Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner or a special occasion feast, knowing how to cook turkey tenderloin properly enjoy delicious and tender cut of meat. In this article, I’ll walk you through four popular ways to cook turkey tenderloin
1. How To Cook Turkey Tenderloin in Oven
Baking turkey tenderloin in the oven is a foolproof method that yields juicy and flavorful results.
Ingredients
- 1 lb turkey tenderloin
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Herbs & spices (rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, etc.)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Place the turkey tenderloin on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a baking dish.
Drizzle olive oil over the turkey to help seal in moisture. Season with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs and spices.
Place the tenderloin in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes
Allow the turkey to rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
2. How To Cook Turkey Tenderloin in Air Fryer
The air fryer is a fantastic kitchen gadget that produces a perfectly cooked turkey tenderloin with a crispy exterior.
Ingredients
- 1 lb turkey tenderloin
- Olive oil
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Seasonings of your choice
Instructions
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Rub the turkey tenderloin with a light coating of olive oil. Season with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices.
Place the tenderloin in the air fryer basket. Cook for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through
Allow the turkey to rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
3. How To Cook Turkey Tenderloin on Grill
Grilling imparts a smoky flavor and beautiful grill marks to turkey tenderloin, making it a popular choice for outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
Ingredients
- 1 lb turkey tenderloin
- Olive oil
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Marinade of your choice (citrus, soy, or herb-based)
Instructions
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Brush the turkey tenderloin with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Optionally, marinate the tenderloin for added flavor.
Place the tenderloin on the preheated grill. Grill for approximately 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally
Let the turkey rest for a few minutes before slicing.
4. How To Cook Turkey Tenderloin on Stove
Ingredients
- 1 lb turkey tenderloin
- Olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Herbs and spices (sage, thyme, paprika, etc.)
Instructions
Heat a skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil or a pat of butter.
Season the turkey tenderloin with salt, pepper, and your preferred herbs and spices.
Place the tenderloin in the hot pan. Cook for approximately 3-4 minutes per side, until nicely browned
Let the turkey rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
5. What To Serve With Turkey Tenderloin
Turkey tenderloin is a lean and flavorful cut of meat that pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas for what to serve with turkey tenderloin:
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that complements the flavor of turkey well.
Stuffing: Traditional stuffing made with bread, herbs, and sometimes vegetables can be served alongside turkey for a comforting and complete meal.
Cranberry Sauce: The tangy sweetness of cranberry sauce contrasts nicely with the savory turkey.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasting vegetables like carrots, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes alongside the turkey tenderloin can complement the dish with their caramelized flavors.
Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a vinaigrette dressing can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty turkey.
Bread Rolls: Soft dinner rolls or crusty bread are great for sopping up any delicious sauces or gravies.
Quinoa or Rice: Consider serving turkey tenderloin with cooked quinoa or rice for a wholesome and filling meal.
6. Frequently Asked Questions
5.1. Is Turkey Tenderloin the Same As Turkey Breast?
Turkey tenderloin and turkey breast are not the same, although they are both cuts of meat from the turkey. Turkey tenderloin is a specific portion of the turkey breast, prized for its tenderness and ideal for quick-cooking methods, while turkey breast refers to the larger, broader meat of the breast, which may include both the tenderloin and the thicker breast meat.
5.2. When is Turkey Tenderloin Done?
Turkey tenderloin is considered done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This temperature ensures that any harmful bacteria in the meat have been killed, making it safe to eat.
To check the internal temperature of the turkey tenderloin, use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the tenderloin. Once the thermometer reads 165°F (74°C), the turkey tenderloin is ready to be removed from the heat source.
5.3. Is Turkey Tenderloin Good For You?
Yes, turkey tenderloin is good for you. It’s low in fat and calories while being rich in high-quality protein, essential vitamins like B6 and niacin, and minerals like selenium and phosphorus. Its versatility in cooking makes it easy to incorporate into a balanced meal plan, making it a nutritious and delicious option for health-conscious individuals.
