Elegant Stuffed Turkey Breast: Your Ultimate Holiday Main Dish

Searching for a show-stopping centerpiece for your next holiday feast or special occasion? Look no further than this incredibly elegant, yet surprisingly simple, Stuffed Turkey Breast. This recipe transforms a tender, juicy turkey breast into a culinary masterpiece, rolled around a rich and savory herb stuffing generously loaded with tart cranberries and crunchy pecans. The result? A beautiful spiral of flavor and texture that will impress every guest, making them believe it came straight from a gourmet restaurant. Best of all, this impressive main dish is ready in just over an hour, offering a delicious alternative to a whole bird without compromising on flavor or presentation.

When it comes to turkey tenderloin recipes that truly make an impact while remaining practical for home cooks, this one is a must-bookmark. The boneless turkey breast is butterflied and then rolled, creating a stunning spiral that perfectly encases all that flavorful stuffing. This rolling technique isn’t just for aesthetics; it also helps to lock in moisture, ensuring every slice of turkey is incredibly tender and juicy as it bakes. Unlike the lengthy process of roasting a whole turkey, this method significantly cuts down on cooking time, allowing you to present a golden, flavorful centerpiece on your table in approximately an hour. Plus, any delightful leftovers can be transformed into incredible sandwiches the following day, making it a gift that keeps on giving!

Why We Love This Stuffed Turkey Breast Recipe

• Perfect Portion Control without Waste: This particular stuffed turkey breast recipe is designed to serve approximately 10-12 people, making it an excellent choice for smaller, more intimate gatherings or families who don’t require an entire large turkey. It’s the ideal, right-sized option for your Thanksgiving dinner menu with just immediate family, a cozy Christmas meal, or even a sophisticated Sunday dinner. Say goodbye to excessive leftovers and hello to perfectly managed portions.
• Customizable to Your Taste Preferences: While our signature recipe features the classic pairing of sweet-tart cranberries and earthy pecans, the beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. The savory herb stuffing acts as a wonderfully adaptable canvas for your culinary creativity. Feel free to swap in your favorite mix-ins like crisp diced apples, crunchy walnuts, hearty sausage, or even a vibrant combination of fresh spinach and creamy cheese. You can easily adjust the seasonings and ingredients to align with your family’s unique traditions or specific dietary needs, making it a truly personalized dish.
• Looks Fancy But Requires Minimal Skills: Don’t let the elegant appearance intimidate you! Even if you’re new to cooking poultry, the process of butterflying and rolling this turkey breast is surprisingly straightforward and forgiving. The technique is simple to master, and once rolled, the kitchen twine securely holds everything in place, eliminating any worry about the stuffing spilling out during baking. When sliced, the gorgeous spiral pattern of the tender turkey and flavorful stuffing is revealed, guaranteed to elicit “oohs” and “aahs” from your dining companions. It’s an easy way to achieve a high-end presentation without the stress.

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

• Boneless Turkey Breast: Opting for a boneless turkey breast makes the process of butterflying, stuffing, and rolling significantly easier and less messy. When selecting, try to find a breast that is relatively even in thickness to ensure uniform cooking. If a bone-in breast is all you can find, don’t hesitate to ask your butcher to debone it for you, saving you time and effort. This is the foundation of our magnificent stuffed turkey breast.
• Stove Top Turkey Stuffing Mix: This recipe leverages the convenience of a boxed stuffing mix, specifically turkey flavor for maximum compatibility. If turkey-flavored mix isn’t readily available, an herb or cornbread stuffing mix works beautifully as well. For those who prefer a completely homemade approach, you can easily prepare your own stuffing from scratch using cubed day-old bread, a medley of fresh or dried herbs, and flavorful broth.
• Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth is recommended, as it allows you to precisely control the overall salt content of your dish. In a pinch, turkey broth, vegetable broth, or even water can be used, though broth will always contribute a richer, more complex flavor to your stuffing.
• Unsalted Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred for the same reason as low-sodium broth – it gives you full command over the seasoning. If salted butter is all you have, simply reduce the amount of additional salt you add to your stuffing. For a dairy-free alternative, olive oil or a high-quality vegan butter substitute will work perfectly.
• Dried Cranberries: These add a wonderful burst of tart sweetness that complements the savory turkey and nutty pecans. If dried cranberries aren’t your preference, feel free to substitute with an equal amount of chopped dried cherries, golden raisins, or even finely diced dried apricots for a similar fruity tang.
• Chopped Pecans: Pecans are fantastic for providing a delightful nutty flavor and a satisfying textural crunch in every bite of the stuffing. For equally delicious results, you can use walnuts, slivered almonds, or chopped hazelnuts. To intensify their flavor, consider lightly toasting the nuts in a dry skillet before adding them to the stuffing. For a nut-free version, simply omit them or substitute with roasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds if allergies are a concern.
• Poultry Seasoning: This essential spice blend typically contains a harmonious mix of herbs like sage, thyme, rosemary, and marjoram, all of which are classic companions to turkey. You can easily create your own blend by mixing equal parts dried sage, thyme, marjoram, and a pinch of ground rosemary. If using fresh herbs, aim for about 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh herbs in place of the dried seasoning.
• Garlic Powder: For a more robust garlic flavor, consider sautéing 1-2 cloves of fresh minced garlic in the butter before adding the broth to the stuffing mixture. Garlic powder offers convenience and a consistent flavor profile.
• Kosher Salt and Black Pepper: These are fundamental for seasoning the turkey both inside and out, enhancing all the other flavors. If you’re using finer table salt, remember to use approximately half the amount, as it is more concentrated than coarse kosher salt. Freshly ground black pepper always provides the best aroma and taste.
• Olive Oil: A light brushing of olive oil over the rolled turkey breast helps achieve that beautiful, golden-brown, crispy skin-like exterior during roasting. You can also substitute with melted butter or a neutral oil like avocado oil if preferred.

