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Turkey Legs with BBQ Sauce

Turkey Legs with BBQ Sauce

  • Author: Christopher
  • Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes to 2 hours 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Turkey Legs with BBQ Sauce is a hearty and flavorful dish combining tender, juicy turkey legs infused with smoky, sweet barbecue sauce and smoked turkey bacon. Slow-cooked to perfection, this recipe delivers fork-tender meat with a mouthwatering caramelized glaze, perfect for family gatherings or casual meals. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, it offers versatility and delicious leftovers for meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale

Turkey Legs and Seasoning

  • 4 fresh or thawed turkey legs with skin on
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

BBQ Sauce and Enhancers

  • 1 cup smoky BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar

Additional Flavor

  • 4 slices smoked turkey bacon

Instructions

  1. Prepare and Season the Turkey Legs: Rinse the turkey legs and pat them dry thoroughly. Evenly coat each leg with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful dry rub foundation.
  2. Add Smoked Turkey Bacon for Extra Flavor: Wrap each turkey leg loosely with smoked turkey bacon to enhance smokiness and help retain moisture during cooking.
  3. Preheat Your Oven or Grill: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) or prepare your grill to medium heat. Slow and steady cooking helps tenderize the meat and develop rich flavors.
  4. Apply the BBQ Sauce: Brush a generous amount of BBQ sauce over the turkey legs, covering all surfaces. The sauce will act both as a marinade and glaze, caramelizing nicely as it cooks.
  5. Cook Low and Slow: Place the turkey legs on a baking tray or grill rack. Cook for 2 to 2.5 hours, basting occasionally with more BBQ sauce. The skin should become caramelized and slightly charred while the meat turns tender inside.
  6. Rest Before Serving: Let the turkey legs rest for 10 to 15 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring the meat remains juicy and flavorful.

Notes

  • Marinate turkey legs in BBQ sauce and apple cider vinegar for several hours or overnight to deepen flavor.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
  • Cook slowly at low heat to avoid drying out and achieve tender meat with caramelized sauce.
  • Baste frequently with extra BBQ sauce during cooking to enhance moisture and flavor.
  • Allow the meat to rest after cooking to maintain juiciness and ease slicing.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 to 2.5 hours
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 turkey leg with sauce
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 45g
  • Cholesterol: 130mg

Keywords: turkey legs, BBQ sauce, smoked turkey bacon, slow cooked turkey, barbecue, smoked paprika, apple cider vinegar, honey, tender turkey, gluten free

Find it online: https://easyrecipeplanet.com/turkey-legs-with-bbq-sauce/