Baked Turkey Drumsticks
Juicy, tender baked turkey drumsticks infused with savory onions, celery, and crispy bacon, perfect for hearty family dinners or special gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wrap each turkey drumstick tightly in aluminum foil with 2 tablespoons chopped onions, 2 tablespoons chopped celery, 2 slices fried bacon, and 2 tablespoons cooking oil.
- Season the wrapped drumsticks with salt, pepper, and celery salt.
- Place the foil-wrapped drumsticks in a shallow pan.
- Bake in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 1.5 to 2 hours until very tender and juicy.
- Alternatively, the drumsticks can also be baked on an outdoor grill.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding garlic or herbs such as thyme or rosemary inside the foil with the other ingredients. If you don’t have bacon, you can substitute with pancetta or omit it for a lighter version. Ensure the turkey is completely thawed before cooking for even results. Wrapping tightly in foil helps retain moisture for tender meat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked turkey drumsticks with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. They pair beautifully with Classic Red Kidney Beans And Rice for a hearty option. For a festive touch, consider a cranberry sauce on the side. Don't forget to reserve some of the pan juices for drizzling on top.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover baked turkey drumsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the drumsticks in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them on a low setting, but this may affect the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Turkey Drumsticks contains roughly 21 calories, with 0g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 511mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh turkey drumsticks instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh turkey drumsticks instead of frozen ones. If using fresh, reduce the cooking time slightly, checking for tenderness around the 1-hour mark. The cooking method remains the same, and the result should be just as juicy and flavorful.
What should I do if I don’t have aluminum foil?
If you don't have aluminum foil, you can use a baking dish covered with a lid or another oven-safe cover. Alternatively, parchment paper can be used, but make sure to tightly seal it to keep moisture locked in. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary to ensure the turkey cooks thoroughly.
Can I cook these drumsticks in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! To cook turkey drumsticks in a slow cooker, layer the chopped onions and celery at the bottom, then place the wrapped drumsticks on top. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This method will also yield tender and juicy meat, perfect for your meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).