3 Mouthwatering Slow-Cooker Turkey Drumstick Recipes You Must Try

Welcome to the world of slow cooking, where time is your ally and the results are always comforting and delicious. 🍲 Today, we're diving deep into the savory realm of turkey drumsticks, an often overlooked but incredibly flavorful cut of meat. Whether you're cooking for a festive occasion or simply want to treat your family to something special, these slow-cooker turkey drumstick recipes will tantalize your taste buds and simplify your cooking process. Let's explore three mouthwatering recipes that promise to make your kitchen smell like a holiday feast all year round!

Honey-Glazed Slow-Cooker Turkey Drumsticks

<div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=honey-glazed-turkey-drumsticks" alt="Honey-Glazed Turkey Drumsticks" width="200"></div>

If you're in the mood for something sweet yet savory, this recipe is for you. Here's how you can whip up this succulent dish:

• Ingredients:

  • 3 large turkey drumsticks
  • 1 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh rosemary and thyme for garnish

• Instructions:

  1. Season the Drumsticks: Begin by seasoning the turkey drumsticks with salt and pepper.

  2. Create the Glaze: In a bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger to make the glaze.

  3. Layer in the Slow Cooker: Place the drumsticks in the slow cooker and pour the glaze over them, ensuring they are well coated.

  4. Cook: Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the drumsticks are tender.

  5. Final Touch: Remove the drumsticks, pour the thickened sauce over them, and garnish with rosemary and thyme before serving.

  <p class="pro-note">🍯 Note: You can thicken the sauce further by mixing in a little cornstarch with cold water and adding it to the cooker for the last 30 minutes of cooking.</p>

Herbed and Buttered Slow-Cooker Turkey Drumsticks

<div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=herbed-turkey-drumsticks" alt="Herbed Turkey Drumsticks" width="200"></div>

Herbs and butter make everything better, especially these drumsticks:

• Ingredients:

  • 3 large turkey drumsticks
  • 4 tablespoons butter, softened
  • 1 tablespoon each of chopped fresh rosemary, thyme, and sage
  • Zest and juice of one lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable stock

• Instructions:

  1. Herb Butter: Mix the softened butter with chopped herbs, lemon zest, and season with salt and pepper.

  2. Coat the Drumsticks: Rub the herb butter all over the drumsticks, including under the skin if possible.

  3. Set Up for Cooking: Place the drumsticks in the slow cooker, add the lemon juice and stock.

  4. Slow Cook: Cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.

  5. Baste: Occasionally baste the drumsticks with the cooking juices to keep them moist.

  <p class="pro-note">🌿 Note: The herbed butter not only flavors the drumsticks but also keeps them incredibly moist during the long cooking process.</p>

Spicy BBQ Slow-Cooker Turkey Drumsticks

<div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=spicy-bbq-turkey-drumsticks" alt="Spicy BBQ Turkey Drumsticks" width="200"></div>

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, this spicy BBQ recipe will delight:

• Ingredients:

  • 3 large turkey drumsticks
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (choose a spicier variety or add your own hot sauce)
  • 1/2 cup orange juice
  • 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

• Instructions:

  1. Marinate: Mix all ingredients except the drumsticks to create the marinade. Rub the marinade into the drumsticks and let them sit for at least 30 minutes.

  2. Cooking: Transfer the drumsticks with the marinade into the slow cooker.

  3. Slow Cook: Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

  4. Char: For an extra touch, remove the drumsticks from the slow cooker towards the end, place on a grill or under the broiler for a few minutes to get a charred effect.

  <p class="pro-note">🔥 Note: If you want more charring, you can reduce the sauce in a saucepan and pour it over the drumsticks after grilling.</p>

Conclusion

Whether you crave something sweet, herby, or spicy, these slow-cooker turkey drumstick recipes provide versatility and flavor in one easy cooking method. Slow cooking not only simplifies meal preparation but also ensures the turkey is tender, juicy, and infused with rich, delicious flavors. Next time you're pondering over what to cook for dinner or a family gathering, give these recipes a try. They're not just meals; they're experiences, making your kitchen the heart of a culinary journey. Enjoy the simplicity of cooking with your slow cooker and indulge in the satisfaction of serving dishes that make everyone feel at home.

<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>How long should I cook turkey drumsticks in a slow cooker?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Generally, cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-5 hours until the meat is tender and falls off the bone.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Can I prepare these recipes ahead of time?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Yes, you can marinate the drumsticks overnight in the refrigerator for even better flavor infusion. Just transfer to the slow cooker when ready to cook.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Are slow cooker turkey drumsticks suitable for freezing?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Yes, once cooled, you can freeze turkey drumsticks. They will keep well for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What sides go well with these turkey drumstick recipes?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Mashed potatoes, green beans, roasted root vegetables, or a simple salad would complement these rich flavors beautifully.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>How do I make sure the turkey stays moist when slow cooking?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Using ingredients like butter, broth, and ensuring the drumsticks are well-submerged or covered in liquid helps retain moisture.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>