This Turkey Tenderloin recipe is delicious and so much quicker than cooking a whole turkey! It’s perfect for a smaller turkey dinner.
Turkey tenderloins are a great option for a small Thanksgiving dinner, or just any weeknight that you’re craving tasty turkey because they don’t take ages to cook.
For this juicy turkey tenderloin recipe, I add some good seasoning on the outside, sear them well in a hot pan, and then cook them at a low temperature just until they’re just done. The sear helps them develop that flavorful crust and color, while the low oven lets them finish off low and slow to be more tender and juicy.
Scroll down to read more about how it all comes together or click here to jump straight down to the recipe.
Turkey tenderloin is an underrated cut of meat that is lean, delicate, and versatile When seasoned properly, turkey tenderloins transform into delicious, juicy entrees perfect for any occasion The key is knowing how to season turkey tenderloin to amplify flavor and moisture.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn foolproof techniques for preparing flavored turkey tenderloin every time.
What is Turkey Tenderloin?
Turkey tenderloin is a tender cut of meat that comes from the breast of the turkey, specifically between the turkey breasts.
Turkey tenderloins are long, cylindrical strips of white meat that are very lean and delicate. They are sometimes labeled as turkey medallions or turkey fillets.
Compared to chicken breast, turkey tenderloin has a slightly richer meatier flavor while still being just as versatile. This cut of turkey is perfect for quick weeknight dinners holiday meals, and everything in between.
Benefits of Cooking with Turkey Tenderloin
There are many benefits to cooking with turkey tenderloin rather than whole turkey or other cuts:
-
Quick cooking time – Turkey tenderloins cook much faster than a whole turkey breast or leg. They can be prepared in 30 minutes or less.
-
Versatile – Turkey tenderloins work well in a variety of dishes from pastas to sandwiches to salads. Their mild flavor absorbs any seasonings.
-
Lean and tender – With little fat, turkey tenderloins are a leaner option compared to chicken thighs. When cooked properly, they remain incredibly moist and tender.
-
Cost effective – Individual turkey tenderloin pieces cost less than buying a whole turkey breast. You can buy just what you need.
How to Choose Turkey Tenderloins
When purchasing turkey tenderloins, you’ll want to look for a few key characteristics:
-
Uniform shape – Try to pick tenderloins that have an evenly cylindrical shape which will cook evenly. Avoid oddly shaped or thin tapered pieces.
-
Size – Standard tenderloins range from 4-8 oz. Size does not affect taste, only cooking time. Larger ones need a few extra minutes.
-
Color – Opt for tenderloins that are pink to light beige. Dark spots or discoloration may indicate bruising.
-
Packaging date – For freshness, look for turkey tenderloins with a use or freeze by date at least a week away.
Buying extra tenderloins when on sale allows you to prep ahead. Simply season and freeze raw tenderloins in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
How to Season Turkey Tenderloin
Properly seasoning is key for infusing turkey tenderloin with maximum flavor. Follow these simple steps:
1. Pat the Tenderloins Dry
-
Thoroughly pat both sides of the tenderloins with paper towels until completely dry.
-
Drying the surface allows seasonings to better adhere and prevents splattering when searing.
2. Coat with Oil
-
Drizzle approximately 1-2 Tbsp of olive oil or avocado oil over tenderloins.
-
Rub the oil evenly over all surfaces to create a barrier to seal in moisture as it cooks.
3. Season the Turkey
-
Sprinkle desired seasonings liberally over both sides of oiled tenderloins.
-
Gently press seasonings into the meat so they stick.
-
Go light on salt since you can adjust after cooking.
4. Let it Marinate (Optional)
-
For extra flavor, cover seasoned tenderloins and refrigerate 15-30 minutes.
-
The salt and acid from ingredients like lemon juice or vinegar will penetrate deeper into the turkey.
-
Marinating too long can start to break down the tenderloin so keep it brief.
Flavorful Turkey Tenderloin Seasoning Ideas
One of the best parts about cooking turkey tenderloin is that it pairs well with almost any seasoning blend.
