Barbecued Turkey Legs
Juicy barbecued turkey legs with smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors, perfect for casual gatherings or family dinners, offering tender meat with bold sauce.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sprinkle the turkey legs with salt and pepper.
- Place the turkey in a crock-pot.
- Combine molasses, vinegar, catsup, Worcestershire sauce, hickory smoke, and minced onion to make the sauce.
- Pour the sauce over the turkey in the crock-pot.
- Cover and cook on low for 5 to 7 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, marinate the turkey legs in the sauce overnight before cooking. If you don't have hickory smoke, liquid smoke can be a suitable substitute. You can also use honey instead of molasses for a different sweetness. Consider using a mix of spices like paprika and garlic powder to enhance the taste.
Serving Suggestions
These barbecued turkey legs are perfect for a casual gathering or game day. Serve them with classic sides like coleslaw or baked beans for a hearty meal. They also pair beautifully with Marty'S Meatballs if you're looking for a variety of flavors on your table.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover turkey legs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them on low for 2-3 minutes, ensuring they stay moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbecued Turkey Legs contains roughly 141 calories, with 1g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1600mg per serving (70% 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 chicken legs instead of turkey?
Yes, chicken legs can be used as a substitute for turkey. Adjust the cooking time to about 4 to 6 hours on low in the crock-pot, as chicken cooks faster than turkey. The sauce will still work wonderfully with chicken's flavor.
What can I serve with these turkey legs?
These turkey legs are great with sides like cornbread, potato salad, or grilled vegetables. You might also consider serving them alongside a refreshing salad or even paired with a hearty dish like Chicken Or Turkey Dressing Casserole for a filling meal.
Can I make this recipe in the oven instead of a crock-pot?
Absolutely! To cook in the oven, preheat it to 325°F (163°C) and place the seasoned turkey legs in a baking dish. Pour the sauce over them and cover with foil. Bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the turkey is tender and cooked through.
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).