Juicy Instant Pot Turkey Tenderloin

Transform your dinner routine with the incredibly simple and satisfying Instant Pot Turkey Tenderloin recipe. This culinary masterpiece effortlessly brings together succulent turkey, creamy mashed potatoes, and rich, savory gravy—all prepared in a single pressure cooker. It’s an ideal solution for those hectic weeknights or when you desire a comforting, homemade meal without the hassle of firing up the oven. Experience the unparalleled convenience and flavor that an Instant Pot delivers, making gourmet-quality turkey dinner accessible to everyone.

If you’re yearning for a genuinely comforting, homemade meal but dread the hours spent in the kitchen, this Instant Pot turkey tenderloin recipe is your perfect answer. Pressure cooking is a game-changer, expertly locking in moisture to ensure every slice of turkey is incredibly juicy and tender. The true genius of this method lies in its efficiency: you can prepare the entire meal—including perfectly fluffy mashed potatoes and a delectable gravy—right in one pot. This streamlined approach not only saves time but also minimizes cleanup, making it a favorite for busy cooks.

For those who appreciate variety and flexibility in their cooking, this Instant Pot technique offers a fantastic alternative to our beloved crockpot turkey tenderloin recipe. While slow cooking delivers that classic, deep, all-day simmered flavor, the Instant Pot version excels in speed, bringing a complete and hearty dinner to your table in under an hour. Whether you’re seeking a quick weeknight solution or a simplified holiday feast, the Instant Pot turkey tenderloin consistently delivers exceptional results with remarkable ease.

Why We Love Instant Pot Turkey Tenderloin

The Instant Pot isn’t just a kitchen gadget; it’s a culinary revolution, especially when it comes to preparing tender and flavorful turkey tenderloin. Here’s why this recipe earns a permanent spot in our meal rotation:

• The Ultimate Small Family Thanksgiving or Holiday Meal.
  This recipe yields a generous amount, typically serving 4-6 people, making it an ideal choice for smaller holiday gatherings where a whole turkey might be excessive. It provides all the festive flavors without the overwhelming quantity, ensuring everyone gets a taste of tender turkey, creamy potatoes, and rich gravy. Beyond holidays, it’s a perfectly balanced and satisfying weeknight dinner.
• Liberates Your Oven Space!
  One of the biggest advantages, particularly during holiday cooking, is that this dish requires absolutely no oven time. This frees up your conventional oven for baking other essential dishes, such as crispy roasted sweet potatoes, savory stuffing, or a fresh batch of fluffy sourdough rolls from starter. Maximize your kitchen efficiency and minimize stress!
• Nearly Impossible to Overcook.
  The precision of pressure cooking is truly remarkable. One of our favorite aspects of the Instant Pot is its “set it and forget it” convenience. The sealed environment ensures consistent cooking, locking in moisture and flavor, which dramatically reduces the risk of dry, overcooked turkey. When the lid comes off, you’re greeted with perfectly cooked turkey and tender potatoes, ready to be transformed into a complete meal.
• Unmatched Tenderness and Juiciness.
  The high-pressure environment tenderizes the turkey breast tenderloin beautifully, resulting in meat that practically melts in your mouth. Say goodbye to dry turkey forever; the Instant Pot guarantees a juicy result every time.
• Effortless One-Pot Cleanup.
  Cooking the turkey, potatoes, and gravy all in the same pot means less mess and less time spent scrubbing dishes. This streamlines your entire cooking process, from preparation to cleanup, allowing you more time to enjoy your delicious meal.

Turkey Tenderloin vs. Turkey Breast: Understanding the Cut

While often used interchangeably, turkey tenderloins are a distinct and highly prized cut of meat. Turkey tenderloins are the two long, lean strips of meat found underneath the main turkey breast. Because this muscle group is not heavily used by the bird, tenderloins are naturally exceptionally tender, making them an excellent choice for quick-cooking methods like pressure cooking.

In contrast, a full turkey breast is a larger, more muscular cut that can sometimes be more prone to drying out if not cooked carefully. The tenderloin’s compact size and inherent tenderness make it quick to cook and easy to flavor, absorbing seasonings beautifully. It’s a lean, healthy white meat option that delivers gourmet results with minimal effort, perfect for a hassle-free, delicious dinner.

