Turkey Tenderloin
As you step into the kitchen and unveil the magic of cooking turkey tenderloin, a delightful aroma begins to waft through the air, promising a delectable meal ahead. The juicy, tender pieces of turkey nestled in your pan glisten with a savory blend of olive oil and balsamic vinegar, their surfaces kissed by a medley of Italian herbs. This isn’t just a dish; it’s an invitation to gather ‘round the table and savor the moment. Imagine serving this Turkey Tenderloin Recipe at your next family dinner or holiday celebration, where smiles abound and plates are filled. With each bite, the tenderness and flavor will transport you to your favorite culinary memories, perhaps reminiscent of a warm Thanksgiving dinner spent with loved ones.
Table of Contents
I’ll never forget the first time I prepared turkey tenderloin for my family; they were all astonished by how juicy and flavorful it turned out! It’s truly amazing how simple ingredients can create such a delicious meal. So whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or something special to impress guests, this Turkey Tenderloin Recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. I can’t wait for you to give it a try!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: With just 5 minutes of prep and 45 minutes in the oven, you can have dinner on the table in no time!
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of balsamic vinegar, Italian seasoning, and garlic creates a mouthwatering, savory taste that captivates the senses.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: Beautifully golden-brown turkey tenderloins look impressive on any plate, making every meal feel special.
- Flexible Serving: Perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or even as a meal prep option for the week ahead.
- Diet-Friendly Options: Naturally gluten-free and low in carbs, this dish can easily accommodate various dietary needs!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1.5 lbs turkey tenderloins (2 tenderloins): These cuts are lean, tender, and cook quickly, making them perfect for weeknight meals. Choose fresh for best results.
- 2 tbsp avocado or olive oil: Either oil will add moisture and richness; avocado oil has a high smoke point, while olive oil adds a traditional Italian flavor.
- 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar (preferably thick, aged balsamic): The sweetness of aged balsamic enhances the turkey, adding depth while helping to crisp the exterior.
- 3 tsp Italian seasoning: This classic blend of herbs gives the dish a delightful flavor profile; feel free to use your favorite Italian herb mix.
- 2 tsp garlic powder: Garlic powder is a convenient way to deliver rich, savory notes; fresh minced garlic can add an even bolder flavor if you prefer.
- 1 tsp kosher coarse salt: This enhances the natural flavors of the turkey; adjust according to your taste preferences.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Freshly cracked pepper enriches the dish without overwhelming the other flavors; you can tweak this to your liking.
How to Make Turkey Tenderloin Recipe
Preheat and Prepare: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven warms up, grab a baking dish or sheet pan and lightly grease it with a splash of olive oil to prevent sticking. This step is important, as it ensures your tenderloins roast evenly and develop a lovely golden color as they cook.
Mix Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the avocado or olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. The result should be a luscious marinade that will soak into the turkey, elevating its natural juices. If you have time, let it sit for a few minutes to let the flavors meld; this will enhance the overall taste.
Coat Turkey: Place the turkey tenderloins in your prepared dish and generously pour the marinade over them. Use your hands (or a brush) to ensure each piece is well-coated, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat. This step is vital for flavor infusion, so don’t skimp on the marination here!
Roast in the Oven: Once coated, transfer the dish to the preheated oven. Roast for 35 to 45 minutes, depending on the size of your tenderloins, until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). As the turkey cooks, it will become tender and juicy, releasing delightful aromas that will have your family eagerly awaiting dinner.
Rest and Slice: After removing the turkey from the oven, let it rest for about 5–10 minutes before slicing. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it moist and flavorful. While the tenderloins rest, you can whip up some sides to pair perfectly!
Serve and Enjoy: After resting, slice the turkey into medallions and serve it warm with your favorite sides—think roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Each bite bursts with flavor and satisfies those comfort food cravings. Enjoy every moment of this savory meal with family and friends!
Storing & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the turkey cool to room temperature before placing it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. If freezing, consider slicing before storing for quicker thawing. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight or microwave for about 2–3 minutes until heated through. Note that while reheating, the tenderloin may lose some moisture, but adding a splash of broth can help refresh the flavor and juiciness.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- One common mistake is overcooking the turkey. Using a meat thermometer is key! Aim for 165°F (75°C) for juicy results.
- Let your turkey tenderloins come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking. This way, they cook more evenly.
- If you want a deeper flavor, marinate the turkey for 30 minutes to 2 hours before cooking.
- Keep an eye on the turkey during the last 10 minutes to prevent dryness; ovens can vary, and you want that perfect, tender finish.
- Consider adding lemon juice or zest to the marinade for a bright, fresh kick.
- For meal prep, try slicing and adding to salads or wraps—it’s incredibly versatile!
As you gather the ingredients and embark on this culinary journey with the Turkey Tenderloin Recipe, consider yourself in good company. This dish promises not just satisfaction, but also a fun culinary experience that brings people together. The blend of simple yet satisfying flavors offers an opportunity to make memories while enjoying delicious food. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, and dive into the flavors of this delightful dish. You’ll be so glad you did!
Recipe FAQs
Can I use chicken tenderloin instead of turkey?
Certainly! Chicken tenderloins are a fantastic substitute for turkey tenderloins. Just be sure to monitor cooking times, as chicken may take a slightly shorter time to reach the recommended internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
How can I add more flavor to this dish?
For an extra kick, consider adding Dijon mustard or fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the marinade. You can also sauté some onions and mushrooms and serve them atop the sliced turkey for an added depth of flavor!
What’s a good side dish to serve with turkey tenderloin?
Turkey tenderloin pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider classic roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a light cucumber salad. The key is balancing the rich flavors with something fresh.
Can I grill turkey tenderloin instead of baking it?
Absolutely! Grilling is a delicious way to prepare turkey tenderloin. Follow the same marinade process, then grill over medium heat for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
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📖 Recipe Card
Turkey Tenderloin
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Oven Roasting
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Turkey Tenderloin recipe delivers succulent, flavorful, and healthy bites. With easy prep and aromatic seasoning, it’s ideal for family gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs turkey tenderloins (2 tenderloins)
- 2 tbsp avocado or olive oil
- 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar (preferably thick, aged balsamic)
- 3 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp kosher coarse salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking dish with olive oil.
- In a bowl, whisk together avocado oil, balsamic vinegar, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the turkey tenderloins with the marinade and ensure they are well-covered.
- Place the marinated turkey in the oven and roast for 35 to 45 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Allow the turkey to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
For a deeper flavor, marinate the turkey for 30 minutes to 2 hours before cooking.
Monitor the turkey closely while roasting to prevent overcooking; a meat thermometer is recommended.
Serve with sides like roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, or salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