Recipe Variations for Your Stuffed Turkey Breast

• Savory Sausage and Herb Stuffing: Elevate your stuffing by browning ½ pound of ground sausage (pork, turkey, or chicken sausage work well) with diced onions and celery until tender. Drain any excess fat, then mix this savory sausage blend into your prepared stuffing. Lay your butterflied turkey breast (skin-side down if applicable), spread the enriched filling evenly, and roll as directed. For an extra layer of richness and a creamier texture, stir a few spoonfuls of softened cream cheese into the stuffing before rolling. This variation adds a robust, meaty depth perfect for a hearty holiday meal.
• Bacon-Wrapped Turkey Breast: For an undeniably decadent and flavorful twist, consider wrapping your stuffed turkey breast in bacon. After laying your butterflied turkey breast, adding the stuffing, and rolling and tying it securely, arrange strips of bacon across the top, tucking the ends neatly underneath the roll. As the turkey roasts, the bacon will crisp up beautifully, rendering its fat to baste the turkey, keeping it incredibly juicy and infusing the entire dish with a wonderful smoky flavor. This option also negates the need for a crispy skin, as the bacon provides all the texture you need.
• Spinach, Mushroom, and Cheese Filling: For a delicious vegetarian-friendly (or simply extra flavorful) twist, create a luscious spinach, mushroom, and cheese filling. Sauté finely chopped mushrooms, fresh spinach, and onions in butter until all the moisture has evaporated and the vegetables are tender. Mix this savory vegetable medley into your prepared stuffing, then stir in a generous amount of shredded cheese (like mozzarella, Gruyere, or a blend) and a beaten egg to help bind everything together. Spread this rich filling over your butterflied turkey breast, roll it tightly, and bake. The melted cheese creates pockets of irresistible gooeyness in every slice, adding a delightful creaminess.

Equipment Used in this Recipe

Having the right tools can make all the difference in preparing this impressive stuffed turkey breast with ease and precision:

• Meat Mallet or Heavy Skillet: Essential for pounding the turkey breast to an even thickness, ensuring it cooks uniformly and rolls smoothly.
• Medium Saucepan: Used for preparing the flavorful stuffing mixture, bringing the broth and butter to a boil.
• Baking Sheet or Roasting Pan with Rack: A rimmed baking sheet prevents any spills, and a roasting rack ensures even heat circulation around the turkey for consistent cooking and browning.
• Kitchen Twine or Butcher Twine: Crucial for securely tying the rolled turkey breast, keeping the stuffing tucked inside and maintaining its beautiful shape during baking.
• Basting Brush: For evenly coating the turkey with olive oil before roasting, contributing to a golden and appealing exterior.
• Kitchen Thermometer or Instant-Read Thermometer: The most reliable way to ensure your turkey is perfectly cooked and safe to eat, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Serrated or Carving Knife: For clean, even slices that beautifully display the spiral of turkey and stuffing after it has rested.
• Cutting Board: A sturdy surface for prepping the turkey and assembling the roll.
• Plastic Wrap: Used to cover the turkey breast while pounding it flat, preventing mess and making cleanup easier.

How to Make Stuffed Turkey Breast

Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a magnificent Stuffed Turkey Breast that will be the highlight of your meal:

1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Set it aside for later.
2. Start the Stuffing Base: In a medium saucepan, combine 1 ½ cups of chicken broth and 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, stir in ½ teaspoon of poultry seasoning and ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. Finish the Stuffing: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the entire 6-ounce box of Stove Top Turkey Stuffing Mix. Mix until thoroughly combined, then immediately cover the saucepan with a lid and let it sit undisturbed for 5 minutes. This allows the stuffing to absorb the liquid and flavors.
4. Add Flavorful Mix-ins: After 5 minutes, uncover the stuffing and fluff it gently with a fork. Stir in ½ cup of dried cranberries and ½ cup of finely chopped pecans. Give it another good stir to ensure the mix-ins are evenly distributed. Allow the stuffing to cool slightly while you prepare the turkey breast.

5. Butterfly the Turkey Breast: Place the 2.5 pounds boneless turkey breast on a clean cutting board. Carefully remove any skin from the breast. Using a sharp knife, make a horizontal slice through the thickest part of the breast, cutting about ½ to 1 inch from the opposite edge. This will allow you to open it up like a book, creating a large, flat surface.
6. Pound to Even Thickness: Cover the butterflied turkey breast with a piece of plastic wrap. Gently, but firmly, pound it with a meat mallet (or the flat side of a heavy skillet) until it reaches an even thickness of about ½ to 1 inch all the way across. This step is crucial for even cooking and easier rolling.
7. Season and Stuff the Turkey: Remove the plastic wrap. Generously season both sides of the flattened turkey breast with coarse kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Spread the slightly cooled stuffing mixture evenly over the inside surface of the turkey, making sure to leave a 1-inch border around all the edges. Gently press the stuffing so it adheres well to the turkey.

8. Roll and Tie the Turkey: Starting from one of the shorter ends, carefully roll up the turkey breast tightly, much like you would a jelly roll. Ensure the stuffing remains tucked securely inside as you roll. Once rolled, use kitchen twine or butcher twine to tie the turkey roll securely every 1.5 to 2 inches. This will help maintain its shape and keep the stuffing from escaping during baking. (Optional: You can also use a few toothpicks to secure the seam if needed, but remember to remove them before slicing and serving!)

9. Roast to Perfection: Place the tied, stuffed turkey breast seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet (or a roasting pan with a rack, if using). Brush the entire top surface of the turkey generously with olive oil; this will help achieve a beautiful golden-brown and slightly crispy exterior. Roast in the preheated oven for 55–65 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the turkey (avoiding the stuffing) registers an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
10. Rest, Slice, and Serve: Once cooked, remove the stuffed turkey breast from the oven and let it rest on the cutting board for 10 minutes. This crucial resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a tender and succulent result. After resting, carefully snip and remove all the kitchen twine. Using a sharp serrated or carving knife, slice the turkey into ½–1-inch thick pieces, revealing those stunning spirals. Serve immediately with your favorite holiday sides and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions for Stuffed Turkey Breast

Presentation is key to making this stuffed turkey breast a true showstopper. Once sliced into those gorgeous spirals, arrange them artfully on a large, elegant platter. Drizzle generously with homemade turkey gravy and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a few sprigs of sage and extra dried cranberries for an exceptionally festive holiday presentation. This dish is a natural fit for classic holiday sides, creating a harmonious and delicious spread. Consider pairing it with creamy Instant Pot red mashed potatoes, vibrant roasted green beans and potatoes, sweet maple-glazed carrots, or our irresistible warm sourdough rolls to soak up all the flavorful juices. For beverages, sparkling cider, a crisp white wine, or a festive cranberry punch would beautifully complement the rich flavors. If you’re looking for more turkey tenderloin sides to round out your meal, a light, refreshing green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a lovely contrast. Conclude your memorable meal with classic holiday desserts like a comforting custard pumpkin pie or a warm apple berry crisp.

This exquisite stuffed turkey breast truly makes a stunning centerpiece for any holiday table. For a completely stress-free feast, pair it with other delightful dishes from our comprehensive Thanksgiving dinner menu. And don’t forget to kick off the celebration with our best appetizers for Thanksgiving dinner to keep your guests happily mingling while your magnificent turkey finishes cooking. For an extra touch of sophistication, serve individual slices on plates with a generous spoonful of gravy cascading over the top – a restaurant-style presentation that makes every guest feel truly special and celebrated.

Stuffed Turkey Breast Recipe FAQs

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• Juicy Buttermilk Brined Turkey Breast
• Sweet & Savory Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts
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Stuffed Turkey Breast Recipe

By Renae Gerhardstein

This stuffed turkey breast is tender, juicy, and filled with savory herb stuffing! Perfect for holidays and special dinners. Easy and elegant!