Essential Ingredients and Clever Substitutions

Crafting this incredible one-pot meal requires a handful of common ingredients, many of which you likely already have on hand. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and some smart substitutions to fit your pantry and preferences:

• Turkey Tenderloins: The star of our dish! We often use the Jennie-O brand, known for its consistent quality. These are typically available year-round at most grocery stores, especially Walmart, and become even more widespread during the fall and winter holiday seasons. Most packages contain two tenderloins, totaling around 1 1/2 pounds, which is perfect for serving 4-6 people.
• All-Purpose Seasoning: This is where you can truly personalize the flavor. Feel free to use your favorite pre-made blend, or create your own by combining pantry staples like salt, freshly ground black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, dried thyme, or sage. A good poultry seasoning blend also works wonderfully here.
• Olive Oil: Essential for searing the turkey tenderloins to create that beautiful golden crust and lock in flavors. If olive oil isn’t on hand, you can easily substitute it with other cooking oils such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or even avocado oil.

For the Creamy Mashed Potatoes

• Chicken Broth or Stock: This flavorful liquid not only provides the necessary moisture for pressure cooking but also forms the base for our rich gravy. Opt for low sodium if you prefer to control the salt content.
• Potatoes: The foundation of our creamy mash! Russet potatoes are excellent for a fluffy texture, while Red or Yukon Gold potatoes yield a creamier, slightly denser result. Peeling is optional; many enjoy the rustic texture and added nutrients of leaving the skins on, especially with Red or Yukon Gold varieties. Ensure they are cut into roughly 3-inch quarters for even cooking.
• Milk: Adds richness and creaminess to the mashed potatoes. For an even more indulgent flavor, you can substitute whole milk with half-and-half or light cream. Dairy-free milk alternatives can also be used if preferred, though they may slightly alter the texture.
• Butter: Contributes to the luxurious flavor and smooth texture of the mashed potatoes. Margarine or ghee can be used as alternatives, with ghee adding a lovely nutty undertone.
• Garlic Powder: For a delicious garlicky kick in your potatoes. If you prefer using fresh garlic, you can create a quick garlic butter by mixing softened butter with finely minced fresh garlic.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Basic seasonings to enhance all the flavors in the potatoes. Adjust to your taste.

For the Rich Homemade Gravy

• Cornstarch Slurry: This simple mixture of cornstarch and cold water is the secret to a perfectly thickened gravy. It helps create a smooth, lump-free consistency, transforming the flavorful broth into a delectable sauce to drizzle over your turkey and potatoes.

Smart Recipe Variations to Explore

This Instant Pot turkey tenderloin recipe is wonderfully versatile, offering plenty of room for creative twists:

• Infuse with Fresh Herbs for Enhanced Flavor: For a simple yet impactful flavor boost, sprinkle a generous amount of freshly chopped herbs over the turkey before pressure cooking. Rosemary, thyme, and sage are classic choices that pair beautifully with turkey, lending an aromatic touch that elevates the entire dish and complements the mashed potatoes and gravy perfectly.
• Create a Vegetable-Packed Version: Boost the nutritional value and add extra texture by incorporating diced celery, carrots, or onions into the pot along with the potatoes. These vegetables will cook down beautifully under pressure, infusing the broth with subtle, sweet flavors without requiring any additional effort.
• Transform Turkey Leftovers into Exciting New Meals: Don’t let any delicious turkey go to waste! Leftovers are fantastic for quick and easy meals the next day. Slice the cooked turkey and add it to sandwiches or wraps, stir it into hearty soups or chilis, or toss it with pasta and your favorite vegetables for a delicious and fuss-free dinner solution. You can even make a quick turkey salad or mini turkey pot pies.
• Swap Mashed Potatoes with Other Comforting Side Dishes: While classic mashed potatoes are undeniably delicious, this recipe is flexible enough to accommodate other sides. Consider serving the tender turkey slices with fluffy rice pilaf, roasted sweet potato wedges, or even a savory bread stuffing for a heartier meal. Each different side dish will give your Instant Pot turkey tenderloin meal a fresh, new feel.
• Spice It Up: For a bolder flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to your all-purpose seasoning. A dash of smoked paprika can also add a delightful depth.
• Creamier Gravy: If you desire an even richer gravy, stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream or a pat of butter at the very end, just before serving.

