Turkey legs are a delicious and nutritious meal, but if not cooked properly, they can be dry and tough. To ensure that your turkey legs come out perfectly cooked and juicy, it is important to know how long to cook them. In this article, we will discuss how long to cook turkey legs, the best cooking methods, and tips for ensuring that your turkey legs are cooked to perfection.
How Long to Cook Turkey Legs
The exact cooking time for turkey legs will depend on the size of the legs, the cooking method, and the oven temperature. Generally speaking, turkey legs should be cooked at 350°F for 25-35 minutes per pound. For example, if you have 2-pound turkey legs, you should bake them for approximately 50-70 minutes. To check if they are done, you can use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F before they are ready to eat.
The Best Cooking Methods
The best way to cook turkey legs is in the oven. Baking at 350°F for 25-35 minutes per pound will ensure that the turkey legs are cooked through and juicy. You can also cook them on the grill or in a slow cooker. When grilling, make sure to cook the turkey legs over indirect heat for about 45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. For slow cooking, cook the turkey legs on low for 8-10 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Tips for Perfectly Cooked Turkey Legs
To ensure that your turkey legs turn out perfectly cooked every time, there are a few tips to keep in mind. First, make sure to preheat the oven before baking. This will ensure that the turkey legs cook evenly. Secondly, cover the turkey legs with aluminum foil before baking. This will help keep the turkey legs moist and juicy. Lastly, make sure to let the turkey legs rest for 10 minutes after they are done cooking. This will help the juices redistribute throughout the meat.
Conclusion
Cooking turkey legs can be a tricky task, but with the right cooking methods and tips, you can ensure that your turkey legs come out perfectly cooked and juicy every time. The key is to bake them in the oven at 350°F for 25-35 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. For grilling or slow cooking, follow the same guidelines. Finally, make sure to preheat the oven, cover the turkey legs with aluminum foil, and let them rest for 10 minutes after they are done cooking.
Conclusion
By following the tips outlined in this article, you can easily cook turkey legs to perfection every time. Remember to preheat the oven, cover the turkey legs with aluminum foil, and let them rest for 10 minutes after they are done cooking. With these simple steps, you can enjoy delicious and juicy turkey legs in no time.