Reheating Smoked Turkey Legs to Perfection in a Slow Cooker

Smoked turkey legs are a delicious treat that can be enjoyed any time of year. With their iconic appearance and finger-licking smoky flavor it’s no wonder these meaty drumsticks have become a staple at fairs theme parks and backyard barbecues. But when you have leftover smoked turkey legs from a previous feast, reheating them properly is key to preserving that signature taste and texture. That’s where using a slow cooker comes in handy!

Reheating smoked turkey legs in a slow cooker allows the meat to gradually come up to temperature while infusing it with even more smoky intensity. The low, steady heat tenderizes the meat while keeping it incredibly moist and juicy. Follow this simple guide to reheat your smoked turkey legs to absolute perfection using a slow cooker.

Benefits of Using a Slow Cooker

There are several advantages to using a slow cooker rather than a microwave or oven when reheating smoked turkey legs

• Preserves moisture – The gentle heat of a slow cooker surrounds the turkey legs to warm them evenly while retaining natural juices and preventing them from drying out.

• Enhances flavor – The long cooking time allows the smoky notes to fully permeate the meat, taking the flavor to new heights.

• Makes meat tender – Slow cooking breaks down tough connective tissues in smoked turkey legs, leaving the meat fall-off-the-bone tender.

• Adds convenience – Simply throw the ingredients in the slow cooker, and hours later you’ll have piping hot smoked turkey legs ready to devour.

• Limits mess – There’s no need for closely monitoring things in the oven or constant flipping in a pan. Just set it and forget it!

Tips for Reheating Smoked Turkey Legs

Follow these handy tips to take your reheated smoked turkey legs from great to spectacular:

• If refrigerated, allow turkey legs to come to room temperature before slow cooking for more even heating.

• Cut away any hardened outer areas for more tender meat after reheating.

• Use a natural cooking liquid like turkey broth or apple cider versus plain water for added flavor.

• Resist removing the lid during cooking to allow moisture to remain inside.

• Shred leftovers to use in soups, sandwiches, casseroles, and other inventive dishes.

How to Reheat Smoked Turkey Legs Step-by-Step

Reheating smoked turkey legs in a slow cooker couldn’t be easier. Just 6 simple steps will have you sinking your teeth into tender, juicy, flavor-packed turkey legs.

Ingredients:

• 1-2 lbs smoked turkey legs
• 1⁄2 – 1 cup turkey broth, apple cider, beer, or water
• 1⁄2 onion, diced (optional)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
• 1 bay leaf (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the turkey legs: Pat off any excess moisture with paper towels. Remove any hardened outer skin or unappetizing sections for the most tender results.

2. Grease the slow cooker: Coat the insert with cooking spray or oil to prevent sticking.

3. Add cooking liquid: Pour in turkey broth, apple cider, beer, or water. The amount will depend on the size of your slow cooker. You want enough to come about 1 inch up the sides of the legs.

4. Include aromatics (optional): Add the onion, garlic, bay leaf, and any otherdesired herbs or spices. They will boost the flavor.

5. Put in legs and season: Nestle the turkey legs into the liquid mixture in a single layer, if possible. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.

6. Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours until heated through (165°F internal temperature). The meat should be very tender and easy to pull from the bone.

Serving Reheated Smoked Turkey Legs

Once your smoked turkey legs are fork-tender and piping hot, it’s time to serve! Consider these serving suggestions:

• Pair with classic barbecue sides like coleslaw, baked beans, mac and cheese or potato salad.

• Offer various dipping sauces like barbeque, honey mustard or ranch.

• Serve on soft rolls for smoked turkey leg sandwiches.

• Shred the meat and use it to top nachos, pizzas, salads or baked potatoes.

• For a complete meal, add roasted vegetables and garlic mashed potatoes.

However you choose to enjoy your reheated smoked turkey legs, the incredible flavor will have you savoring every juicy, smoky bite. So put that slow cooker to work and rediscover just how delectable leftover smoked turkey legs can be!