Equipment for Your One-Pot Masterpiece

To successfully execute this streamlined turkey dinner, you’ll need just one primary piece of kitchen equipment:

• Instant Pot or other Electric Pressure Cooker: Any brand or model of electric pressure cooker will work for this recipe. Ensure it has a sauté function. A 6-quart or 8-quart model is typically ideal for this quantity of ingredients.
• Meat Thermometer: While not strictly required for the Instant Pot’s precision, a reliable meat thermometer is always recommended to ensure the turkey reaches a safe internal temperature of 165ºF.
• Slotted Spoon and Potato Masher/Hand Mixer: For handling the potatoes.
• Whisk: For making smooth gravy.

How to Make Instant Pot Turkey Breast Tenderloin with Mashed Potatoes and Gravy

Get ready to create a truly delicious and effortlessly prepared meal. Follow these simple steps to make your Instant Pot turkey tenderloin dinner:

Prepare and Sear the Turkey

1. Season and Sear for Maximum Flavor.
   Begin by setting your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” mode and add the olive oil. While the pot heats, generously rub the turkey tenderloins on all sides with your chosen all-purpose seasoning. Once the Instant Pot is hot (it will display “Hot” or indicate it’s ready), carefully place the seasoned turkey tenderloins into the pot. Sear each side until it achieves a beautiful golden-brown color, about 3-4 minutes per side. This crucial step develops a rich depth of flavor through the Maillard reaction.

Deglaze and Pressure Cook

2. Deglaze the Pot with Broth.
   Carefully remove the seared turkey tenderloins from the Instant Pot and set them aside on a plate. Pour the chicken broth into the pot. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to gently scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. This process, known as deglazing, is essential as these flavorful bits will infuse the broth and form the delicious base for your gravy. Press the “Cancel” button to turn off the sauté function.
3. Layer Potatoes and Turkey for Pressure Cooking.
   Add the cubed potatoes to the bottom of the pot, ensuring they are submerged in the broth. Carefully place the seared turkey tenderloins on top of the potatoes. Secure the Instant Pot lid, making sure the sealing valve is set to the “Sealing” position (if your model requires it). Press the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” button, set it to “High Pressure,” and adjust the cooking time to 8 minutes.

Release Pressure and Rest

3. Allow Natural Release, Then Quick Release.
   Once the pressure cooking cycle is complete, let the Instant Pot perform a natural pressure release for 10 minutes. This means simply leaving the pot undisturbed after the cooking time ends. After 10 minutes, carefully perform a quick release by turning or depressing the pressure valve to vent any remaining steam. Once the float valve drops, you can safely open the lid.
4. Rest the Turkey for Juiciness.
   Immediately transfer the cooked turkey tenderloins to a serving platter. Loosely cover them with aluminum foil and allow them to rest for at least 10 minutes. This resting period is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a wonderfully moist and tender turkey when sliced.

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

4. Mash the Potatoes to Perfection.
   Using a slotted spoon, carefully scoop the cooked potatoes from the Instant Pot into a large mixing bowl, leaving the flavorful broth behind in the pot (this broth is for the gravy!). Add the milk (or cream/half-and-half), butter, and garlic powder to the potatoes. Mash them thoroughly with a potato masher or a hand mixer until they reach your desired creamy consistency. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Cover the mashed potatoes with foil or a lid to keep them warm.

Make the Velvety Gravy

5. Thicken the Broth into Rich Gravy.
   With the potatoes removed, press the “Sauté” button again on your Instant Pot, setting it to “High.” In a small cup, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until you have a smooth slurry. Gradually whisk this cornstarch slurry into the simmering broth in the Instant Pot. Continue whisking constantly as the gravy heats and thickens. It will become rich and bubbly as it reaches your desired consistency. Once thickened, carefully ladle the homemade gravy into a separate serving dish and turn off the Instant Pot.

Delicious Serving Suggestions and Perfect Pairings

This Instant Pot Turkey Tenderloin meal is a complete dinner on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a variety of classic side dishes to create an even more memorable spread. Here are some fantastic suggestions:

• Roasted Vegetables: Complement the richness of the turkey and potatoes with vibrant, tender-crisp vegetables. Our roasted carrots and asparagus are simple to make and add a touch of elegance.
• Savory Casseroles: For an extra layer of comfort, consider a creamy casserole. A parmesan asparagus casserole offers a cheesy, indulgent twist.
• Unique Vegetable Sides: If you’re looking for something a bit different, our candied brussel sprouts with maple balsamic glaze provide a delightful balance of sweet and savory.
• Freshly Baked Bread: No comforting dinner table is truly complete without warm, fluffy bread to soak up every last drop of gravy. Serve with the best Bisquick biscuits or our incredibly easy three-ingredient biscuits made with self-rising flour.
• Dessert: Conclude your meal on a sweet note with a classic, effortless dessert like our Bisquick apple cobbler with canned pie filling.

