Roasted Herb Butter Turkey has become a cherished tradition in my kitchen, especially around the holidays. I remember the first time I tried to roast a turkey leg on my own; it was a disaster! Dry and flavorless. But then, I discovered the magic of herb butter, and my entire approach to poultry changed. The aroma of fresh rosemary and thyme mingling with rich butter, slowly infusing into the turkey as it roasts, is simply divine. This easy ground turkey dinner brings such comfort and makes my home smell incredible. You’ll love how the skin crisps up to a beautiful golden brown while the meat stays incredibly juicy and tender. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Roasted Herb Butter Turkey

I genuinely believe this recipe will become a new favorite in your home. Here’s why I think you’ll fall in love with this incredible Roasted Herb Butter Turkey:

It delivers an incredibly flavorful herb butter turkey dish every time, with tender meat and crisp skin.
The prep time is minimal, allowing you to enjoy more time with family and less time in the kitchen.
This method ensures a juicy, succulent turkey leg that’s packed with aromatic herb flavors.
Turkey is a lean protein, making this a healthier choice compared to some other meats.
It’s surprisingly budget-friendly, especially when buying turkey legs, offering great value for a delicious meal.
My family absolutely adores this flavorful herb butter turkey dish, making it a perfect crowd-pleaser for any gathering.

Ingredients for Roasted Herb Butter Turkey

To create this incredibly delicious Roasted Herb Butter Turkey, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. I always make sure these are on hand, especially for holiday cooking or when I just want a comforting meal. The star here is the flavorful herb butter, which is surprisingly easy to whip up yourself!

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature – This is crucial for making a smooth, spreadable herb butter.
1 Tbsp. chopped fresh rosemary – Its piney, fragrant notes are perfect for poultry.
1 Tbsp. chopped fresh thyme – Thyme adds an earthy, slightly minty flavor that complements the rosemary beautifully.
2 tsp. kosher salt – Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the turkey.
1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper – For a subtle kick and aromatic depth.
4 skin-on, bone-in turkey drumsticks (10 to 12 oz. each) – These are the perfect portion size and stay wonderfully juicy. Using bone-in helps retain moisture and adds flavor.

Making homemade herb butter for turkey is simple and makes all the difference in the final taste!

How to Make Roasted Herb Butter Turkey

Making this incredible Roasted Herb Butter Turkey is simpler than you might think, and the results are always worth it. I find that following these clear steps ensures a perfectly juicy and flavorful bird every time. These holiday herb butter turkey instructions will guide you through creating a memorable meal.

Step 1: First, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This moderate temperature is key for slow-roasting the turkey legs to tender perfection. While the oven heats, grab a small bowl and combine your room temperature unsalted butter with the chopped fresh rosemary, chopped fresh thyme, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix thoroughly until you have a fragrant, well-combined herb butter.
Step 2: Pat the turkey legs thoroughly dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving that beautiful crispy skin later on. Now, generously coat each drumstick with the herb butter mixture. Don’t be shy here! I always make sure to gently rub some of the butter under the skin using my hands. This infuses the flavor deeply into the meat, promising a truly flavorful herb butter turkey dish.
Step 3: Individually wrap each buttered turkey leg in aluminum foil. This clever trick helps to lock in all that delicious moisture and ensures even cooking throughout. Place the wrapped legs on a wire rack set inside a baking sheet, or if you prefer, use a large baking dish tightly covered with foil. This setup is part of my trusted holiday herb butter turkey instructions for achieving maximum juiciness.
Step 4: Bake the wrapped turkey legs in your preheated oven until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the meat (avoiding the bone) reads 165°F (74°C). This usually takes approximately 2 hours. This slow roasting process is what guarantees incredibly tender and juicy meat, setting the stage for a perfect Roasted Herb Butter Turkey.
Step 5: Carefully remove the foil wrapping from each turkey leg, or uncover your baking dish. Now, it’s time for the magic of crisping! Set your oven broiler to high and broil the turkey legs, watching them very closely, until the skin turns wonderfully crispy and golden brown. This typically takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Keep a close eye to prevent burning!
Step 6: Once the turkey legs are beautifully browned, remove them from the oven. Allow the roasted turkey legs to rest for at least 10 minutes before you slice into them or serve. Resting is vital; it helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite of your Roasted Herb Butter Turkey is moist and bursting with flavor. Enjoy your perfectly cooked herb butter roasted turkey recipe!

