How Many Calories Are in a Smoked Turkey Leg? A Closer Look

Smoked turkey legs are a classic fairground and theme park treat that many look forward to each year. With their tantalizing aroma and meaty texture it’s easy to devour an entire smoked turkey leg in one sitting. But before you dig in, you may wonder – just how many calories are in these giant smoked legs? Let’s take a closer look at the calorie count and nutrition facts.

Typical Serving Size of a Smoked Turkey Leg

• Smoked turkey legs served at fairs or theme parks are much larger than a regular portion

• A single smoked leg can weigh around 1 pound or 454 grams.

• This comes from a large tom turkey weighing 19-21 pounds.

• Smaller legs from an 11-13 pound hen turkey may weigh 3.5 ounces or 100 grams.

• For comparison, a 2-3 ounce portion of meat is considered a standard serving size.

Calorie Content in a Full Smoked Turkey Leg

• A whole smoked turkey leg (454g) contains a whopping 1135 calories as per CalorieKing data

• The same 100g serving size has 208 calories as per FatSecret.

• Calorie content increases if the skin is eaten compared to skinless.

• Smoked turkey legs have more calories than a roasted skinless leg due to higher fat absorption.

• A 100g skinless roasted leg has 130 calories versus 208 calories for smoked.

Macronutrients in Smoked Turkey Legs

• Protein: Smoked legs are an excellent source of protein. A 1 pound leg provides 152g of protein.

• Fat: The high calorie content comes mainly from fat. There are 54g fat in a 1 pound smoked leg.

• Carbs: Smoked turkey legs contain no carbohydrates.

Micronutrients in Smoked Turkey Legs

• Potassium – 4480mg per 1 pound serving. Vital for heart, muscle and nerve function.

• Selenium – 608mcg per 1 pound. Has antioxidant properties to protect cells.

• Niacin – 92% DV. Supports energy metabolism and nervous system.

• Vitamin K – 80% DV. Important for blood clotting.

• Thiamin – 44% DV. Helps convert food into energy.

Things to Consider About Smoked Turkey Legs

• They are high in sodium, cholesterol, and saturated fat. Eating the whole leg provides more than the daily limits.

• Sharing the leg and removing the skin can reduce calorie intake.

• Smoked legs may cause digestive issues due to high fat and sodium levels.

• They are not suitable for those monitoring fat, sodium or cholesterol intake.

• Smoked turkey legs are better enjoyed occasionally rather than regularly.

Healthier Ways to Enjoy Smoked Turkey Legs

• Stick to a 100g portion or share a large leg with others.

• Remove the skin before eating to significantly cut calories and fat.

• Pair with lower calorie sides like a green salad or grilled veggies.

• Opt for light salad dressing and skip high calorie dipping sauces.

• Drink water instead of sugary drinks to avoid excess calories.

• Balance out the indulgence by choosing lighter meals for the day.

The Bottom Line

While smoked turkey legs are a delicious carnival treat, each 1 pound leg packs over 1000 calories and 50+ grams of fat. Sticking to smaller portions, removing the skin and pairing them with lighter sides can help balance out the nutritional impact. Enjoy these smoky legs in moderation as an occasional splurge!