This turkey recipe works great for entertaining dinner guests, and I get the same question every time. How did you get it so tender? But it’s also a fabulous weeknight meal to please the fam. The tenderloin of the turkey works because it’s the most tender, juicy part, making it much easier to achieve a deliciously tender meal. And it’s super easy, creating a huge time saver for those hectic days when you need something fast and tasty without compromising on nutrition.
Recipe Ingredients
How to Make Turkey Tenderloin
Make the Marinade – Mix the marinade ingredients in a medium-sized bowl until fully combined: Creole seasoning, minced garlic, onion powder, sage, thyme, rosemary, salt, pepper, chili powder, olive oil, and soy sauce. (Photo 1) Marinate -Add the turkey tenderloins to the marinade and rub in the marinade, making sure the tenderloins are completely covered with marinate. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, refrigerate, and marinate the turkey for at least 4 hours or overnight. (Photos 2-3) Sear the Tenderloin – When ready to go, preheat the oven to 350℉ (175℃). While your oven is preheating, heat a cast iron skillet over medium and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Remove the tenderloins from the marinade and drain off excess marinade. Sear the turkey tenderloins in the cast iron skillet until browned, about 2 minutes. Flip and cook until browned on the other side, about 2 minutes more. (Photo 4) Bake – Place the pan in the oven and bake until the turkey is cooked through (an instant-read thermometer will register 155°F/70℃ when inserted into the thickest part), 25-30 minutes. Serve – Transfer your turkey tenderloins to a clean cutting board. Let rest for 10-15 minutes, then slice them thinly crosswise and serve.
Recipe Variations
Tips and Tricks
Make-Ahead Instructions
These turkey tenderloins are perfect to make ahead. Prepare according to the recipe, allow it to rest, then slice it ready to serve. Store the sliced turkey tenderloins in an airtight container or bag in the freezer for 2-3 months or fridge for 3-4 days. Pair with your choice of sides for an easy, ready-made dinner idea or lunch on the go.
Serving and Storage Instructions
These turkey tenderloins are extremely pairable and best served warm after resting. Whip up your favorite sides to serve along with them. You can store leftover turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Freeze cooked turkey tenderloin in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible for up to 3 months. To conserve moisture when reheating, place the sealed freezer bag (sous-vide style) in a pot of hot water, typically around 130–160°F (55–71°C), until heated through.
What to Serve With Turkey Tenderloin
This non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe loves to pair with roasted garlic mashed potatoes with giblet gravy, spicy roast garlic broccoli, and homemade coleslaw. If you’re in the mood for a light lunch, toss turkey slices over a Cobb salad. Yum!
More Amazing Turkey Recipes to Try
Roast Turkey Breast Turkey Breakfast Sausage Stuffed Turkey Legs Fried Turkey Wings Crispy Brisket Burnt Ends
Conclusion
This turkey tenderloin recipe is the best of both worlds, simple yet guaranteed to impress with its deliciousness. What are you planning to make for your Thanksgiving fiesta? Let me know; I love hearing from you!
Watch How to Make It
Watch How to Make It
