Are Smoked Turkey Legs Already Cooked? How to Prepare Them for a Perfect Meal

This Thanksgiving, I’m sharing my favorite go-to turkey recipe, Smoked Turkey Legs. Instead of frying a whole bird in my own backyard, this easy giant turkey leg recipe comes together in my smoker.

A sweet and salty overnight brine ensures the giant turkey legs stay moist and delicious throughout the cooking process. The best part is that no one will ever complain that the smoked turkey meat is too dry!

This smoked turkey leg recipe shares a lot in common with the Disney turkey leg recipe but kicks up the flavor a few more notches with a spicy seasoning rub and a hot honey glaze that is so freakin’ delicious.

Smoked turkey legs are a delicious, juicy treat that can be the star of many meals. But a common question emerges – are smoked turkey legs purchased from the store already fully cooked and safe to eat? Or do they require more cooking before being table-ready? Let’s explore the world of smoked turkey legs and find the answers.

Smoked turkey legs have an iconic savory, smokey flavor. The smoking process infuses the meat with that mouthwatering taste we all crave. You’ve likely enjoyed these hearty drumsticks at theme parks, holiday meals, and backyard barbecues.

The unique shape and generous portion size make them an impressive centerpiece dish. They satisfy big appetites and add a rustic, hardy element to any meal.

But how exactly are these smoked legs prepared before being packaged for sale? Are they already fully cooked through the smoking process? Let’s find out.

Are Store-Bought Smoked Turkey Legs Fully Cooked?

The short answer is – yes! Pre-packaged smoked turkey legs purchased from retailers are already fully cooked during the smoking process.

They are safe to eat straight out of the package without any further cooking. The smoking cooks the meat thoroughly, reaching well over the recommended safe minimum internal temperature of 165°F

However, for the best quality and flavor, further cooking is recommended prior to serving. This allows you to reheat the turkey thoroughly and achieve the ideal hot and tender consistency.

So while smoked turkey legs are pre-cooked, taking some additional steps before eating helps maximize their delicious potential. Let’s look at the best ways to prepare store-bought smoked legs.

How to Cook Your Store-Bought Smoked Turkey Legs

Now that you know your smoked turkey legs just need reheating, you have options on how to prepare them. Here are some simple and effective methods

Oven Roasting

Preheat oven to 350°F. Place legs on a rack set in a roasting pan.
Cook for 30-45 minutes until heated through (160°F internal temperature).
For crispy skin, broil for 2-3 minutes at end.

Grill

Preheat grill to medium heat. Oil the grates lightly.
Grill legs for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally until hot and lightly charred.

Slow Cooker

Place legs in slow cooker and add 1 cup broth or water.
Cook on Low setting for 3-4 hours until heated through.

Air Fryer

Preheat air fryer to 380°F.
Cook legs for 10-15 minutes, turning halfway until hot.

Stovetop

In large skillet, add 1 cup water or broth. Simmer legs for 15-20 minutes until heated through.

No matter which method you choose, using a meat thermometer helps ensure the turkey reaches a safe 160-165°F internal temperature. And letting them rest for 5-10 minutes before serving allows the juices to redistribute for added succulence.

With these simple reheating tips, your smoked turkey legs will emerge hot, juicy, and full of flavor. Time to start cooking!

Handy Tips for Reheating Smoked Turkey Legs

As you explore reheating those tender smoked turkey legs, keep these handy tips in mind:

For added moisture, place legs in a foil pan with 1⁄2 inch of chicken broth during oven cooking. The steaming action helps prevent drying out.
Leftover smoked turkey legs keep well refrigerated for 3-4 days. Reheat them using the same methods.
For deeper smoky flavor, add a touch of liquid smoke to the reheating liquid.
Rubbing the legs with oil or butter helps enhance browning and texture during reheating.
Cut slits and push slivers of garlic into the meat for a flavor boost.
Layer legs in a slow cooker or pan rather than stacking to allow steam to circulate.
Brushing with barbecue sauce in the last 5-10 minutes gives a tasty, sticky glaze.

With these insider tips, you can reinvent those smoked turkey legs and take their flavor to new heights. Get ready for your best smoked turkey legs yet!

Creative Ways to Use Smoked Turkey Legs

You’ve mastered the basics of preparing store-bought smoked legs. Now let’s explore creative ways to incorporate them into delicious meals:

Hearty Soups and Stews

Chop and add smoked turkey meat to soups and stews for a protein punch. The smoky flavor pairs perfectly with robust ingredients.

Tacos and Burritos

For taco Tuesday with a twist, chop or shred the turkey meat and pile it on tortillas with all your favorite toppings.

Savory Salads

Slice the smoked meat and toss it in your favorite salad for a satisfying twist. The warmth pairs nicely with crisp greens.

Stacked Sandwiches

Pile turkey slices on bread or rolls with cheese, lettuce, tomato and condiments for an amazing smoked turkey sandwich.

Scrambled Breakfast

Wake up to eggs scrambled with bite-sized turkey chunks. A savory way to start your day.

Smoky Rice Bowls

Build a bowl with smoked turkey, rice or grains, roasted veggies and zesty sauces for a crave-worthy dinner.

With so many options, you’ll never get bored using smoked turkey legs in recipes. Those pre-cooked legs offer convenience, bold flavor, and versatility.

