Welcome to your new favorite weeknight meal! This Savory Garlic Butter Turkey Tenderloin Recipe is a culinary masterpiece that delivers incredible flavor in just 30 minutes. If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and unbelievably delicious dish that will impress everyone at the dinner table, you’ve come to the right place. This recipe features tender turkey tenderloin infused with a rich garlic butter sauce, promising a juicy and aromatic experience that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Say goodbye to bland dinners and hello to a vibrant, flavorful meal that fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
Key Ingredients for Savory Garlic Butter Turkey Tenderloin Recipe
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delectable dish:
- 1.5 lbs Turkey Tenderloin: (about 2 tenderloins), trimmed of any silver skin. This is the star, so opt for good quality.
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter: Divided; 2 tablespoons for searing and 2 tablespoons for the garlic butter sauce.
- 6 cloves Garlic: Minced; don’t skimp on the garlic as it’s key to the savory flavor.
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Rosemary: Finely chopped; fresh herbs make all the difference. Thyme or parsley can also be used.
- 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika: Adds a lovely depth and subtle smokiness.
- ½ teaspoon Onion Powder: Enhances the savory profile.
- ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper: Freshly ground for best flavor.
- ½ teaspoon Salt: Or to taste; adjust based on your preference.
- ½ cup Chicken Broth: Low sodium is preferred, to control saltiness. This creates a light pan sauce.
- 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed; brightens up the entire dish.
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley: Chopped, for garnish and a burst of freshness.
How to Make Savory Garlic Butter Turkey Tenderloin Recipe
This Savory Garlic Butter Turkey Tenderloin recipe offers an irresistibly easy, delicious, and satisfying meal perfect for any night of the week. Its simplicity lies in minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, yielding incredibly juicy turkey bursting with rich garlic butter flavor. The entire dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings when you crave something special without the fuss.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Turkey: Pat the turkey tenderloins dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving a good sear. In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub this spice mixture evenly all over the turkey tenderloins.
- Sear the Turkey: Heat 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large oven-safe skillet (cast iron works wonderfully) over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and slightly bubbling, carefully place the seasoned turkey tenderloins in the hot skillet. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until beautifully golden brown all over. This step develops incredible flavor and a slight crust.
- Add Aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and chopped rosemary. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Deglaze and Finish Cooking: Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon. This creates a flavorful pan sauce.
- Bake (Optional, for thicker tenderloins): If your turkey tenderloins are particularly thick (over 1.5 inches at their thickest point), you might want to finish them in the oven. Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 8-12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer. For thinner tenderloins, simply continue cooking on the stovetop, spooning the sauce over the turkey frequently, until cooked through.
- Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the turkey from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender and moist result. Spoon the garlic butter sauce from the skillet over the sliced turkey. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately.
Why You’ll Love This Savory Garlic Butter Turkey Tenderloin Recipe
You’ll truly adore this Savory Garlic Butter Turkey Tenderloin Recipe for so many reasons. The main highlight is undeniably the incredible fusion of tender, juicy turkey with a rich, aromatic garlic butter sauce, all achieved in under 30 minutes. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a testament to how quick cooking doesn’t mean compromising on flavor or sophistication. Imagine biting into perfectly seared turkey, each slice glistening with a fragrant, herbaceous butter that delivers a delightful punch of savory goodness.
Beyond its incredible taste, this recipe offers fantastic cost-saving benefits. Turkey tenderloin is often a more budget-friendly protein option compared to chicken breast or beef, and by making it at home, you save significantly on takeout or restaurant meals without sacrificing quality. The vibrant addition of fresh rosemary, bright lemon juice, and a hint of smoked paprika elevates simple ingredients into something truly special. If you enjoyed the ease and flavor of our One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken, you’ll find similar joy and simplicity here, with a delightful turkey-focused twist. Don’t just read about it; dive into your kitchen and prepare this masterpiece tonight! Your taste buds (and your wallet) will thank you.
What to Serve Savory Garlic Butter Turkey Tenderloin Recipe With
This versatile Savory Garlic Butter Turkey Tenderloin Recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, creating a well-rounded and delicious meal.
- Roasted Asparagus or Green Beans: The freshness and slight bitterness of these greens cut through the richness of the garlic butter perfectly. Toss them with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper and roast alongside the turkey if using the oven.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes or Cauliflower Mash: A classic pairing that soaks up all that glorious garlic butter sauce.
- Garlic Parmesan Orzo or Rice Pilaf: A light yet flavorful carb option that complements the main dish without overpowering it.
- Simple Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast.
- Crusty Bread: Essential for sopping up every last drop of the delectable pan sauce!
Top Tips for Perfecting Savory Garlic Butter Turkey Tenderloin Recipe
Achieving perfection with this Savory Garlic Butter Turkey Tenderloin Recipe is simple with these expert tips:
- Don’t Skip Patting Dry: This is perhaps the most crucial step for a beautiful sear. Excess moisture on the turkey’s surface will steam instead of sear, preventing that desirable golden-brown crust and flavor development.
- Get Your Skillet Hot: Ensure your skillet is properly heated before adding the turkey. You want a sizzle when the meat hits the pan. A hot pan locks in juices and creates a flavorful crust.
