Cooking the Perfect Turkey Tenderloin Every Time

Carly Brasseux // May 8

Turkey tenderloin is a lean, boneless cut of meat that comes from the breast of the turkey. It is an excellent source of lean protein and contains little fat. When cooked properly, it can be extremely flavorful and juicy. You need to consider factors such as size, fat content, marbling, and texture when choosing a turkey tenderloin if you're at the grocery store or butcher shop. For us turkey hunters – we get the perfect cut every time!

turkey tenderloin

Delicious Recipes for Cooking Turkey Tenderloins

Turkey tenderloins are a great way to enjoy the deliciousness of turkey without spending a lot of time in the kitchen. They are also incredibly versatile and can be cooked in a variety of ways. Here, we will look at a few delicious recipes that will make your mealtime preparation easier and more enjoyable. These recipes will make sure you don’t run out of ideas for your next dinner party. So, get ready to enjoy some amazing flavors with these easy-to-follow recipes!

Herb-Roasted Turkey Tenderloin

This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. Simply season the turkey tenderloin with herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage, and roast in the oven until cooked through. Serve with roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Grilled Turkey Tenderloin

For a summertime twist, try grilling it! Marinate the turkey in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for at least an hour before grilling. Serve with a fresh salad or grilled vegetables.

Slow Cooker Turkey Tenderloin

If you're looking for a hands-off approach to cooking, try using a slow cooker. Season the turkey with your favorite spices and herbs, and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Serve with mashed potatoes and gravy for a comforting meal. Tip: Add sour cream and cheese to those mashed potatoes!

Honey Mustard Glazed Turkey Tenderloin

For a sweet and tangy twist on turkey tenderloin, try this honey mustard glaze. Mix together honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar, and brush over the turkey before roasting. Serve with roasted sweet potatoes and green beans.

Stuffed Turkey Tenderloin

For a fancier presentation, try stuffing the turkey tenderloin with a mixture of breadcrumbs, herbs, and cheese. Roll the turkey up and tie it with kitchen twine before roasting. Serve with a side of roasted Brussels sprouts or asparagus.

Turkey Tenderloin Stir Fry

For a quick and easy weeknight dinner, try making a stir fry. Slice the turkey into thin strips and stir fry with your favorite vegetables and a sauce made from soy sauce, honey, and ginger. Serve over rice or noodles.

Turkey Tenderloin Salad

For a lighter option, try making a salad. Grill or roast the turkey and slice it into thin strips. Toss with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, avocado, and a simple vinaigrette made from olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

Health Benefits of Turkey Tenderloin

Not only is turkey tenderloin delicious, but it also has a number of health benefits. It is a great source of protein, containing about 24 grams per 3-ounce serving. This is especially important for those who follow a high-protein diet or are looking to build muscle.

Additionally, turkey tenderloin is a low-fat option compared to other meats like beef and pork. It contains only about 1 gram of saturated fat per serving and is a good source of vitamins and minerals like niacin, phosphorus, and vitamin B6.

Additional Recipes for Turkey Tenderloin

One of my go-to recipes for turkey tenderloin is to roast it in the oven. To prepare, I season the tenderloin with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices. Then, I roast it at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 30-40 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Another great way to prepare turkey tenderloin is to grill it. I like to marinate the tenderloin in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs before grilling it. This adds a ton of flavor and helps to keep the meat moist.

Other Cooking Methods for Turkey Tenderloin

While roasting and grilling are both great options for cooking turkey tenderloin, there are a number of other methods to consider as well.

Pan-searing is a quick and easy way to cook turkey tenderloin. Simply heat a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the tenderloin for about 3-4 minutes per side or until it is cooked through.

Broiling is another option that is similar to grilling. To broil turkey tenderloin, place it on a broiler pan and broil it on high for about 5-7 minutes per side or until it is cooked through.

Poaching is a low-fat cooking method that involves simmering the tenderloin in liquid, such as chicken broth or white wine, until it is cooked through. This is a great option for those who are looking for a healthy cooking method.

How long to cook a turkey tenderloin in the oven?

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Place the turkey tenderloin in a baking dish and season with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

What temp should turkey tenderloin be cooked to?

Turkey tenderloin should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is safe to eat. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of the tenderloin.

How do you know when turkey breast tenderloin is cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when fully cooked. Cooking times will vary depending on the size and thickness of the tenderloin, but a general guideline is to cook at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes.

Is turkey tenderloin the same as turkey breast?

While both cuts come from the breast of the turkey, they are not the same. Turkey breast is the whole breast, while turkey tenderloin is a smaller, boneless cut that comes from the breast. Tenderloins are typically more tender and cook faster than a whole turkey breast.

How many people will a turkey tenderloin feed?

A typical turkey tenderloin weighs around 1 pound and can feed 2-3 people. However, if you are serving a crowd, you may want to plan for 1 tenderloin per 4-5 people.

About the Author

Carly Brasseux

Carly Brasseux is a determined and passionate freelance outdoor writer, published author, business owner and social media/marketing consultant based in Texas. In a world where women are the fastest growing segment of the hunting population, she is a major proponent of those women wanting to learn more about the outdoors and hunting. Her handle, Miss Pursuit, is an expression of her enthusiasm for all things outdoors, from educating women through her experiences learning to hunt over the last decade, to getting out with her kids to explore the wild. Her expertise in social media and marketing, as well as her vast network of people in the outdoor industry, have given her the influence to make an impact for years to come. Member of the Mule Deer Foundation, Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, Stewards of the Wild and the Texas Wildlife Association.