Deliciously golden brown Roasted Herb Butter Turkey drumsticks on a platter, ready to serve

Pro Tips for the Best Roasted Herb Butter Turkey

Over the years, I’ve gathered a few invaluable tricks that elevate my Roasted Herb Butter Turkey from good to absolutely phenomenal. These simple tips will help you achieve that perfect, juicy result every single time.

Always use fresh herbs for the butter; their aroma and flavor are far superior to dried ones.
Don’t skip drying the turkey legs thoroughly before applying the butter; this promotes crispy skin.
Be generous when rubbing the herb butter under the skin – that’s where much of the flavor infusion happens.
Resting the turkey after cooking is non-negotiable; it ensures the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist.

What’s the secret to perfect Juicy roasted turkey with herbs?

The real secret lies in two things: the foil wrap and the resting period. Wrapping the turkey legs in foil during most of the cooking creates a steamy environment that locks in moisture. Then, letting it rest allows the juices to settle back into the meat, ensuring a truly juicy roasted turkey with herbs. These are my top tips for roasting a turkey with herbs.

Can I make Herb butter roasted turkey recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the herb butter and rub it all over the turkey legs up to 24 hours in advance. Cover them tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready to cook your herb butter roasted turkey recipe, simply pull them out of the fridge about 30 minutes before baking to take off the chill.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Simple herb butter turkey preparation?

The most common mistakes I see are not patting the turkey dry enough and overcooking. Ensure the skin is very dry for crispiness. Also, always use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking; pull it out right when it hits 165°F. This simple herb butter turkey preparation will yield perfect results.

Best Ways to Serve Roasted Herb Butter Turkey

Once you’ve mastered this incredible Roasted Herb Butter Turkey, you’ll want to know the best ways to enjoy it! I love how versatile these flavorful turkey legs are, fitting perfectly into various meal settings. Here are my favorite serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

For a classic, comforting meal, I often serve this juicy turkey alongside creamy mashed potatoes and a vibrant green vegetable like roasted asparagus or green bean casserole. The rich pan drippings from the turkey legs make an amazing gravy, which is a must-have with your potatoes. This pairing truly embodies a classic herb roasted turkey dinner.

Another fantastic option is to shred the leftover meat and use it in sandwiches or wraps. Add some cranberry sauce and a touch of mayonnaise for a delightful post-holiday lunch. For a lighter dinner, I sometimes pair the turkey with a fresh, crisp salad featuring a vinaigrette dressing. The savory notes of the Roasted Herb Butter Turkey beautifully complement the freshness of the greens.

Close-up of a perfectly roasted Herb Butter Turkey drumstick with crispy skin and herbs

Nutrition Facts for Roasted Herb Butter Turkey

I know many of you care about what you’re eating, so I’ve put together the nutritional breakdown for this delicious Roasted Herb Butter Turkey. Each serving is based on one turkey leg, offering a hearty and satisfying meal.

Serving Size: 1 turkey leg (approx. 10-12 oz)
Calories: 450
Protein: 39g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 0g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 0.3g
Sodium: 600mg
Cholesterol: 140mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, such as the exact size of your turkey legs or the brand of butter. This Roasted Herb Butter Turkey provides a great source of protein!

How to Store and Reheat Roasted Herb Butter Turkey

I often find myself with delicious leftovers after making this Roasted Herb Butter Turkey, and proper storage is key to enjoying them later. First, allow any leftover turkey legs to cool completely at room temperature for no more than two hours. This prevents bacteria growth and maintains quality.

For refrigeration, place the cooled turkey in an airtight container. It will stay fresh and flavorful in the fridge for 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze your Roasted Herb Butter Turkey. I like to wrap individual legs tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw frozen turkey overnight in the refrigerator. To reheat, I recommend placing the turkey legs in an oven-safe dish with a splash of broth or water, covering it with foil, and baking at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. This method helps maintain moisture. You can also briefly microwave for a quicker reheat, but be careful not to overcook and dry out your delicious Roasted Herb Butter Turkey.

Frequently Asked Questions About Roasted Herb Butter Turkey

Can I use a whole turkey instead of just legs for this recipe?

Absolutely! This herb butter recipe works wonderfully for a whole turkey too. The process for how to make herb butter turkey remains similar: prepare the herb butter, rub it generously under and over the skin, and then follow standard roasting times for a whole bird, adjusting for its weight. Just be sure to use a meat thermometer in the thickest part of the thigh to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).

