How Long to Bake a Turkey Tenderloin for a Juicy and Flavorful Meal

Turkey tenderloin is an underrated and delicious cut of meat that can be prepared so easily for a quick weeknight meal or even as an impressive holiday entree But to get the best results when baking turkey tenderloin, it’s important to know exactly how long to cook it Follow this guide for tips on cook times and doneness so your turkey tenderloin is perfectly juicy and flavorful every time.

What is Turkey Tenderloin?

Turkey tenderloin, also sometimes called turkey medallions or turkey fillets, are cuts of meat from the pectoral muscle of the turkey breast. Turkey tenderloins are long, thin pieces of meat that look similar to chicken breasts, but are much more tender and moist.

The tenderloin is the most tender part of the turkey because this muscle doesn’t get much use. With less connective tissue than other cuts like the leg or thigh, turkey tenderloins cook up incredibly moist and juicy. Their shape also allows seasonings and marinades to penetrate the meat for maximum flavor.

Benefits of Cooking with Turkey Tenderloin

There are many advantages to choosing turkey tenderloin over other turkey cuts:

• Quick cooking time – Turkey tenderloins can be cooked in less than 30 minutes since they are so lean and tender This makes them perfect for weeknight meals

• Naturally lean and low fat – With minimal marbling, turkey tenderloin is a healthy protein option that’s low in fat and calories.

• Versatile – You can prepare turkey tenderloins similarly to chicken breasts. They work well in sandwiches, pastas, salads, and more.

• Budget-friendly – Turkey tenderloins are an affordable alternative to expensive cuts like turkey breast.

• Tender and juicy – When cooked properly, turkey tenderloins are incredibly moist and tender. Their flavor and texture make them a crowd-pleasing option.

How to Prepare Turkey Tenderloin

Proper preparation helps ensure that your turkey tenderloin stays as moist as possible when cooking. Here are some tips:

• Pat dry – Gently pat the tenderloins with paper towels to remove any excess moisture from the surface. This helps them brown better.

• Season well – Turkey can benefit from bold, aromatic seasonings. Try a simple blend of rosemary, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper. Or make a zesty marinade.

• Don’t overhandle – Avoid dense, compact meat by handling the tenderloins gently before cooking.

• Bring to room temperature – Meat cooks more evenly when it’s not ice cold. Take tenderloins out of the fridge about 15 minutes before cooking.

How Long to Bake Turkey Tenderloin

The most foolproof way to ensure perfect doneness for turkey tenderloin is to use a digital meat thermometer. But if you want a general timeframe, here are some baking guidelines:

• At 400°F – Bake for 18-25 minutes
• At 375°F – Bake for 25-35 minutes
• At 350°F – Bake for 30-40 minutes

These roast times are for 1-1.5 lb turkey tenderloins. Thinner tenderloins may cook faster while thicker fillets can take up to 10 minutes longer.

Always rely on an instant-read thermometer for the best gauge of doneness. Turkey tenderloins are fully cooked and safe to eat once the thickest part of the meat reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

If using a marinade or brine, that can extend the cooking time slightly since the meat will have more moisture. Also, if you stuff the tenderloin, it will require more baking time.

Tips for Maximizing Juiciness

It’s easy to dry out lean cuts of meat like turkey tenderloin when baking. Follow these suggestions to keep your turkey tenderloin incredibly moist and flavorful:

• Sear first – Browning the exterior over high heat first helps lock in juices.

• Bake at moderate temp – Cook at 350-375°F rather than 425°F+ to prevent overcooking.

• Brush with oil or butter – Coating the tenderloins helps keep moisture from escaping.

• Use a meat thermometer – This prevents accidentally overbaking.

• Let rest before slicing – Allowing the turkey to rest for 5-10 minutes allows juices to redistribute.

Cooking Methods for Turkey Tenderloin

In addition to baking, there are several other great options for cooking tender, juicy turkey tenderloins:

• Pan searing – Cook over medium-high heat for 2-4 minutes per side depending on thickness.

• Grilling – Grill over direct medium heat for 6-10 minutes total, flipping halfway.

• Broiling – Great way to get crispy, caramelized exterior. Broil 4-6 inches from heat for 12-18 minutes.

• Air frying – Cook at 370°F for 15-22 minutes, turning halfway through.

• Poaching – Gently simmer in broth or wine until 165°F for ultra moist meat.

• Slow roasting – Cook at 275°F for 45-60 minutes for very tender results.

How to Tell When Turkey Tenderloin is Done

Using multiple indicators will give you the best sense of when your turkey tenderloin is fully and safely cooked:

• Temperature – Use an instant thermometer to check for 165°F in thickest part.

• Color – Fully cooked turkey will be opaque all the way through with no pink spots.

• Juices – If you make a small cut, clear juices rather than pink liquid should run out.

• Texture – Turkey tenderloin should feel firm yet tender when poked.

Checking with multiple signs of doneness provides the most accurate way to prevent undercooked poultry. If in doubt, it’s always safer to bake a little longer.

Serving and Storing Leftover Turkey Tenderloin

• After cooking, tent turkey tenderloin loosely with foil and allow to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing thinly across the grain.

• Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours of cooking. Store in a sealed container for 3-4 days.

• Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Microwaving works too.

• For longer storage, slice turkey, freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for 1-3 months.

Delicious Turkey Tenderloin Recipes to Try

• Roasted Herb and Garlic Turkey Tenderloin

• Baked Turkey Tenderloin with Gravy

• Citrus Glazed Turkey Tenderloin

• Pesto Stuffed Turkey Tenderloins

• Chili Lime Turkey Tenderloin

• Turkey Tenderloin Salad with Cranberries, Feta and Spinach

With the right cook time, turkey tenderloin is incredibly juicy, tender and packed with flavor. Follow these tips on how long to bake turkey tenderloin and let a meat thermometer be your guide for perfect results every time.