Turkey Drumstick Recipe

Nothing beats a perfectly roasted Turkey Drumstick Recipe when you’re craving hearty, fall-off-the-bone flavor. This dish brings big holiday energy to your dinner table any time of the year with tender meat, crispy golden skin, and simple ingredients. Whether you’re making a weeknight meal or a Thanksgiving-style dinner for two, this Turkey Drumstick Recipe checks all the boxes: easy, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying. And yes, we’re saying it loud this is the Turkey Drumstick Recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Turkey Drumstick Recipe

There’s just something primal and comforting about biting into a giant turkey leg. But unlike the versions at amusement parks, this Turkey Drumstick Recipe is seasoned to perfection, oven-roasted (or air fried), and can be made with very little prep. You’ll love how the flavors soak deep into the meat, how the skin crisps up just right, and how little effort it takes.

Plus, turkey drumsticks are surprisingly affordable and easy to find. They’re packed with protein, naturally juicy, and great for low-carb or keto meals. Try pairing it with our Ultimate Turkey Neck Recipe for a double punch of savory turkey goodness.

Pure Comfort in Every Turkey Drumstick Recipe

A good Turkey Drumstick Recipe offers more than just a meal it’s comfort food at its best. Think warm spices, caramelized skin, juicy meat that pulls clean off the bone. This dish brings back memories of festive tables and family gatherings, but with none of the stress. It’s also a fantastic option for solo or small family dinners.

Craving even more comfort? Pair this with our rich and homestyle Smothered Turkey Wings Recipe to make your turkey dinner dreams come true.

Ingredients for Turkey Drumstick Recipe

2 large turkey drumsticks
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 cup chicken broth (or turkey broth)
1 tablespoon butter

What You Need to Make Turkey Drumstick Recipe

• Roasting pan or Dutch oven
• Basting brush
• Meat thermometer
• Aluminum foil
• Sharp knife and tongs
• Optional: air fryer for an ultra-crisp finish

Whether you’re going oven-style or trying an air fryer twist, this Turkey Drumstick Recipe adapts easily just like our Ultimate Guide to Turkey Injection Recipe.

Time to Cook Turkey Drumstick Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 90 minutes
Rest Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes

Steps to Make Turkey Drumstick Recipe

1. Prep the Drumsticks

Pat drumsticks dry with paper towels. Rub with olive oil. Mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper in a bowl, then coat the turkey evenly with this seasoning mix.

2. Sear for Flavor (Optional)

In a large Dutch oven or cast iron pan, sear the drumsticks on medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes per side to build a golden crust.

3. Roast It Low and Slow

Place turkey legs in a roasting pan. Add broth and Worcestershire sauce to the bottom. Cover with foil. Roast at 350°F (175°C) for 60 minutes.

4. Uncover and Crisp

Remove foil, baste the drumsticks with pan juices, and roast uncovered for 20–30 minutes more until the skin is crisp and meat is 165°F inside.

5. Rest and Serve

Let the drumsticks rest for 10 minutes. Spoon juices over the top and serve warm.

Looking for another low-fuss method? You could also try pressure-cooking or adapting to your air fryer just like our Frozen Crab Cakes in Air Fryer recipe shows.

Make Turkey Drumstick Recipe Perfect

• Baste regularly for crispy, flavorful skin.
• Don’t skip the resting step it helps redistribute the juices.
• Always use a meat thermometer. 165°F is your friend.
• Try marinating overnight with buttermilk or vinegar for tenderness.

Want more turkey tips? Learn why soaking works in our Why Do You Soak Turkey Wings in Vinegar? guide.

Mix Turkey Drumstick Recipe Up

Your Turkey Drumstick Recipe is ultra-customizable:

• Add rosemary, sage, or citrus zest for a fresh twist.
• Make it spicy with cayenne or hot sauce.
• Brush with BBQ sauce in the last 10 minutes.
• Use beer instead of broth for a deeper flavor.
• Try a dry brine the night before for next-level taste.

Perfect Partners for Turkey Drumstick Recipe

Round out your meal with:

• Mashed potatoes or sweet potato mash
• Roasted Brussels sprouts
• Cornbread or biscuits
• Garlic green beans
• Cranberry relish
• Buttery rice pilaf

Looking for more turkey pairings? Check out The Best Recipe Using Ground Turkey and Rice and expand your poultry game.

