Turkey tenderloin is a healthy and delicious meat option that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal. This lean cut of turkey is tender and flavorful, and it cooks quickly, making it a convenient choice for busy cooks.
In this recipe, we'll show you how to make baked turkey tenderloin that's juicy and flavorful, with a golden-brown crust. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can have a tasty turkey dinner on the table in no time!
Why This Recipe Works
Turkey tenderloin is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for maintaining muscle and staying healthy. This recipe uses a simple marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs to add flavor and moisture to the meat. Baking the turkey in the oven helps to lock in the juices and create a tender and juicy texture.
Another great thing about this recipe is that it is very versatile. You can serve the turkey tenderloin with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Plus, leftovers can be used in sandwiches or salads for an easy lunch or dinner option. So why not give this baked turkey tenderloin recipe a try and see for yourself how delicious and healthy it can be!
Ingredients
Turkey tenderloin - the star of the dish, lean and tender. Substitute: chicken breast
Olive oil - adds moisture and helps the seasoning stick. Substitute: vegetable oil or melted butter
Garlic powder - provides a savory depth of flavor. Substitute: minced fresh garlic
Italian seasoning - a blend of dried herbs that adds a delicious aroma. Substitute: a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme
Paprika - adds a touch of smokiness and color. Substitute: smoked paprika or chili powder
Tips
- Pat the turkey tenderloin dry before seasoning to ensure a better crust.
- Allow the tenderloin to rest at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before baking for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; it should read 165°F (74°C) when inserted into the thickest part.
- Tent the cooked tenderloin with foil and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing for juicier meat.
- Experiment with different seasoning blends to suit your taste preferences.
How to Serve
This Baked Turkey Tenderloin is a versatile dish that can be served with various sides to complete your meal. It's perfect for a weeknight dinner, but it's also elegant enough for special occasions.
- Serve with a side of mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a comforting meal.
- Pair with a fresh, colorful salad and some crusty bread for a lighter option.
- Create a grain bowl with quinoa or rice, roasted vegetables, and a drizzle of your favorite sauce.
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Turkey Tenderloin
Ingredients
- 2 pounds turkey tenderloin
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the turkey tenderloin dry and place it in a baking dish.
- In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over the turkey tenderloin.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a meat thermometer reads 165°F (74°C) when inserted into the thickest part.
- Remove from the oven, tent with foil, and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Nutrition
Notes
- Pat the turkey tenderloin dry before seasoning to ensure a better crust.
- Allow the tenderloin to rest at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before baking for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; it should read 165°F (74°C) when inserted into the thickest part.
- Tent the cooked tenderloin with foil and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing for juicier meat.
- Experiment with different seasoning blends to suit your taste preferences.