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Baked Turkey Drumsticks are a satisfying and straightforward meal that brings a cozy touch to your table. This easy recipe combines simple ingredients and seasonings for a flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.
If you like turkey recipes, you could also try my Oven Roasted Boneless Turkey Breast Recipe or Air Fryer Boneless Turkey Breast recipe a try. Any of these options would pair well with Roasted Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots and Creamy Homemade Mashed Potatoes.
Table of Contents
Why This Recipe Works
- It’s easy. The drumsticks take minimal prep time, and you can prepare the side dishes while they bake.
- Flavorful Marinade: A blend of spices and a touch of acidity tenderizes the meat and enhances the natural flavors of turkey.
- Versatile Cooking Options: Whether baked, grilled, or slow-cooked, this recipe adapts to your preferred method.
Ingredients To Make Turkey Drumsticks
- Turkey drumsticks: If you don’t see packages of turkey drumsticks at the store, ask your butcher. Since many people want turkey breasts, they are usually readily available.
- Butter: Using melted unsalted butter on the exterior helps the seasoning stick to the drumsticks and helps the skin get crispy.
- Seasonings: The turkey gets seasoned with a mixture of onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, dried rosemary, black pepper, and salt.
- Aromatics: The drumsticks are baked over a bed of red bell pepper, celery, lemon wedges, and garlic cloves for a ton of flavor.
- Chicken broth: Adding broth to the pan helps the turkey stay moist while cooking.
- Garnish: Sprinkle fresh thyme over the turkey after baking for a fresh flavor.
Ingredient Substitutions
Chicken: Use chicken drumsticks instead of turkey for a quicker meal. Decrease the cooking time accordingly.
Herbs: Add thyme or oregano to the spice mixture for a different herb profile.
Spice level: Use smoked paprika and chili flakes for extra heat.
How To Cook Turkey Drumsticks
Step 1: In a small bowl, mix together onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, rosemary, pepper, and salt. Coat the drumsticks with the spice mix.
Step 2: On a baking tray, arrange red bell peppers, celery, lemon wedges, and garlic cloves.
Step 3: Pour broth over the veggies, then place the seasoned drumsticks on top.
Step 4: Bake for 30 minutes uncovered, then cover loosely with foil and return to the oven. Cook for another 15-20 minutes until the turkey is cooked through.
Tips To Make This Recipe
- Use a Meat Thermometer: This ensures the turkey is cooked through without drying out.
- Pat Dry: Removing excess moisture from the drumsticks helps achieve crispy skin.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the drumsticks rest for 5-10 minutes to redistribute juices.
- Rotate for Even Cooking: Turn the drumsticks halfway through grilling or baking to ensure even cooking.
What to Serve with Turkey Drumsticks
These oven-roasted turkey drumsticks pair great with traditional holiday dishes, like cheesy mashed potatoes, Air Fyer Roasted Potatoes or Cheesey Green Bean Casserole. Homemade Cranberry Sauce adds a sweet and tart contrast to the savory turkey. Holiday dinners are incomplete without Homemade Dinner Rolls.
Storing and Reheating
Storing: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To reheat: Reheat in a 350 degree F oven for 10-15 minutes or microwave for 2-3 minutes.
Freezing: Freeze cooked drumsticks in a freezer safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Alternative Cooking Methods
Instant Pot: Brown the drumsticks on the SAUTE function, then add the veggies and broth. Pressure cook them on high for 25 minutes and do a quick release.
Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F and cook at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should read 165°F (74°C) when fully cooked.
Frequently Asked Questions
You could substitute vegetable broth, or water instead of the chicken broth.
Ideally, marinate for at least 30 minutes, but overnight marination yields the best flavor.
Cook until the juices run clear when pierced near the bone.
More Turkey Recipes
Turkey Drumsticks are a delicious and versatile protein option that can be cooked in various ways to suit your preference. With the tips, substitutions, and variations provided in this post, you’re equipped to make the perfect turkey drumsticks every time. Pair them with your favorite sides and sauces for a hearty, satisfying meal that’s sure to impress.
If you try this recipe or any of my other recipes, please leave a star rating in the comment section below because I love hearing from my readers. Also follow me at Cookin’ With Mima on Facebook |Instagram |Pinterest for all of my latest social posts and recipes.
Baked Turkey Drumsticks
Ingredients
- 6 whole turkey drumsticks
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup red bell pepper, cut into cubes
- 1 cup celery sticks
- 1 whole lemon, cut into wedges
- 8-10 whole garlic cloves
- ¾ cup chicken broth
- Fresh thyme, to garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Pat the turkey drumsticks dry with a kitchen towel, then massage with melted butter.
- In a small bowl, mix together onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, rosemary, black pepper, and salt.
- Evenly coat the drumsticks with the spice mix and set aside.
- On a baking tray, arrange bell peppers, celery, lemon slices, and garlic. Pour in the chicken broth and place the seasoned drumsticks on top of the veggies.
- Bake for 30 minutes, then cover the tray loosely with aluminum foil and return to the oven. Cook for another 15-20 minutes until the turkey is cooked through.
- Garnish with fresh thyme and serve.
Notes
- Use a Meat Thermometer: This ensures the turkey is cooked through without drying out.
- Pat Dry: Removing excess moisture from the drumsticks helps achieve crispy skin.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the drumsticks rest for 5-10 minutes to redistribute juices.
- Rotate for Even Cooking: Turn the drumsticks halfway through grilling or baking to ensure even cooking.