Start with 1 teaspoon of each seasoning unless otherwise noted:
Everyday Turkey Tenderloin Seasoning
- Dried oregano
- Dried thyme
- Smoked paprika
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt
- Pepper
Italian Turkey Tenderloin
- Dried basil
- Dried oregano
- Garlic powder
- Fennel seeds
- Crushed red pepper flakes
- Salt
- Pepper
Mediterranean Turkey Tenderloin
- Smoked paprika
- Dried oregano
- Cumin
- Lemon zest
- Dried mint
- Salt
- Pepper
Southwest Turkey Tenderloin
- Chili powder
- Cumin
- Smoked paprika
- Garlic powder
- Dried oregano
- Salt
- Pepper
Herbes de Provence Turkey
- Dried thyme
- Dried rosemary
- Dried oregano
- Dried basil
- Fennel seeds
- Lavender (1/4 teaspoon)
- Salt & pepper
Lemon-Herb Turkey
- Dried parsley
- Lemon zest
- Dried oregano
- Salt
- Pepper
Cooking Methods for Seasoned Turkey Tenderloin
The ideal cooking method for seasoned turkey tenderloin is quick searing followed by roasting. This yields a flavorful, caramelized exterior and juicy interior.
To sear and roast turkey tenderloin:
-
Preheat oven to 325°F.
-
Heat 1 Tbsp oil in a skillet over high heat.
-
Add tenderloins and sear 1 minute per side.
-
Transfer skillet to oven and roast 10-15 minutes until 165°F internal temperature.
-
Let rest 5 minutes before slicing.
Other cooking methods like grilling, air frying, or poaching also work well for infusing flavor.Adjust cook times and temperatures as needed.
Serving Ideas for Seasoned Turkey Tenderloin
The possibilities are endless when it comes to serving seasoned turkey tenderloin. Here are just a few serving ideas:
-
Slice turkey tenderloin and add to salads, grain bowls, pasta dishes.
-
Pair with roasted vegetables like squash, Brussels sprouts, asparagus.
-
Make sandwiches or wraps with greens, cheese, or avocado.
-
Dice or shred for turkey chili, soups, casseroles, or stir fries.
-
Cook sliced turkey tenderloins in pan sauces like mushroom, wine, or creamy garlic.
-
Stuff sliced tenderloin with cheese, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes.
Storing and Freezing Turkey Tenderloin
Properly stored, cooked turkey tenderloin lasts 3-4 days refrigerated. To extend shelf life, freeze tenderloins:
-
Cool cooked turkey completely before freezing.
-
Portion turkey into freezer bags or airtight containers with broth or sauce.
-
Freeze turkey for 2-3 months.
-
Thaw overnight in fridge before using.
With endless possibilities for seasoning and serving turkey tenderloin, this healthy and affordable cut of meat makes an easy, flavorful dinner option. Use this guide to prepare perfect turkey tenderloins anytime.
Safe Temperature For Turkey
As with all turkey, the recommended safe internal temperature is 165°F. You should take your tenderloins out of the oven when they reach 160°F. Then take them out of the skillet they’re cooking in and transfer them to a plate or cutting board. Let them rest for 10 minutes before slicing. In that time the temperature should rise the rest of the way to 165°F.
Video: Cooking Turkey Tenderloins
Turkey tenderloins are part of the turkey breast that has been trimmed off, much like chicken tenderloins. While the full turkey breast is often skin-on, bone-in, these tenderloins are boneless, skinless, and, as the name suggests, super tender. They’re sometimes called turkey medallions, turkey fillets, turkey breast loins, or turkey breast tenders.
These turkey breast tenderloins often come in a sealed plastic packaging with a solution that helps to tenderize them and add flavor. They come two per package, and once you take them out, they look A LOT like chicken breasts. It’s lean white meat with a nice flavor that doesn’t take too long to cook.
The Best Way To Make A Juicy Turkey Tenderloin
FAQ
What should you season your turkey with?
How to cook Jennie O’ turkey tenderloin in the oven?
What is the difference between turkey breast and turkey tenderloin?
Do you oil a turkey before seasoning?