Stuffed Turkey Breast Recipe: How to Make Your Holidays Unforgettable!

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dish that’s both delicious and easy to prepare, a stuffed turkey breast is a perfect choice.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or want to try something new for your weeknight meals, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

A boneless, skinless turkey breast rolled up with a savory, flavorful stuffing inside? What’s not to love?

Here’s everything you need to know to make a delicious stuffed turkey breast. Let’s dive right in!

Table of Contents

Ingredients

Before you get started, let’s gather our ingredients. You’ll need:

1 boneless, skinless turkey breast (about 3-4 pounds)
2 tbsp olive oil (or butter)
Salt and pepper (to taste)
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups fresh spinach (or other greens like kale)
1 ½ cups bread cubes (use any bread you like: sourdough, whole wheat, or a crusty French loaf)
½ cup shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or a mix)
¼ cup chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans, optional)
¼ cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional, for a sweet-tart twist)
Fresh herbs: rosemary, thyme, sage (about 1 tbsp each)
1 cup chicken broth (or white wine for extra flavor)

Preparing the Turkey Breast

Start by prepping your turkey breast. If you’ve bought a whole turkey breast with the bone still in, you’ll need to butterfly it—basically, slice it open like a book to create an even, flat surface that will be easy to roll up.

Tip: If you’re not confident about butterflying the turkey, ask your butcher to do it for you. They’ll know exactly how to handle it. You’re good to go if you already have a boneless turkey breast!

Once the turkey is butterflied, season it generously with salt, pepper, and any other herbs you like. I usually stick with rosemary and thyme to keep it simple and flavorful.

Making the Stuffing

Now it’s time to get to the good stuff—the stuffing! Start by heating some olive oil (or butter) in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and sauté until they’re soft and fragrant—about 5 minutes.

Next, toss in the spinach and let it wilt down. You’ll be left with a fragrant, colorful mixture that forms the base of your stuffing.

In a separate bowl, combine the bread cubes, shredded cheese, chopped nuts (if using), and dried fruit. Once the spinach mixture is done, add it to the bread mixture and stir well.

If you like your stuffing a little moister, drizzle in some chicken broth or even a splash of white wine.

Pro Tip: You can get creative with your stuffing! Try adding things like roasted mushrooms, garlic, or even a bit of sausage for extra flavor.

Stuffing and Rolling the Turkey Breast

Once your stuffing is ready, it’s time to stuff that turkey! Spoon the stuffing mixture onto the center of the butterflied turkey breast. Don’t overstuff it—leave enough space around the edges to roll it up comfortably.

Roll the turkey breast carefully, like rolling a big sushi roll, ensuring the stuffing stays inside. You can use some butcher’s twine to tie the roll in place or even toothpicks if you don’t have twine.

Either way, ensure the ends are secure so no stuffing escapes while cooking.

Cooking the Stuffed Turkey Breast

Now for the magic part: cooking. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the stuffed turkey breast in a roasting pan, drizzle with a little more olive oil, and sprinkle with a bit more salt and pepper.

Pop the turkey in the oven and roast for about 1.5 hours. It’s best to use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, just watch the turkey and check that it’s golden brown outside.

During cooking, you can baste the turkey every 20-30 minutes with the pan juices to keep it moist and flavorful. But honestly, if you’re not feeling the basting routine, don’t stress—it’ll still turn out beautifully.

Once the turkey is done, let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This step helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a juicy, tender turkey every time.

Serving Suggestions

To serve your stuffed turkey breast, slice it into thick, juicy rounds. Each slice reveals the beautiful stuffing inside, and the aroma will have everyone at the table mouth-watering.

As for sides, this dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even a light salad with a tangy vinaigrette. A drizzle of gravy or a rich, buttery sauce will take it to the next level.

Tips and Tricks

How to keep the stuffing moist: Do not overcook the turkey. It should be just done—no dry meat here! If you feel like the stuffing is too dry, add more broth or wine to the mix.

Can I prep ahead of time? Yes! You can stuff and roll the turkey the day before and bake it the next day. This is perfect if you’re entertaining and want to save time.

Customize your stuffing: Feel free to experiment with different stuffing ingredients! Add sautéed mushrooms, bacon, or crumbled feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist. You can also make a vegetarian version by swapping out meat-based ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use a bone-in turkey breast?

Yes, absolutely! Just be aware that bone-in turkey breasts may require a little more cooking time, and you’ll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. You can still stuff it the same way; just be mindful when slicing afterward.

Can I make the stuffing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffing mixture the day before and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, stuff the turkey and proceed with the recipe.

How do I store leftovers?

Any leftover stuffed turkey breast can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you have more than you can eat right away, you can also freeze it. Just be sure to wrap it tightly before freezing.

Can I use other meats instead of turkey?

If turkey isn’t your thing, you can easily substitute chicken breasts or even pork tenderloin for a similar stuffed roast. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the meat.

This stuffed turkey breast recipe is everything you need for a memorable meal. It’s simple, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for the holidays, a family dinner, or just because, this dish will impress. Happy cooking!