- Mind the Garlic: Garlic can burn quickly, which turns it bitter. Add it to the pan after the initial searing and only cook it for about 1 minute until fragrant. If it starts to brown too much, remove the pan from the heat briefly.
- Use Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs can work in a pinch, fresh rosemary and parsley provide a much brighter, more aromatic flavor that truly elevates the dish.
- Don’t Overcook: Turkey tenderloin is lean and can dry out if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) at its thickest part. Remove it from the heat just slightly before it reaches this temperature (around 160-162°F), as it will continue to cook a bit while resting (carryover cooking).
- Rest the Meat: After cooking, let the turkey rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and moist final product. Cutting it too soon will result in dry turkey as the juices will run out.
- Adjust Salt & Pepper to Taste: Always taste your pan sauce before serving and adjust seasonings as needed. Different brands of chicken broth vary in sodium content.
- Ingredient Substitutions:
- Herbs: Thyme or oregano can be substituted for rosemary.
- Butter: While butter is key for flavor, a mix of olive oil and butter can be used for searing if you prefer.
- Turkey Tenderloin: Chicken tenderloins or even thin-sliced chicken breasts can be used as a substitute, though cooking times will vary. Adjust the sear and cook until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
Storing and Reheating Tips
To keep your Savory Garlic Butter Turkey Tenderloin Recipe delicious even after the first meal, proper storage and reheating are key.
Storing:
Once completely cooled, transfer any leftover turkey tenderloin and the garlic butter pan sauce to an airtight container. Refrigerate promptly within two hours of cooking. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked turkey. Place the slices (and sauce if desired) in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating:
- From the Refrigerator: The best way to reheat sliced turkey tenderloin is gently. Place the turkey slices in a skillet over medium-low heat with a tablespoon or two of the reserved pan sauce or a splash of chicken broth. Cover the skillet and heat slowly until just warmed through, about 5-7 minutes. This prevents drying out the meat. You can also rewarm it in the microwave in short bursts (30-60 seconds) until hot, covering it to retain moisture.
- From the Freezer: Thaw frozen turkey tenderloin overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, reheat using the stovetop or microwave method described above. Avoid reheating from frozen to maintain optimal texture and prevent toughness.
Final Thoughts
This Savory Garlic Butter Turkey Tenderloin Recipe stands as a testament to the fact that exceptional flavor doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. It’s a dish that artfully combines simplicity with sophistication, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights, yet elegant enough for a special occasion. The tender, juicy turkey, enrobed in a rich garlic-herb butter sauce, is a truly delightful experience that promises to become a regular in your culinary rotation. We hope you embrace the ease and deliciousness this recipe brings to your table, proving that healthy, flavorful eating can be both quick and incredibly satisfying.
try also :
- Lentil and Sweet Potato Salad
- Cranberry Brie Bites
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Savory Garlic Butter Turkey Tenderloin Recipe FAQs
Q1: Can I make this recipe with chicken instead of turkey?
A: Yes! You can easily substitute chicken tenderloins or even boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Adjust cooking times accordingly; chicken breast may take slightly longer, while tenderloins might cook faster. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Q2: What if I don’t have fresh rosemary?
A: While fresh rosemary is highly recommended for its potent aroma, you can substitute 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary or 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped thyme or parsley.
Q3: Can I skip the lemon juice?
A: You can, but the lemon juice adds a crucial bright acidity that cuts through the richness of the garlic butter and elevates the overall flavor profile. A splash of white wine vinegar could be a substitute if absolutely necessary.
Q4: How do I know when the turkey is cooked through without overcooking it?
A: The most reliable way is to use an instant-read meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the tenderloin. Turkey is safely cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove it from the heat at 160-162°F, as it will continue to cook while resting.
Q5: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, assuming your chicken broth does not contain gluten. Always check ingredient labels for hidden gluten.
Q6: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
A: While best served fresh, you can season the turkey tenderloins a few hours in advance and keep them refrigerated. This can help infuse more flavor. The cooking process itself is so quick that it’s ideal to cook it just before serving.
Q7: What kind of skillet should I use?
A: An oven-safe skillet is recommended, especially for thicker tenderloins that might benefit from finishing in the oven. Cast iron or heavy-bottomed stainless steel skillets work best for achieving a good sear.
Savory Garlic Butter Turkey Tenderloin Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pat the turkey tenderloins dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub this spice mixture evenly all over the turkey tenderloins.1.5 lbs Turkey Tenderloin, 1 tsp Smoked Paprika, 0.5 tsp Onion Powder, 0.25 tsp Black Pepper, 0.5 tsp Salt
- Heat 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and slightly bubbling, place the seasoned turkey tenderloins in the hot skillet. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown.1.5 lbs Turkey Tenderloin, 4 tbsp Unsalted Butter
- Reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and chopped rosemary. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.4 tbsp Unsalted Butter, 6 cloves Garlic, 1 tbsp Fresh Rosemary
- Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon.0.5 cup Chicken Broth, 1 tbsp Lemon Juice
- If turkey tenderloins are thick, transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 8-12 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). For thinner tenderloins, continue cooking on stovetop, spooning sauce over turkey, until cooked through.1.5 lbs Turkey Tenderloin
- Once cooked, remove the turkey from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Spoon the garlic butter sauce over the sliced turkey. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately.1.5 lbs Turkey Tenderloin, 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley