This Crock Pot Turkey Drumsticks recipe is tender and flavorful, which uses smoked paprika and brown sugar for a rich, barbecue-style taste. It’s a straightforward recipe, ready in about 6 hours and 5 minutes.
Crock Pot Turkey Drumsticks 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 drumsticks
- Salt and pepper
How To Make Crock Pot Turkey Drumsticks
- Mix the sauce: In a medium bowl, combine ketchup, water, brown sugar, mustard, vinegar, and smoked paprika. Stir well to blend.
- Season the drumsticks: Sprinkle turkey legs with salt and pepper, then place them in the slow cooker.
- Add the sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the turkey drumsticks, covering them evenly.
- Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on low for 5–6 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the turkey reaches 165°F.
- Optional broil for crispiness: For extra flavor and texture, transfer the cooked drumsticks to a baking sheet and broil for 3–5 minutes until browned.
Recipe Tips
- Can I use regular paprika instead of smoked?
Yes, regular paprika works in a pinch, though you’ll lose the smoky depth. - How to keep turkey legs moist in the slow cooker:
The sauce and slow cooking keep them tender, but check them at the 4-hour mark the first time to prevent overcooking. - What temperature should turkey drumsticks be?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F at the thickest point. - Can I use store-bought barbecue sauce?
Absolutely! Swap the homemade sauce for your favorite bottled BBQ sauce to save time. - How to make a Thanksgiving-style version:
Skip the BBQ sauce and use 3 tablespoons poultry seasoning and 1 cup chicken broth instead.
What To Serve With Crock Pot Turkey Drumsticks
Pair these flavorful drumsticks with simple sides for a complete meal:
- Mashed potatoes
- Coleslaw
- Cornbread
- Roasted vegetables
- Mac and cheese
How To Store Turkey Drumsticks
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in a covered container with some juices for 3–5 days.
Freeze: You can freeze cooked drumsticks with juices for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating:
- Oven: Reheat in a covered casserole dish with juices at 350°F for 20–30 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat 1–2 minutes at a time, rotating in between, until hot.
Turkey Drumsticks Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 1057kcal
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Protein: 133g
- Fat: 46g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Cholesterol: 481mg
- Sodium: 923mg
- Potassium: 1996mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 18g
- Calcium: 134mg
- Iron: 12mg
Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.
FAQs
Can I broil the turkey legs after slow cooking?
Yes, broiling for 3–5 minutes gives the skin a nice crispy finish.
How do I make a holiday version without BBQ sauce?
Use poultry seasoning and chicken broth for a savory, Thanksgiving-style twist.
Why are my turkey legs dry?
They may have cooked too long. Check at the 4-hour mark on low the first time to find the right timing for your slow cooker.
Is it okay to use frozen turkey legs?
Thaw them completely before adding to the slow cooker for safe and even cooking.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, potatoes, carrots, or onions can be added to the bottom of the slow cooker with the turkey.
Try More Recipes:
Crock Pot Turkey Drumsticks
Course: DinnerCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy6
servings5
minutes6
hours1057
kcalA simple and flavorful slow cooker turkey drumsticks recipe with BBQ-style sauce or a savory Thanksgiving twist.
Ingredients
1 cup ketchup
⅓ cup water
¼ cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons yellow mustard
3 tablespoons vinegar
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
6 turkey drumsticks
Salt and pepper
Directions
- Combine ketchup, water, brown sugar, mustard, vinegar, and paprika in a bowl.
- Season turkey drumsticks with salt and pepper, then place them in the slow cooker.
- Pour the sauce over the turkey legs.
- Cook on low for 5–6 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
- Optional: Broil drumsticks for 3–5 minutes for a crispy finish.