Presentation Tips: Slice the tenderloin breasts into 1-inch thick medallions before serving. Arrange them artfully on a platter alongside the creamy mashed potatoes. Drizzle a generous amount of warm gravy over the turkey, or serve it on the side for guests to add as they please. A sprig of fresh rosemary or a sprinkle of chopped parsley makes for a beautiful, aromatic garnish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about making Instant Pot Turkey Tenderloin:

Discover More Tenderloin Recipes To Love…

• Instant Pot Pork Tenderloin With Potatoes and Gravy
• Sheet Pan Pork Tenderloin
• Cajun Chicken Tenders
• Baked BBQ Chicken Tenders Dinner

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Instant Pot Turkey Tenderloin

Recipe by Renae Gerhardstein

Create a tender, juicy, and flavorful Instant Pot turkey tenderloin complete with creamy mashed potatoes and rich gravy, all cooked in a single pot. This effortless recipe is perfect for quick family dinners or a simplified holiday meal!

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Course: Entree

Cuisine: American

Servings: 6 servings

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Combined Pressurize + Release Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Calories: 428 kcal per serving

Equipment

• Instant Pot – or other electric pressure cooker

Ingredients

For the Turkey Tenderloins

• 1 ½ pounds turkey breast tenderloin (about 2 tenderloins)
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Mashed Potatoes

• 6 potatoes (red or Yukon Gold, cut into 3-inch quarters; peeling is optional)
• 3 cups chicken broth or stock (low sodium or regular)
• ⅓ cup whole milk (or half and half, or cream)
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 Tablespoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Gravy

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons cold water

Instructions

For the Turkey and Potatoes:

1. Set Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add olive oil. Rub all-purpose seasoning evenly over all sides of the turkey tenderloins.
2. When the pot is hot, brown each tenderloin on all sides until lightly golden (about 3-4 minutes per side). While turkey sears, prepare potatoes.
3. Remove the browned tenderloins and let them rest on a plate. Add the chicken broth to the pot and stir to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
4. Press the cancel button. Add the cut potatoes to the bottom of the pot, then place the turkey tenderloins on top.
5. Twist on the Instant Pot lid, turn the pressure lever to seal (if applicable), then press the high-pressure button and set for 8 minutes.
6. When pressure cooking is complete, allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then perform a quick release.
7. Transfer turkey to a serving platter and cover loosely with foil to rest.

Mash the Potatoes:

1. Using a slotted spoon, scoop the cooked potatoes into a large mixing bowl. Add milk/cream, butter, and garlic powder. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or hand mixer until smooth. Cover to keep warm.

Make the Gravy:

1. Press the sauté button (set to HIGH). In a cup, mix the cornstarch and cold water to create a slurry. Using a whisk, stir the cornstarch mixture into the broth remaining in the pot until smooth. Continue stirring until the gravy is thick and bubbly.

Serving Tips:

1. Slice turkey tenderloin breasts into 1-inch thick pieces before serving. Drizzle gravy over the turkey and potatoes. Garnish with a sprig of fresh rosemary or chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

• No Instant Pot? If you don’t own an electric pressure cooker, you can make a roasted turkey tenderloin recipe in the oven, or use our recipe for turkey tenderloin in a crock pot instead.

Recipe Variations:

• Add fresh herbs for extra flavor: Sprinkle chopped thyme, rosemary, or a mix of your favorite herbs over the turkey before pressure cooking for a fresh, aromatic touch.
• Make a vegetable-packed version: Boost nutrition and texture by adding diced celery, carrots, or onions to the pot along with the potatoes.
• Transform turkey leftovers: Use any leftover turkey for easy lunches or dinners the next day, such as in sandwiches, soups, or tossed with pasta.
• Swap mashed potatoes with another comforting side: Serve the tender turkey slices with rice, roasted vegetables, or stuffing for variety.

Storing Instructions:

• Leftovers will last for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Allow everything to cool completely and transfer to individual airtight containers before refrigerating.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 serving | Calories: 428 kcal | Carbohydrates: 41g | Protein: 24g | Fat: 19g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 84mg | Sodium: 2057mg | Potassium: 1366mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 308IU | Vitamin C: 50mg | Calcium: 57mg | Iron: 3mg