Choosing the Best Brands of Smoked Turkey Legs

When purchasing pre-cooked smoked turkey legs, quality can vary widely between brands. Here are some tips for selecting the best tasting legs:

Seek out all-natural and preservative-free options when possible for better flavor.
Check the ingredients list. Simple is better – avoid legs with excessive sodium or additives.
Look for brands that use real wood smoking rather than liquid smoke flavoring.
Read labels for cooking method – true smoked legs develop more complex flavor.
Opt for legs with the skin on for added flavor during reheating.
Inspect for plump, meaty legs vs. scrawny, dried out drumsticks.

Take time to read labels and compare options. A reputable brand using natural real-wood smoking techniques is your best bet for scrumptious ready-to-eat smoked turkey legs.

Make a Meal With Your Smoked Turkey Legs

You’ve selected some plump, juicy smoked turkey legs. Now it’s time to build a complete and tasty meal around them. Here are some meal ideas sure to please:

Thanksgiving Feast

Pair your reheated turkey legs with classic sides like mashed potatoes, stuffing, and cranberry sauce for a nostalgic Thanksgiving spread.

Game Day Menu

Serve hot turkey legs with potato salad, coleslaw, and cornbread for a winning game day lineup.

Backyard Barbecue

Fire up the grill for turkey legs, skewers, baked beans and corn on the cob – a perfect summer cookout.

Italian Night

Enjoy turkey legs with pasta in tomato sauce, caesar salad and garlic breadsticks – an Italian-inspired feast.

Southwest Fiesta

Go southwestern with legs alongside Mexican rice, black bean salad and tortilla chips. Ole!

With endless pairing possibilities, smoked turkey legs can play a starring role at dinners, parties and celebrations all year long.

Discover Endless Possibilities with Smoked Turkey Legs

Pre-cooked smoked turkey legs offer a world of convenience, flavor and versatility. While already fully cooked, taking the time to reheat them prior to eating ensures tender, juicy results.

Experiment with all kinds of reheating methods and ingredient combinations to reinvent your store-bought smoked legs. Let them shine as the star of comforting soups, tacos, salads and sandwiches. Or pair them with classic sides for unforgettable meals.

So embrace the magic of smoked turkey legs. With the proper handling and a dash of creativity, these hearty drumsticks will soon become a staple in your kitchen. Just be prepared – once you start cooking with smoked turkey legs, you may never stop!

are smoked turkey legs cooked

How to Maintain the Smoke

Remember, the smoke is a crucial element in achieving that signature smoky flavor. Therefore, if you notice the smoke diminishing, add more wood chips to maintain that consistent smoky flavor you crave.

How to Store Leftovers and Reheat

Once the turkey legs are cool, place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic or tinfoil. They will keep for 3-4 days. To reheat, the easiest way is to place them in aluminum foil over a grill and gently warm them up on the grill grates.

How to Prepare Store Bought Smoked Turkey Legs. Quick and Easy Short Cut Jerk BBQ or Any BBQ Sauce

FAQ

Does smoked turkey mean cooked?

Butterball Smoked Whole Turkeys are fully cooked and ready to eat. They can be used in recipes calling for cooked turkey without prior heating. The pink color of the meat comes from smoking and curing and is not a sign of undercooked meat.

How to heat up smoked turkey legs?

Reheating – To reheat, place in a baking dish and cover with a loosely fitted piece of foil. Place in a 350°F oven and warm for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until heated through. Turkey legs are cooked when an instant read thermometer registers to 165°F.

Is smoked turkey leg supposed to be pink?

Turkey, fresh pork, ground beef or veal can remain pink even after cooking to temperatures of 160°F. and higher. The meat of smoked turkey is always pink. To understand some of the causes of “pinking” or “pinkening” in fresh turkey, it is important to know first what gives meat its natural color.

How long does it take for a smoked turkey leg to get tender?

How Long to Smoke Turkey Legs? Smoke turkey drumsticks until the meat browns and becomes very tender – typically about three to four hours. Smoked turkey legs are done when the internal temperature registers 170 F. Be sure that your meat thermometer is not touching drumstick bones when measuring.

How long to cook smoked turkey legs?

Here’s how long to cook smoked turkey legs, depending on how you’re smoking them: Add your favorite wood chips or charcoal to a smoker, and preheat the smoker to 250 to 275 degrees F (120 to 135 degrees C). Smoke the turkey leg or legs low and slow until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F (75 degrees C).

Can you smoke turkey legs in a smoker?

Start with a simple, flavorful brine, then add the legs to your smoker for a couple of hours. They’re smoky, delicious, and meltingly tender. If you have a smoker, this is a recipe you won’t want to miss! Smoked turkey legs are an absolute joy to eat and the height of summer cooking.

Can you cook already smoked turkey legs from frozen?

Yes, you can cook already smoked turkey legs from frozen. However, they will take longer to cook than thawed turkey legs. To cook already smoked turkey legs from frozen, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the turkey legs on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil.

How do you cook smoked turkey legs in a slow cooker?

Add the smoked turkey legs to the slow cooker and coat them evenly with the mixture. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours, or until the turkey legs reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Using tongs, carefully remove the turkey legs from the slow cooker and place them on a serving dish. Serve hot and enjoy!