Best Christmas Stuffed Turkey Breast

Here is my go-to recipe for the Best Christmas Stuffed Turkey Breast that’s perfect for your festive dinner. This dish features a moist, herb-seasoned filling and tender meat that stays juicy, making it an excellent choice for Christmas or any special occasion. The unique combination of flavors ensures that every bite is memorable and delightful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Deliciously Flavorful: The herb blend and rich cream cheese filling create a taste sensation.
  • Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can impress their guests.
  • Versatile Dish: Perfect for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or any family gathering.
  • Healthy Option: Utilizing turkey keeps this recipe lean while still being hearty.
  • Impressive Presentation: Serve this stuffed turkey breast as a stunning centerpiece.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process. Organizing your kitchen can make all the difference in your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking dish
  • Meat thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

  • Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes slicing through the turkey effortless and safe.
  • Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients thoroughly without mess.
  • Meat thermometer: Ensures your turkey is cooked to perfection and safe to eat.
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Ingredients

For the Turkey Breast

  • 2.75-3 pounds turkey breast or tenderloins
  • 1/3 cup Turkey Bacon pieces, chopped

For the Filling

  • 4 ounces softened cream cheese
  • 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
  • 1/3 cup fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon rosemary, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon thyme, finely chopped

For Seasoning

  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1 tablespoon fresh herbs, chopped (additional parsley, rosemary, and thyme used)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Make Best Christmas Stuffed Turkey Breast

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring it’s hot enough to cook the turkey evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl:
* Combine the softened cream cheese with minced garlic, spinach, Turkey Bacon pieces, salt, pepper, parsley, rosemary, and thyme.
* Mix until well blended and creamy.

Step 3: Stuff the Turkey Breast

  • Carefully slice into the turkey breast to create a pocket without cutting all the way through.
  • Fill this pocket with your prepared filling using a spoon. Press gently to ensure it’s packed but not overflowing.

Step 4: Season and Bake

  • Rub melted butter over the outside of the turkey breast.
  • Sprinkle garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper on top for extra flavor.
  • Place in a baking dish and bake in preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Let It Rest

Remove from oven and let the stuffed turkey breast rest for at least five minutes before slicing. This helps retain moisture.

Enjoy your delicious Best Christmas Stuffed Turkey Breast that will surely delight everyone at your table!

How to Serve Best Christmas Stuffed Turkey Breast

Serving your Best Christmas Stuffed Turkey Breast well can elevate your holiday gathering. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that complement its rich flavors and festive spirit.

Festive Salad

  • A fresh salad with mixed greens, cranberries, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the savory turkey.

Mashed Potatoes

  • Creamy mashed potatoes topped with herbs create a classic pairing, offering comfort alongside your turkey breast.

Gravy Drizzle

  • Serve warm turkey gravy on the side for an added layer of flavor. It enhances the moistness of the stuffed turkey.

Roasted Vegetables

  • Colorful roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes provide nutrition and a vibrant visual appeal on the plate.

Cranberry Sauce

  • A tangy cranberry sauce balances the richness of the turkey. It’s a traditional addition that guests will love.

Dinner Rolls

  • Soft dinner rolls or artisan bread make excellent accompaniments for soaking up any leftover gravy or juices from the turkey.

How to Perfect Best Christmas Stuffed Turkey Breast

Achieving perfection in your Best Christmas Stuffed Turkey Breast requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for an impressive dish.

  • Choose quality turkey: Select a fresh or high-quality frozen turkey breast to ensure tenderness and flavor.
  • Room temperature ingredients: Allow your cream cheese and other filling ingredients to reach room temperature for easy mixing.
  • Proper seasoning: Don’t skimp on herbs and spices; they enhance the flavor profile significantly.
  • Stuff generously: Ensure the filling is packed into the turkey breast for maximum flavor in every bite.
  • Rest before slicing: Let your cooked turkey rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain its juices.
  • Use a meat thermometer: Cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety and best texture.

