Quick Answer
It is not necessary to remove the plastic wrap from turkey legs before cooking. The plastic wrap is heat-resistant and can go directly into the oven. The wrap will prevent the turkey legs from drying out during roasting. Once the turkey legs are finished cooking, simply unwrap and discard the plastic.
Should You Remove the Plastic Wrap?
Whole turkeys are sometimes sold wrapped in plastic wrap or netting. This helps protect the turkey during storage and transport. When it comes time to cook your turkey, you may be wondering if you need to remove the plastic first.
The answer is no. You do not need to remove the plastic wrap from a turkey or turkey parts before roasting. Here’s why:
- The plastic is oven-safe. Plastic netting and wrap designed for poultry are made from heat-resistant materials that can withstand oven temperatures.
- It prevents the turkey from drying out. The plastic seals in moisture and juices during roasting.
- It makes roasting easier. Keeping the plastic on holds the turkey legs together securely and prevents them from flopping around in the pan.
- It improves self-basting. As the turkey cooks, juices collect under the plastic, keeping the meat nicely moist and basted.
So not only is it not required to remove the plastic, it’s actually beneficial to leave it on while roasting turkey legs or a whole turkey.
How to Cook Turkey Legs in Plastic Wrap
Cooking turkey legs with the plastic wrap on is simple:
- Preheat oven to 325°F.
- Place wrapped turkey legs in a shallow roasting pan or baking dish.
- Roast for 2-3 hours, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Carefully remove the pan from the oven. Use tongs to transfer the turkey legs to a cutting board.
- Snip off and discard the plastic wrap.
- Let turkey legs rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
The plastic wrap will likely balloon up and may brown slightly during roasting, but this is normal. Simply remove it after cooking is complete.
Should You Cover Turkey Legs While Cooking?
While plastic wrap can be left on turkey legs during roasting, you may also cover them with foil:
- Covering with foil – Covering the legs with aluminum foil can help retain even more moisture as they cook. Remove foil for the last 30 minutes to crisp the skin.
- Basting – Basting the turkey legs with broth, wine, or oil several times during roasting will keep them extra juicy.
Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness, as the plastic wrap can make it hard to visually determine when turkey legs are cooked through. Cook to an internal temperature of 165°F.
Choosing and Preparing Turkey Legs
For the juiciest, most flavorful roasted turkey legs:
- Buy fresh, not frozen. The texture will be best with fresh turkey legs.
- Thaw completely if using frozen turkey legs.
- Leave plastic wrap on during thawing and roasting.
- Pat dry before seasoning. Dry skin will get crispiest.
- Rub liberally with oil or butter, then seasonings.
- Tuck wing tips under to hold everything together.
Best Seasonings for Turkey Legs
There are endless ways to flavor roasted turkey legs. Try one of these combinations:
| Seasoning Mix | Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Italian | Dried parsley, oregano, garlic powder, salt, pepper |
| Greek | Dried oregano, lemon zest, garlic, salt, pepper |
| Tex-Mex | Chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic, onion powder |
| Jerk | Jerk seasoning, allspice, thyme, garlic, onion, brown sugar |
| Cajun | Paprika, garlic, thyme, cayenne, salt, pepper |
| Barbecue | Brown sugar, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper |
Get creative with spices, herbs, citrus, honey, or sauces for unique turkey leg flavors.
Serving Juicy Roasted Turkey Legs
Turkey legs make a fantastic entree or appetizer. After roasting, serve them:
- Hot with side dishes like mashed potatoes, stuffing, and vegetables.
- Sliced or shredded for sandwiches, wraps, or salads.
- Chopped and added to soups, pasta, or rice dishes.
- Cooled and glazed with barbecue sauce for an appetizer.
- On their own as a handy protein-packed snack.
Leftover turkey holds well refrigerated for 3-4 days. Slice, dice, or shred to give new life in other dishes like sandwiches, casseroles, and soups.
Common Questions
Can you roast turkey legs from frozen?
Yes, it is safe to roast turkey legs directly from frozen. They will require a longer cooking time, so plan for about 4 hours in a 325°F oven. Thaw first for the juiciest texture.
What if my turkey legs turn out dry?
If your turkey legs end up a little dry, you can remix shredded meat with broth or gravy to rehydrate it. Smaller pieces will reheat and reabsorb moisture better.
What’s the best way to reheat turkey legs?
To reheat leftover turkey legs, slice the meat from the bones and reheat in a Dutch oven with broth, water or gravy. Bring to a simmer on the stovetop or reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot, about 30 minutes.
Can you freeze cooked turkey legs?
Yes, fully cooked turkey legs can be frozen to enjoy later. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic, foil or freezer bags. Frozen turkey legs will keep well for 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Conclusion
Plastic wrapped turkey legs can go straight into the oven, no need to remove it first. The plastic prevents the turkey from drying out during roasting. Simply discard the plastic once the turkey is fully cooked. Seasoning turkey legs amps up the flavor. Pair roasted turkey legs with classic side dishes, use them creatively in other recipes, or enjoy on their own for an easy protein option. With proper storage turkey legs will keep well refrigerated for up to 4 days, and they freeze nicely too.