What are the best herbs for the butter?

For this Roasted Herb Butter Turkey, I find that fresh rosemary and thyme are truly the stars. Their earthy and aromatic notes perfectly complement the turkey. However, you can also experiment with other fresh herbs like sage, marjoram, or even a touch of finely chopped parsley for a slightly different flavor profile. The key to how to make herb butter turkey incredibly flavorful is using fresh, vibrant herbs.

Do I need to brine the turkey legs before using the herb butter?

While brining can certainly add extra moisture and flavor, it’s not strictly necessary for this particular Roasted Herb Butter Turkey recipe. The method of wrapping the legs in foil and slow-roasting, combined with the rich herb butter, already ensures incredibly juicy and tender results. If you do choose to brine, make sure to pat the turkey legs very dry before applying the herb butter for the best skin crisping.

How can I get extra crispy skin on my Roasted Herb Butter Turkey?

To achieve that coveted extra crispy skin on your Roasted Herb Butter Turkey, ensure the turkey legs are very dry before applying the butter. Once they’ve reached the internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and you’ve removed the foil, increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) or use the broiler. Watch it carefully during this stage, as skin can burn quickly. A final quick blast of high heat will render the fat and crisp up the skin beautifully.

Variations of Roasted Herb Butter Turkey You Can Try

I absolutely love this Roasted Herb Butter Turkey recipe as is, but sometimes it’s fun to experiment! Don’t be afraid to get creative in the kitchen with these variations. Each one offers a unique twist while still delivering a delicious, easy herb butter turkey recipe.

Lemon-Garlic Herb Butter: For a zesty kick, add 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon zest and 2 cloves of minced garlic to your herb butter mixture. This brightens the flavor profile beautifully and pairs wonderfully with the rosemary and thyme.
Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a little heat, mix in 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the herb butter. It adds a subtle warmth that complements the rich turkey without overpowering the herbs, making for a surprisingly easy herb butter turkey recipe with a bit of a zing.
Different Cuts of Turkey: While I’ve focused on drumsticks, this versatile herb butter works fantastic on turkey thighs or even a small turkey breast. Adjust cooking times accordingly, always ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Smoked Paprika Infusion: For a deeper, smoky flavor, add 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika to your herb butter. It gives the skin a beautiful color and a rich, earthy aroma.

Roasted Herb Butter Turkey: 1 Amazing, Juicy Secret

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Author: Margaret
Total Time: 2 hrs 20 mins
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

This Roasted Turkey Leg recipe features succulent, bone-in turkey drumsticks seasoned with a fragrant blend of fresh rosemary, thyme, and butter. The turkey legs are slow-roasted in the oven wrapped in foil to lock in moisture and then finished under the broiler for a crispy golden skin. Perfectly tender and flavorful, this recipe is ideal for a comforting dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature
1 Tbsp. chopped fresh rosemary
1 Tbsp. chopped fresh thyme
2 tsp. kosher salt
1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
4 skin-on, bone-in turkey drumsticks (10 to 12 oz. each)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a small bowl, thoroughly combine the room temperature unsalted butter with chopped fresh rosemary, chopped fresh thyme, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper to create a flavorful herb butter.
Pat the turkey legs dry with paper towels. Generously coat each drumstick with the herb butter mixture, making sure to rub some of the butter under the skin using your hands to infuse flavor deeply into the meat.
Wrap each buttered turkey leg individually in aluminum foil. Place the wrapped legs on a wire rack set inside a baking sheet, or alternatively use a large baking dish tightly covered with foil. This setup helps to retain moisture and promotes even cooking.
Bake the wrapped turkey legs in the preheated oven until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165°F (74°C), approximately 2 hours. This slow roasting ensures tender and juicy meat.
Remove the foil wrapping from each turkey leg (or uncover the baking dish). Set your oven broiler to high and broil the turkey legs, watching carefully, until the skin turns crispy and golden, about 8 to 10 minutes.
Allow the roasted turkey legs to rest for at least 10 minutes before serving. Resting helps the juices redistribute, ensuring moist and flavorful meat.

Notes

Make sure the turkey legs are fully thawed before cooking.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F.
If you prefer extra crispy skin, you can broil for a few minutes longer but watch carefully to avoid burning.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American