Crock Pot Smoked Turkey Legs

This Crock Pot Smoked Turkey Legs recipe is tender and flavorful, which uses smoked paprika and brown sugar. It’s a straightforward recipe, ready in about 6 hours and 5 minutes.

Crock Pot Smoked Turkey Legs Ingredients

• 1 cup ketchup
• ⅓ cup water
• ¼ cup brown sugar (loosely packed)
• 2 tablespoons prepared yellow mustard
• 3 tablespoons vinegar
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 6 turkey legs
• salt and pepper

How To Make Crock Pot Smoked Turkey Legs

1. Make the sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together ketchup, water, brown sugar, mustard, vinegar, and smoked paprika.
2. Season the turkey legs: Sprinkle the turkey legs with salt and pepper, then place them into the slow cooker.
3. Add the sauce and cook: Pour the prepared sauce over the turkey legs. Cover and cook on LOW for 5–6 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.
4. Optional broil for crispy skin: If desired, place the cooked legs on a baking sheet and broil for 3–5 minutes until browned and crisp.

Recipe Tips

• Can I use regular paprika instead? Yes, regular paprika works if you don’t have smoked, but you’ll miss the smoky depth.
• How do I keep turkey legs from drying out? The sauce keeps them moist, but check after 4 hours the first time you make it.
• How do I know when they’re done? Use a meat thermometer—legs should reach 165°F at the thickest part.
• Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce? Definitely. Swap in your favorite BBQ sauce to save time.
• What’s a good Thanksgiving variation? Use poultry seasoning and chicken broth instead of the BBQ-style sauce for a holiday twist.

What To Serve With Turkey Legs

These smoked turkey legs pair well with classic sides:

• Mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes
• Coleslaw or green beans
• Cornbread or dinner rolls
• Macaroni and cheese
• Roasted Brussels sprouts

How To Store Smoked Turkey Legs

Refrigerate: Store leftovers with some juices in a covered container for up to 5 days.

Reheat: Best reheated in a covered dish in a 350°F oven for 20–30 minutes. Microwave in 1–2 minute bursts if needed quickly.

Smoked Turkey Leg Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 1057
• Carbohydrates: 21g
• Protein: 133g
• Fat: 46g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Sodium: 923mg
• Sugar: 18g

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe with chicken legs?
Yes, just adjust the cook time—chicken legs may be done sooner than turkey.

Why use smoked paprika?
It adds a deep, smoky flavor that mimics grilling or smoking.

Can I skip the broiling step?
Yes, but broiling helps crisp the skin and adds great color.

Is this good for meal prep?
Absolutely—these legs reheat well and make great leftovers.

Try More Recipes:

• Crock Pot Pulled Turkey
• Crock Pot No-Bean Turkey Chili
• Crock Pot Leftover Turkey Stew