Best Side Dishes for Best Christmas Stuffed Turkey Breast

Pairing side dishes with your Best Christmas Stuffed Turkey Breast can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

  1. Garlic Green Beans
    Tender green beans sautéed with garlic add freshness and crunch to your plate.

  2. Sweet Potato Casserole
    This dish offers sweetness, topped with a crunchy pecan or oat topping that contrasts beautifully with savory flavors.

  3. Buttery Corn
    Sweet corn cooked in butter provides comfort food vibes, making it an excellent side choice.

  4. Wild Rice Pilaf
    A nutty wild rice pilaf infused with herbs creates a flavorful base that pairs beautifully with turkey.

  5. Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
    Roasted Brussels sprouts drizzled with balsamic glaze bring out their natural sweetness while adding acidity.

  6. Stuffing
    A hearty stuffing made with bread, vegetables, and herbs complements the turkey perfectly while adding texture to your meal.

  7. Cauliflower Gratin
    Creamy cauliflower gratin offers a rich, cheesy option that everyone will enjoy alongside the turkey breast.

  8. Pumpkin Soup
    A warm bowl of pumpkin soup can serve as a lovely starter to prepare guests for the main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Best Christmas Stuffed Turkey Breast, avoiding common pitfalls is key to achieving a delicious result.

  • Overstuffing the turkey: This can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure you add just enough filling to keep it moist without overwhelming the turkey breast.
  • Skipping seasoning: Neglecting to season the turkey and stuffing can result in bland flavors. Use salt, pepper, and fresh herbs generously for a flavorful dish.
  • Not resting the meat: Cutting into the turkey too soon can cause juices to escape. Allow it to rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing for a juicier texture.
  • Ignoring the cooking time: Each turkey breast may cook differently. Use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety and tenderness.
  • Using cold ingredients: Starting with cold cream cheese or other filling ingredients can affect how well they mix. Let them come to room temperature before using for better blending.
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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store leftover turkey in an airtight container.
  • It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Best Christmas Stuffed Turkey Breast

  • Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing in a freezer-safe container.
  • For best quality, consume within 3 months.

Reheating Best Christmas Stuffed Turkey Breast

  • Oven: Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Place turkey in a baking dish covered with foil until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
  • Microwave: Slice turkey and place on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power in short bursts, checking frequently.
  • Stovetop: Heat slices in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water, covering until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Best Christmas Stuffed Turkey Breast recipe?

The Best Christmas Stuffed Turkey Breast recipe features tender turkey filled with cream cheese, spinach, and aromatic herbs, making it ideal for festive gatherings.

Can I make the stuffing ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the stuffing mixture a day in advance. Just assemble it with the turkey breast when you’re ready to cook.

How do I ensure my turkey stays juicy?

Brining your turkey beforehand can help retain moisture. Additionally, resting it after cooking is crucial for juiciness.

What sides pair well with Best Christmas Stuffed Turkey Breast?

Consider serving roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or cranberry sauce as delightful accompaniments that enhance this holiday meal.

Can I customize the filling?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out spinach for kale or add nuts and dried fruits to personalize your stuffing mix further.

Final Thoughts

The Best Christmas Stuffed Turkey Breast offers a delightful centerpiece for your holiday table. Its versatility allows for various customization options based on personal taste. Whether you stick with classic flavors or experiment with new ones, this recipe promises to impress your guests and elevate your festive meal.

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Best Christmas Stuffed Turkey Breast

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Experience joy this holiday season with our Best Christmas Stuffed Turkey Breast recipe! Impress your guests today with this flavorful dish!

  • Author: Hailey
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2.753 pounds turkey breast
  • 4 ounces cream cheese
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 1/3 cup chopped fresh spinach
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
  • 1 teaspoon rosemary, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon thyme, finely chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, garlic, spinach, parsley, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  3. Carefully slice into the turkey breast to create a pocket; fill with the prepared mixture.
  4. Rub melted butter over the turkey and season with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  5. Bake for about 20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  6. Let it rest for five minutes before slicing.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 200g)
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 40g
  • Cholesterol: 110mg

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