How to Cook Turkey Legs in a Pressure Cooker (in 30 Minutes!)

Turkey legs are a delicious and festive dish that can be enjoyed during any time of year. But if you’re short on time, cooking them in a pressure cooker is a great way to save time without sacrificing flavor.

In this article, we’ll discuss how long to cook turkey legs in a pressure cooker, as well as some tips and tricks for getting the best results. We’ll also provide a recipe for a delicious and easy-to-make pressure cooker turkey leg dish.

So whether you’re looking for a quick and easy way to cook turkey legs or you’re simply curious about how to cook them in a pressure cooker, read on for all the information you need!

How to Cook Turkey Legs in a Pressure Cooker (in 30 Minutes!)
How to Cook Turkey Legs in a Pressure Cooker (in 30 Minutes!)
Time Weight Instructions
45 minutes 3-4 pounds Place turkey legs in the pressure cooker.
Add 1 cup of water.
Lock the lid and set the pressure cooker to high.
Cook for 45 minutes.
Let the pressure cooker release naturally for 10 minutes, then release the remaining pressure manually.
Remove the turkey legs from the pressure cooker and serve.
60 minutes 5-6 pounds Place turkey legs in the pressure cooker.
Add 1 cup of water.
Lock the lid and set the pressure cooker to high.
Cook for 60 minutes.
Let the pressure cooker release naturally for 10 minutes, then release the remaining pressure manually.
Remove the turkey legs from the pressure cooker and serve.
75 minutes 7-8 pounds Place turkey legs in the pressure cooker.
Add 1 cup of water.
Lock the lid and set the pressure cooker to high.
Cook for 75 minutes.
Let the pressure cooker release naturally for 10 minutes, then release the remaining pressure manually.
Remove the turkey legs from the pressure cooker and serve.

What is the best way to cook turkey legs in a pressure cooker?

There are a few different ways to cook turkey legs in a pressure cooker, but the most common method is to sear the legs first, then pressure cook them until they are cooked through. This method results in juicy, flavorful turkey legs that are perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal.

To sear the turkey legs, you will need to:

1. Pat the turkey legs dry with paper towels.
2. Season the turkey legs with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices.
3. Heat the oil in a large pressure cooker over medium-high heat.
4. Add the turkey legs and sear them on all sides until they are browned.
5. Remove the turkey legs from the pressure cooker and set them aside.

To pressure cook the turkey legs, you will need to

1. Add 1 cup of water to the pressure cooker.
2. Place the turkey legs in the pressure cooker.
3. Lock the lid in place and bring the pressure cooker to high pressure.
4. Cook the turkey legs for 20 minutes per pound.
5. Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then release the remaining pressure manually.
6. Remove the turkey legs from the pressure cooker and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

The total cooking time for turkey legs in a pressure cooker is about 40 minutes per pound. However, the cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the turkey legs.

How long do turkey legs take to cook in a pressure cooker?

As mentioned above, the total cooking time for turkey legs in a pressure cooker is about 40 minutes per pound. However, the cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the turkey legs.

To determine how long to cook turkey legs in a pressure cooker, you can use the following formula:

Cooking time (in minutes) = 20 minutes + (10 minutes per pound)

For example, if you are cooking a 4-pound turkey leg, the total cooking time would be 20 minutes + (10 minutes per pound) = 60 minutes.

It is important to note that the cooking time for turkey legs in a pressure cooker does not include the time it takes to sear the legs before pressure cooking them. The total cooking time for turkey legs in a pressure cooker will be about 10 minutes longer than the time it takes to sear the legs.

Here is a table that provides the estimated cooking times for turkey legs in a pressure cooker

| Weight of Turkey Leg | Cooking Time (in Minutes) |
|—|—|
| 1 pound | 20 minutes |
| 2 pounds | 40 minutes |
| 3 pounds | 60 minutes |
| 4 pounds | 80 minutes |
| 5 pounds | 100 minutes |
| 6 pounds | 120 minutes |

Cooking turkey legs in a pressure cooker is a quick and easy way to prepare a delicious and flavorful meal. The pressure cooker will help to lock in the juices and flavor of the turkey legs, resulting in a moist and tender finished product.

To sear the turkey legs before pressure cooking them, you will need to

1. Pat the turkey legs dry with paper towels.
2. Season the turkey legs with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices.
3. Heat the oil in a large pressure cooker over medium-high heat.
4. Add the turkey legs and sear them on all sides until they are browned.
5. Remove the turkey legs from the pressure cooker and set them aside.

To pressure cook the turkey legs, you will need to

1. Add 1 cup of water to the pressure cooker.
2. Place the turkey legs in the pressure cooker.
3. Lock the lid in place and bring the pressure cooker to high pressure.
4. Cook the turkey legs for 20 minutes per pound.
5. Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then release the remaining pressure manually.
6. Remove the turkey legs from the pressure cooker and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

The total cooking time for turkey legs in a pressure cooker is about 40 minutes per pound. However, the cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the turkey legs.

What are the benefits of cooking turkey legs in a pressure cooker?

