There’s something utterly enchanting about the thought of a beautifully stuffed turkey breast gracing your holiday table. It’s not just about nourishment; it’s about creating memories with loved ones. Picture this: as you slice into the golden-brown turkey, the delightful aroma of herbed cream cheese and sautéed mushrooms wafts through the air, inviting everyone to gather ’round.
This Creamy Herb-Stuffed Turkey Breast truly reinvents the classic holiday feast. In just 50 minutes, you’ll serve up a mouthwatering dish that boasts incredible flavor without the commitment of preparing a whole bird. It’s the perfect solution for those intimate family gatherings or small celebrations where you still want to impress.
Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that captures the heart of American cuisine and transforms your holiday cooking experience from mundane to memorable!
Why Will You Love Stuffed Turkey Breast?
Simplicity: This Stuffed Turkey Breast is an easy yet impressive dish, requiring minimal effort without sacrificing flavor.
Deliciously Creamy: The blend of cream cheese and sautéed mushrooms infuses each slice with a rich and savory taste, making it a true crowd-pleaser.
Perfect for Small Gatherings: Ideal for intimate holiday dinners, this recipe allows you to serve a stunning centerpiece without the hassle of cooking an entire turkey.
Quick Cook Time: In just 50 minutes, you can deliver a luxurious main course—perfect for busy hosts looking to create memorable meals with ease.
Versatile Filling Options: Feel free to customize the herb filling by incorporating your favorite vegetables or swapping cream cheese for Greek yogurt!
With all these winning attributes, this Stuffed Turkey Breast is sure to become a new holiday favorite in your home.
Stuffed Turkey Breast Ingredients
• Get ready to impress with this delightful blend!
For the Turkey
- Turkey Breast – 3 pounds, butterflied and pounded to ¼-inch thickness; serves as the delicious canvas for our savory stuffing.
- Unsalted Butter – 2 tablespoons; this adds richness to the sautéed vegetables that enhance the flavor profile.
- Kosher Salt – 1½ teaspoons (or more to taste); essential for amplifying the overall taste of the stuffed turkey breast.
For the Filling
- Shallot – 1 medium, finely chopped; provides a mild sweetness that deepens the flavor of the filling.
- Baby Bella Mushrooms – 8 ounces, chopped; infuses earthy goodness and moisture to the stuffing.
- Garlic – 3 cloves, minced; adds an aromatic punch that elevates every bite.
- Thyme – 1 teaspoon, finely chopped; a fragrant herb that brings freshness to the dish.
- Sage – 1 teaspoon, finely chopped; complements the turkey with its traditional flavor.
- Rosemary – 1 teaspoon, finely chopped; contributes a distinctive, woodsy aroma that pairs beautifully with turkey.
- Cream Cheese – 8 ounces, softened; binds the filling together with its creamy texture, making every slice luscious.
For the Seasoning
- Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons; ensures the dry rub adheres nicely while adding moisture to the turkey.
- Garlic Powder – 1 teaspoon; an easy way to pack in more garlic flavor without the fuss.
- Smoked Paprika – 1 teaspoon; introduces a subtle smokiness that enhances the dish’s visual appeal and taste.
- Dry Rub Seasoning – Composed of thyme, sage, rosemary, and kosher salt, 1 teaspoon each; elevates the turkey’s flavor before baking, creating a fragrant crust.
With these carefully selected ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a stunning Stuffed Turkey Breast that promises to impress at your next gathering!
How to Make Stuffed Turkey Breast
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Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). This step ensures that your stuffed turkey breast cooks evenly and achieves that beautiful golden exterior.
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Butterfly the turkey breast and pound it to about ¼-inch thickness. This process helps create a larger surface area for stuffing, making every bite flavorful.
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Melt the butter in a skillet over medium-high heat, then sauté shallots and mushrooms for 5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and herbs, cooking for 1 more minute, and let the mixture cool.
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Combine the cooled shallot and mushroom blend with softened cream cheese. Spread this mixture evenly over the turkey, leaving a ½-inch border to prevent spilling.
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Roll the turkey tightly using plastic wrap, then tie it with kitchen twine. This will keep everything secure while cooking and make for beautiful slices.
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Mix olive oil with your dry rub seasonings and apply generously to the turkey. This adds flavor and moisture, enhancing the turkey’s profile as it bakes.
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Bake the turkey for 17-20 minutes, until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). For an extra crispy layer, broil for 2 minutes at the end until golden brown.
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Rest your turkey for 10 minutes before slicing. This step is crucial to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring every slice is juicy and tender.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation before serving!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Stuffed Turkey Breast
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the turkey cool completely before sealing to maintain moisture.
Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months. This will help prevent freezer burn and keep the stuffed turkey breast fresh.
Reheating: For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, avoiding a dry texture.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed turkey breast a day in advance, refrigerating it unbaked until you’re ready to cook. This allows flavors to meld beautifully!
Stuffed Turkey Breast Variations
Feel free to explore and customize your stuffed turkey breast with these delightful variations! Let your creativity take flight and enhance the dish to match your taste buds.
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Vegetable Twist: Substitute baby bella mushrooms with spinach or kale for a fresh, vibrant filling. This adds color and a hint of earthiness that remains deliciously savory.
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Cheese Choices: Swap cream cheese for feta or goat cheese to introduce a tangy flavor that complements the herbs splendidly. This twist creates a creamy contrast that’s simply irresistible.
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Herbal Boost: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill or parsley alongside the traditional thyme and sage for an aromatic elevation. Each herb brings its unique essence, making the turkey a fragrant masterpiece.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the filling for added heat. This fiery touch pairs wonderfully with the creamy base, creating a lively flavor burst.