Busy Day Hero

This Turkey Drumstick Recipe is perfect for slow days and busy ones. You can prep it ahead, toss it in the oven, and get on with your day. Let the aroma fill your kitchen and dinner practically makes itself.

Work Ahead

Want to prep early? Here’s how:

• Season drumsticks the night before
• Store them in an airtight bag in the fridge
• Make your broth and seasonings in advance
• Reheat gently at 325°F covered with foil until hot

Batch cook extras and store for the week shredded turkey makes great tacos, wraps, or soups.

Save Some For Later

Leftovers? You’re in luck.

• Shred the meat and freeze in portions
• Add it to soups, casseroles, or grain bowls
• Store in airtight containers up to 4 days in the fridge
• Reheat in the oven or skillet for best texture

For creative leftover inspiration, explore our Ultimate Guide to Ground Turkey and Rice Recipes.

Everyone’s Happy with Turkey Drumstick Recipe

This meal is always a hit. It’s got the nostalgic flavors of the holidays, but it’s easy enough for weeknights. Picky eaters love the simplicity. Foodies love the customization. You’ll love how easy it is to make.

Good For You Too

Turkey drumsticks are lean, high in protein, and rich in iron and zinc. You’re getting all the goodness of turkey meat without the fuss of a whole bird. Skip the processed stuff this is clean, wholesome protein at its finest.

Easy Clean Up

Minimal pans. One roasting dish. No splatter. You can even line your pan with foil or parchment to make cleanup faster. It’s a big flavor with low mess exactly what we love in a great recipe.

Switch Turkey Drumstick Recipe Up

Don’t want to roast? No problem.

• Try braising the turkey legs in red wine and broth
• Slow cook them with root veggies
• Smoke them low and slow with hickory
• Shred them for sandwiches or tacos
• Air fry them with a spice rub for 25–30 minutes

Simply Perfect

This Turkey Drumstick Recipe is simplicity done right. With just a few ingredients and a little love, you get deeply flavored, juicy, crispy-skinned turkey legs that belong on any dinner table. It’s the kind of recipe you bookmark and share and you’ll want to make it again and again.

FAQs for Turkey Drumstick Recipe

1. Can I use frozen turkey drumsticks?

Yes, just thaw fully in the fridge overnight before cooking.

2. Should I brine them first?

Optional, but it adds extra moisture and flavor. Try a dry rub or overnight buttermilk soak.

3. Can I cook them in an air fryer?

Yes, air fry at 375°F for 25–30 minutes, turning halfway.

4. What temperature should turkey be cooked to?

Always cook to 165°F in the thickest part.

5. Can I make gravy from the drippings?

Absolutely! Just strain the pan juices and thicken with flour or cornstarch.

6. How long will leftovers last?

Up to 4 days in the fridge or 3 months in the freezer when stored properly.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a satisfying, budget-friendly, flavor-packed meal, this Turkey Drumstick is it. With a crispy outer layer, juicy meat, and the ability to take on any flavor profile you like, it’s a guaranteed winner. Try it once and you’ll be hooked whether it’s for Sunday supper or a weeknight treat.

Pair it with our Smothered Turkey Wings, spice it up like our Turkey Injection Recipes, or use it in your next Turkey and Rice Bowl.

Happy cooking with Rita chef ❤️!

Turkey Drumstick Recipe

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• Author: Rita
• Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Description

A juicy, crispy, and flavorful turkey drumstick recipe seasoned with garlic, smoked paprika, and thyme, then oven-roasted to perfection.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

2 large turkey drumsticks
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon dried thyme
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon butter

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Pat the turkey drumsticks dry and rub them with olive oil.
In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Coat the drumsticks evenly with the spice mixture.
(Optional) Sear the drumsticks in a hot pan for 2–3 minutes per side for a golden crust.
Place drumsticks in a roasting pan and pour in chicken broth and Worcestershire sauce.
Cover the pan with foil and roast for 60 minutes.
Remove foil, baste drumsticks with pan juices, and roast uncovered for another 25–30 minutes until the skin is crisp and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Remove from oven, dot with butter, and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

To intensify flavor, marinate the turkey drumsticks overnight in buttermilk or seasoned oil. For an extra crispy finish, broil the drumsticks for 3–4 minutes after roasting. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the drumsticks reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 90 minutes
• Category: Lunch or Dinner
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 drumstick
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 46g
• Cholesterol: 160mg

Keywords: turkey drumstick recipe, roasted turkey legs, crispy turkey drumsticks, baked turkey leg