There are many benefits to cooking turkey legs in a pressure cooker. Here are a few of the most notable:

Speed: A pressure cooker can cook turkey legs in a fraction of the time it would take to cook them in a traditional oven. This is because the pressure cooker traps steam inside, which helps to cook the meat quickly and evenly.

Convenience: A pressure cooker is a very convenient way to cook turkey legs. You can simply add the ingredients to the pressure cooker, set the timer, and walk away. The pressure cooker will do the rest of the work for you.

Flavor: Pressure cooking can help to lock in the flavor of turkey legs. This is because the steam helps to create a moist and flavorful environment for the meat to cook in.

Economy: Pressure cooking is a very economical way to cook turkey legs. You can cook a large number of turkey legs at once, which can save you money on food costs.

Overall, there are many benefits to cooking turkey legs in a pressure cooker. It is a quick, convenient, flavorful, and economical way to cook this delicious meat.

What are the risks of cooking turkey legs in a pressure cooker?

There are a few risks associated with cooking turkey legs in a pressure cooker. Here are a few of the most notable:

Burns: The steam that is produced by a pressure cooker can be very hot. If you are not careful, you can easily burn yourself by touching the steam or the hot contents of the pressure cooker.

Explosion: If a pressure cooker is not used properly, it can explode. This can cause serious injuries or even death. It is important to read the instructions carefully and to follow them closely when using a pressure cooker.

Undercooked meat: If a pressure cooker is not used properly, it can undercook the meat. This can lead to foodborne illness. It is important to make sure that the meat is cooked all the way through before eating it.

Overall, there are a few risks associated with cooking turkey legs in a pressure cooker. However, these risks can be minimized by following the instructions carefully and using the pressure cooker properly.

Cooking turkey legs in a pressure cooker can be a quick, convenient, and flavorful way to cook this delicious meat. However, it is important to be aware of the risks associated with using a pressure cooker and to take steps to minimize these risks.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Is The Ideal Pressure Cooking Time For Turkey Legs?

Answer: The ideal pressure cooking time for turkey legs is typically around 30 minutes. This duration ensures the meat is tender and thoroughly cooked, preserving its juiciness and flavor.

2. Do I Need To Pre-Season The Turkey Legs Before Cooking?

Answer: Yes, pre-seasoning the turkey legs enhances their flavor. Use a mix of your favorite herbs and spices, and rub them onto the legs before placing them in the pressure cooker. Allow them to marinate for at least an hour for better flavor absorption.

3. How Much Liquid Should I Add To The Pressure Cooker When Cooking Turkey Legs?

Answer: Typically, add at least 1 cup of liquid (water, broth, or a mixture of both) to the pressure cooker. This amount is sufficient to create steam for cooking while preventing the meat from drying out.

4. Can I Add Vegetables With The Turkey Legs In The Pressure Cooker?

Answer: Yes, you can add vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or onions with the turkey legs. They should be placed around the meat, not on top, to ensure even cooking. This also infuses the vegetables with the savory flavors of the turkey.

5. What Should I Do If The Turkey Legs Are Not Fully Cooked After 30 Minutes?

Answer: If the turkey legs are not fully cooked after 30 minutes, continue pressure cooking them for an additional 5-10 minutes. The exact time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the legs. Always ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Final Word

Cooking turkey legs in a pressure cooker is a quick and efficient method, ideal for achieving tender and flavorful meat in just 30 minutes. This method not only saves time but also retains the moisture and nutrients of the turkey, making it a healthier option.

Pre-seasoning the legs with your preferred herbs and spices is essential for enhancing flavor, and the addition of a minimum of one cup of liquid ensures that the meat remains juicy and delicious. Vegetables can be added for a more wholesome meal, absorbing the savory flavors from the turkey.

However, it is crucial to monitor the cooking time and adjust as necessary, especially for larger or thicker turkey legs. If the meat isn’t fully cooked after the initial 30 minutes, an additional 5-10 minutes under pressure might be needed.

Always check that the internal temperature reaches the safe mark of 165°F (74°C) to ensure the meat is thoroughly cooked. By following these simple guidelines, you can enjoy perfectly cooked turkey legs with minimal effort and time.

Author Profile

Mike Thompson
Mike Thompson
Hello, fellow turkey enthusiasts! I'm Mike Thompson, a proud resident of the picturesque state of Missouri, renowned for its thriving turkey population and favorable hunting conditions. For over a decade, I've roamed the woods, valleys, and peaks of our beautiful state, learning every nook, cranny, and secret that turkey hunting has to offer. My track record? Well, let's just say I've bagged more turkeys than there are days in November, and each hunt has added a story to my ever-growing book of experiences.

However, as much as I love the thrill of the hunt, what truly fuels my passion is the joy of sharing my knowledge with others. That's why I created this platform. This site is not just a testament to my journey but a beacon for all those who are looking to embark on their own turkey hunting adventures. Whether you're a beginner eager to get started or a seasoned pro seeking advanced tips, you'll find a wealth of information here.

From understanding turkey behavior, tracking techniques, and the best equipment to use, to the do's and don'ts of turkey hunting, this site is a comprehensive guide to all things turkey. So, strap on your boots, pick up your gear, and let's embark on a journey together into the world of turkey hunting. Welcome to my site, and happy hunting!