Print Recipe
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Course: Main Course, Entree

Cuisine: American

Servings: 12 slices

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour

Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Calories: 222 kcal

Equipment

• cutting board
• sharp knife
• cling plastic wrap
• meat mallet (or heavy skillet)
• medium saucepan
• wooden spoon or fork
• rimmed baking sheet
• parchment paper
• butcher or kitchen twine
• basting brush
• instant-read thermometer
• serrated knife

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups chicken broth
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 6 oz Stove Top Turkey Stuffing Mix (1 box)
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• ½ cup pecans (finely chopped)
• ½ teaspoon poultry seasoning
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 2.5 pounds boneless turkey breast
• coarse kosher salt to taste
• black pepper to taste
• olive oil for brushing

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring 1 ½ cups chicken broth and 3 tablespoons butter to a boil over medium heat. Stir in ½ teaspoon poultry seasoning and ½ teaspoon garlic powder.
3. Add the 6-ounce box of stuffing mix, stir to combine, then turn off the heat and cover. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
4. Fluff with a fork and stir in ½ cup dried cranberries and ½ cup chopped pecans. Let it cool slightly while you prep the turkey.
5. Place your turkey breast on a cutting board. Remove the skin from the breast. Use a sharp knife to cut horizontally through the thickest part, stopping about ½ – 1 inch from the other side, so it opens up like a book. Lay a piece of plastic wrap over it and pound it gently with a meat mallet until it’s even in thickness (about ½ to 1 inch thick).
6. Sprinkle both sides of the turkey breast with your desired amount of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Spread the cooled stuffing evenly over the inside, pressing it gently into place and leaving a 1-inch border. Roll up the turkey breast tightly (like a jelly roll), then tie it up securely with kitchen twine every 1.5–2 inches to hold everything together.
7. Place the rolled turkey breast seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet. Brush the top with olive oil. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the center (avoiding the stuffing). Let the turkey breast rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
8. After resting, remove the twine, slice into ½–1-inch pieces, and serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes and green beans. Enjoy this elegant stuffed turkey breast!

Notes

TFN Pro Tips:

• Make a Quick Pan Gravy: Don’t discard those flavorful browned bits in the roasting pan! Transfer them to a large skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or white wine to deglaze the pan and incorporate all the savory bits. Whisk in a tablespoon of flour and cook for a minute, then gradually whisk in 1-2 cups more broth until thickened. Season with salt and pepper for a simple, delicious gravy to complement your sliced turkey.
• Don’t Overstuff the Turkey: It’s tempting to pack in as much stuffing as possible, but leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges of the butterflied turkey breast is essential. Overstuffing makes rolling difficult and can cause the filling to spill out during cooking. A 2-inch layer of stuffing is perfect—it ensures beautiful spirals when sliced and a balanced flavor in every bite.

Recipe Variations:

• Savory Sausage and Herb Stuffing: Brown ½ pound of ground sausage with diced onions and celery, then mix this savory mixture into your prepared stuffing. For extra richness, add a few spoonfuls of softened cream cheese to the stuffing before rolling.
• Bacon-Wrapped Turkey Breast: After rolling and tying, wrap bacon strips across the top of the turkey, tucking the ends underneath. The bacon crisps up beautifully, keeping the turkey incredibly juicy and adding smoky flavor.
• Spinach, Mushroom, and Cheese Filling: Sauté mushrooms, spinach, and onions in butter until tender. Mix with the stuffing, then stir in shredded cheese and a beaten egg to bind. This creates delicious melted cheese pockets in every slice.

Make Ahead, Storing, and Reheating Instructions:

• Make Ahead: You can butterfly, stuff, and roll the turkey breast up to 24 hours in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. If baking from the fridge, add 5-10 minutes to the cooking time. This make-ahead option is perfect for reducing holiday stress.
• Storing Leftovers: Allow the turkey to cool completely. Slice any leftovers and store them in an airtight container, layering parchment paper between slices to prevent sticking. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: For oven reheating, place slices in a baking dish with a few tablespoons of broth or gravy, cover with foil, and warm at 325°F (160°C) for 15-20 minutes. For quick reheating, microwave individual slices on a plate with a damp paper towel for 1-2 minutes on medium power. The oven method yields better texture, while the microwave is ideal for speed. Thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge first for best results.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 slice | Calories: 222kcal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 23g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 59mg | Sodium: 504mg | Potassium: 291mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 112IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 33mg | Iron: 1mg