Savory Garlic Butter Turkey Tenderloin

This savory garlic butter turkey tenderloin is juicy, flavorful, and perfect for a comforting dinner. I love how the tenderloins soak up the rich garlic-herb butter, creating a dish that feels elegant yet is simple enough for a weeknight meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like how quick this recipe is to prepare compared to roasting a whole turkey. The garlic, lemon, and herbs infuse the meat with incredible flavor, while the butter keeps it moist and tender. I find that it’s versatile enough to serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or even a fresh salad.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

2 turkey tenderloins (about 1 lb each)
1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), melted
6 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried)
2 tablespoons fresh thyme, finely chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried)
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 lemon
1 tablespoon olive oil

Directions

1. I preheat my oven to 190°C (375°F).
2. I pat the turkey tenderloins dry with paper towels and season them generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and onion powder.
3. In a bowl, I mix the melted butter with garlic, rosemary, thyme, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
4. I heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
5. I sear the turkey tenderloins for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
6. I pour the garlic butter mixture over the tenderloins.
7. I transfer the skillet to the oven and roast for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F).
8. I spoon the pan juices over the meat before letting it rest for 5 minutes.
9. I slice and serve with extra garlic butter drizzled on top.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4–6 people. I usually spend 10 minutes preparing, 5 minutes searing, and 20–25 minutes roasting, making the total cooking time around 40 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I swap rosemary and thyme for sage and parsley for a slightly different flavor. If I want a smoky note, I add a pinch of smoked paprika. I also like to stuff the tenderloins with spinach and cheese before searing for a richer variation.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I cover the slices with foil and warm them in the oven at 160°C (325°F) for 10–12 minutes. I can also freeze the cooked turkey for up to 2 months, making sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I grill the turkey tenderloins instead of roasting?

Yes, I often grill them over medium heat for about 20 minutes, turning occasionally.

How do I know when the turkey is fully cooked?

I use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F).

Can I use chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, chicken breasts or thighs work well with the same seasoning and cooking method.

Do I have to sear the tenderloins before roasting?

I like to sear them for flavor and color, but I can skip this step if I’m short on time.

Can I prepare the garlic butter in advance?

Yes, I make it a day ahead and keep it in the fridge until ready to use.

What side dishes go best with this recipe?

I like pairing it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or rice pilaf.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, I substitute olive oil or dairy-free butter for the unsalted butter.

How do I keep the turkey tender and juicy?

I avoid overcooking and let the meat rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Can I marinate the turkey in the garlic butter overnight?

Yes, I sometimes do this for deeper flavor, but I keep it chilled until cooking.

What type of pan should I use?

I prefer a cast iron or oven-safe skillet for both searing and roasting in one pan.

Conclusion

This savory garlic butter turkey tenderloin is a flavorful and comforting dish that I love to make for family dinners or special occasions. The herbs, garlic, and lemon give it a fresh yet rich taste, and it always turns out tender and delicious.

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