While each method has its merits, for that truly melt-in-your-mouth, fall-off-the-bone tenderness, the slow cooker or Crockpot reigns supreme. The consistent, gentle heat and moist environment of a slow cooker are unparalleled in breaking down the meat fibers to achieve that coveted texture. This makes it incredibly easy to eat and ensures the turkey is succulent, allowing you to enjoy your toppings and the turkey meat effortlessly.
Yes, absolutely! Adding vegetables like carrots, celery, onions, or potatoes can create a delicious one-pot meal. Add heartier vegetables (carrots, potatoes) during the last 2-3 hours of cooking on low, or during the last hour on high, to ensure they cook through without becoming mushy. Softer vegetables (peas, green beans) can be added during the last 30 minutes.
While not strictly necessary for tenderness, searing the turkey legs in a hot pan for a few minutes per side before placing them in the slow cooker can add an extra layer of flavor and create a more appealing, browned exterior. This step caramelizes the skin and spices, locking in more robust flavors. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step and still achieve fantastic results.
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Turkey Legs
These incredibly tender slow cooker turkey legs are versatile and pair beautifully with a wide array of side dishes. Here are some of my favorite recipes that complement the rich flavors of the turkey, creating a complete and satisfying meal:
- Southern Soul Food Mac and Cheese: Creamy, cheesy, and utterly comforting, this mac and cheese is a classic pairing that never disappoints.
- Baked Crab Legs: For an indulgent and impressive spread, the sweetness of crab legs provides a wonderful contrast to the savory turkey.
- Seafood Mac and Cheese: An elevated version of mac and cheese, combining two comfort food favorites into one spectacular dish.
- Southern Cornbread Dressing: A staple holiday side, its savory, herbaceous flavors are a perfect match for turkey.
- Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes: The sweet and tender potatoes offer a delightful balance to the savory turkey.
- Southern Mustard Greens: A vibrant, slightly bitter side that cuts through the richness of the turkey, adding depth to your plate.
- Southern Baked Beans: Sweet, smoky, and hearty, these beans are a flavorful addition to any meal featuring turkey legs.
- Southern Turnip Greens: Another nutritious and flavorful green, cooked until tender with savory seasonings.
- Southern Black Eyed Peas: A flavorful and traditional side that brings a taste of the South to your table.
- Instant Pot Black Eyed Peas: A quicker version of the classic, ensuring perfectly cooked peas every time.
- Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Brown Sugar: Creamy, sweet, and incredibly smooth, these mashed potatoes are a delightful alternative to candied yams.
- Slow Cooker Black Eyed Peas: For those who love the low and slow method for their sides as well, these peas are tender and packed with flavor.
More Delicious Turkey Leg and Turkey Wing Recipes
If you’re a fan of turkey legs and wings, there are many ways to prepare these flavorful cuts. Explore these other recipes for different cooking methods and taste experiences:
- Air Fryer Turkey Wings: For incredibly crispy wings with less oil and a quick cooking time.
- Air Fryer Turkey Legs: Achieve golden-brown, crispy skin and tender meat in under an hour.
- Smothered Turkey Wings: Cooked in a rich, flavorful gravy until melt-in-your-mouth tender.
- Baked Turkey Wings: A classic method that yields juicy wings with a delicious, seasoned crust.
- Stuffed Turkey Legs: An impressive dish where turkey legs are deboned and filled with a savory stuffing.
- Baked Turkey Legs: A straightforward and delicious oven-baked option for tender turkey.
Explore More Turkey Recipes
Beyond legs and wings, turkey is a versatile protein that can be enjoyed in countless ways throughout the year. Here are more fantastic turkey recipes to expand your culinary repertoire:
- Slow Cooker Crockpot Boneless Turkey Breast: Perfect for a smaller gathering or a healthy weeknight meal, delivering juicy turkey breast with minimal effort.
- Traeger Smoked Turkey: For an unforgettable smoky flavor, ideal for holiday feasts or special occasions.
- Leftover Turkey Chili: A hearty and comforting way to transform leftover turkey into a brand new meal.
- Leftover Turkey Nachos: A fun and easy snack or meal using your holiday leftovers.
- Leftover Turkey Wild Rice Soup: Warm and nourishing, perfect for a cozy evening.
- Turkey Bone Broth Recipe: Make your own nutritious and flavorful broth from turkey bones.
- Turkey and Cheese Sliders: Quick, easy, and always a crowd-pleaser for parties or simple meals.
- Smoked Turkey Necks: A rich and flavorful addition to gumbos, soups, or served on their own.
- Slow Cooker Crockpot Turkey Necks: Achieve incredibly tender turkey necks with deep flavor, perfect for incorporating into other dishes or enjoying as a standalone.
Don’t forget to pair any of these turkey dishes with our incredibly flavorful Turkey Gravy From Drippings recipe for the ultimate culinary experience.
With this ultimate guide, you’re now equipped to create the most incredible slow cooker turkey legs that are tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this foolproof Crockpot method guarantees perfect results every time. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and prepare to delight your family and friends with a truly memorable meal!