How Long to Bake Juicy, Flavorful Turkey Legs at 400 Degrees

Baking turkey legs in the oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit yields deliciously moist, tender meat with crispy skin But exactly how long should you bake turkey drumsticks at 400°F?

The baking time depends on the size and weight of the legs. Follow these timings for perfect results every time.

Turkey Leg Weights and Bake Times

• 1 lb turkey legs – bake at 400°F for 45-55 minutes
• 1.5 lb turkey legs – bake at 400°F for 60-70 minutes
• 2 lb turkey legs – bake at 400°F for 70-80 minutes

I recommend using an instant-read meat thermometer to check for doneness. Turkey legs are safely cooked at an internal temperature of 165°F.

Below I’ll explain my tips for ensuring your baked turkey legs turn out juicy and delicious.

Why Bake Turkey Legs at 400 Degrees?

There are a few key reasons why 400°F is an ideal baking temperature for turkey drumsticks

• It’s hot enough to crisp up the skin nicely.
• The legs cook through fully without drying out.
• It yields tender, flavorful meat in a reasonable timeframe.
• 400°F is a standard oven temperature easy to set.

Higher temperatures may overcook the meat while lower oven temperatures will lengthen the baking time.

How to Bake Juicy Turkey Legs Step-by-Step

Follow my simple instructions for baking moist turkey drumsticks every time

Ingredients:

• 2 turkey drumsticks (about 2 lbs total)
• 2 Tbsp olive oil or melted butter
• 2 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1⁄2 tsp garlic powder
• 1⁄2 tsp salt
• 1⁄4 tsp black pepper

Directions:

1. Rinse turkey legs under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.

2. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, thyme, paprika, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Rub spice mixture evenly over legs.

3. Place legs on a wire rack set on a rimmed baking sheet.

4. Bake at 400°F for 70-80 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.

5. After 35 minutes, remove pan and baste legs with pan juices to prevent drying out.

6. Once fully cooked, remove legs from oven and let rest 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for Perfect Baked Turkey Legs

Here are my handy tips for ensuring your turkey drumsticks turn out juicy, tender and full of flavor:

• Brine legs in a saltwater solution before baking to boost moisture.

• Dry legs thoroughly before seasoning so spices stick.

• Use a digital meat thermometer to verify doneness.

• Baste halfway through baking to prevent drying out.

• Elevate legs on a rack for even cooking all around.

• Let legs rest 10 minutes before cutting for juicier meat.

• Adjust bake times slightly up or down based on leg size.

How to Know When Legs Are Fully Cooked

It can be tricky knowing when thick turkey drumsticks are fully cooked through. Here are some ways to test for doneness:

• Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature in the thickest part of the meat. Turkey is safely cooked at 165°F.

• Insert a sharp knife into the meat near the bone. If juices run clear rather than pink, it is done.

• The meat will start to pull away from the bone slightly when fully cooked.

• Carefully wiggle the leg at the joint. It should feel loosened when cooked through.

Allowing a 10 minute rest before carving lets juices redistribute for juicier meat. If still pink inside, return to the oven for 5-10 more minutes.

Troubleshooting Baked Turkey Legs

Legs are undercooked

• Return to oven and bake 5-10 more minutes until thermometer shows 165°F.

Legs are overcooked or dry

• They may have baked too long or at too high of heat. Wrap in foil next time if browning too fast.

Skin isn’t crispy

• Ensure legs are thoroughly dried before baking. Rub with oil or butter and elevate on a rack.

Legs taste bland

• Brine legs in saltwater before baking and season generously with herbs, spices and rubs.

Satisfying Turkey Leg Meals

Baked turkey legs make for a hearty, delicious meal perfect on its own or paired with sides. Here are some serving ideas:

• Serve with mashed potatoes, stuffing or rice pilaf.

• Pair with roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots or squash.

• Add a fresh green salad or coleslaw on the side.

• Serve on buns with BBQ sauce for turkey leg sandwiches.

• Top with gravy for extra flavor and moisture.

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