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Nuts & Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling mixture for a delightful texture contrast. Their crunchiness complements the creamy stuffing beautifully, providing a satisfying bite.
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Fruit Fusion: Mix in finely chopped dried cranberries or apricots for a sweet and savory blend that truly dazzles the palate. This variation adds a heartwarming, seasonal flavor that feels festive and special.
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Grain Greatness: Consider incorporating cooked quinoa or rice into your filling for added substance and nutrition. The grains create a delightful chew, enhancing the overall dining experience.
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Dairy-Free Delight: For a dairy-free version, use vegan cream cheese and skip the butter in the sauté process. This option still delivers ample creaminess while catering to various dietary preferences.
Unleash your culinary spirit and make this stuffed turkey breast your very own holiday tradition!
Make Ahead Options
These Stuffed Turkey Breasts are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can assemble the entire dish and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply follow the recipe through the rolling and tying step, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the fridge. This helps to keep the turkey moist and flavorful while allowing the herbs in the filling to infuse their essence. When you’re ready to delight your family, just remove the turkey from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then apply the olive oil dry rub and bake as instructed. You’ll enjoy a dish that’s just as delicious and hassle-free, perfect for busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Stuffed Turkey Breast?
Create a memorable meal around the delightfully creamy and savory stuffed turkey breast that your loved ones will cherish.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, these potatoes soak up the turkey’s delicious juices for a comforting side dish.
- Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet and nutty, these vibrant carrots add a pop of color and a delightful contrast to the savory turkey.
- Cranberry Sauce: A classic pairing, the tartness of cranberry sauce elevates the meal while balancing the richness of the stuffing.
- Sautéed Green Beans: Crisp and vibrant, the freshness of green beans complements the turkey’s rich flavors and adds a lovely crunch.
- Herb-Infused Rice: Light and aromatic, this fluffy side enhances the earthy notes of herbs used in the turkey’s stuffing.
- Cauliflower Gratin: Creamy and cheesy, this indulgent dish pairs well, offering a different texture alongside the turkey.
- Apple Crisp: Finish your meal with a warm apple crisp, a perfect way to highlight the season’s flavors and warm hearts.
- Sparkling White Wine: A glass of bubbly wine adds a festive touch and enhances the overall flavor experience during dining.
- Pumpkin Pie: End on a classic note with pumpkin pie, its spices harmonizing nicely with the comforting nature of the turkey.
Expert Tips for Stuffed Turkey Breast
- Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey reaches 160°F for safety. It’s essential to avoid undercooked poultry.
- Resting Period Matters: Don’t skip the resting time post-baking; it lets the juices redistribute, making every bite of your stuffed turkey breast tender and juicy.
- Sautéing Technique: Ensure the shallots and mushrooms are well sautéed to enhance their flavors; undercooking can lead to a less savory filling.
- Avoid Overstuffing: Spread the filling evenly and leave a ½-inch border to prevent it from spilling out during cooking, which can affect presentation and flavor.
- Variations Welcome: Feel free to experiment with the filling by adding seasonal vegetables or using Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese for a lighter twist.
Stuffed Turkey Breast Recipe FAQs
What type of turkey breast should I use for the best results?
Absolutely! I recommend using a fresh, high-quality turkey breast of about 3 pounds for optimal flavor and tenderness. Look for a breast that is uniform in thickness without any dark spots, which could indicate spoilage. Organic or free-range options often have a more robust flavor and moist texture.
How should I store leftovers from the Stuffed Turkey Breast?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the turkey has cooled completely before sealing it, which helps maintain moisture and flavor. If you’re planning to enjoy leftovers beyond that timeframe, consider freezing!
Can I freeze stuffed turkey breast, and if so, how?
Certainly! To freeze your Stuffed Turkey Breast, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap first, then wrap it again in aluminum foil. This double layer will help prevent freezer burn and maintain its quality. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just remember to label it with the date!
What should I do if my turkey is overcooked and dry?
If you find your turkey is overcooked, don’t fret! You can revive it by slicing the meat and adding a bit of prepared gravy or a herbed butter on top before serving. This added moisture will help elevate the flavors and improve the overall texture.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Very good question! If you’re cooking for a group, be aware of common allergies. This recipe contains dairy from the cream cheese and butter, which may be an issue for lactose-intolerant guests. As an alternative, you can use a lactose-free cream cheese or Greek yogurt. Additionally, always check that your seasonings and turkey are free of gluten if you have gluten-sensitive diners.
Can I prepare the stuffed turkey breast ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare your Stuffed Turkey Breast a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe through the rolling and seasoning steps, then refrigerate it unbaked. When you’re ready for your meal, just pop it in the oven and bake. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Savory Stuffed Turkey Breast for Effortless Holiday Feasting
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Butterfly the turkey breast and pound it to about ¼-inch thickness.
- Melt the butter in a skillet over medium-high heat, then sauté shallots and mushrooms for 5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and herbs, cooking for 1 more minute, and let the mixture cool.
- Combine the cooled shallot and mushroom blend with softened cream cheese. Spread this mixture evenly over the turkey, leaving a ½-inch border.
- Roll the turkey tightly using plastic wrap, then tie it with kitchen twine.
- Mix olive oil with your dry rub seasonings and apply generously to the turkey.
- Bake the turkey for 17-20 minutes, until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). For an extra crispy layer, broil for 2 minutes at the end until golden brown.
- Rest your turkey for 10 minutes before slicing.