This Christmas stuffed turkey breast is a true holiday treat! With tender meat filled with a tasty stuffing, it’s a real crowd-pleaser that smells amazing while cooking.
Getting the turkey ready is easier than you’d think! I love to serve this with some festive sides for that extra holiday cheer. Trust me, everyone will be coming back for seconds! 🎄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Turkey Breast: A large skin-on turkey breast provides great flavor and moisture. If you can’t find it, a boneless chicken breast works too but may require shorter cooking time.
Fresh Bread Cubes: Traditional stuffing uses fresh bread for the best texture. You can use any bread you like, such as sourdough, ciabatta, or even gluten-free bread if needed.
Dried Cranberries: They add a nice sweetness. Substitute with raisins or chopped dried apricots if you prefer. You can even use fresh apples for a different flavor twist.
Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, sage, and thyme offer wonderful aromas. If fresh herbs are out of season, dried versions work well but use less (about a third of the amount).
Butter: Unsalted butter gives a clean flavor. If dairy-free, use olive oil or coconut oil for sautéing.
How Do I Roll the Turkey Breast Properly?
Rolling the turkey breast is key to keeping the stuffing inside. Here’s how to do it right:
- Lay the turkey skin-side down on a clean surface.
- Using a sharp knife, slice horizontally through the thick part of the breast, making it flat but being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Place the filling carefully on the flattened turkey, leaving an inch around the edges.
- Starting from one end, gently roll it into a log, tucking the stuffing as you go.
- Secure with kitchen twine every 1.5 inches, ensuring the filling stays put.
A good roll makes for an evenly cooked turkey and a beautiful presentation when sliced.
What’s the Best Way to Keep the Turkey Moist While Roasting?
Keeping the turkey moist is crucial for a delicious meal. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by basting the turkey every 30 minutes with its own juices. This keeps the meat tender.
- Roast it skin-side up to allow the fat to drip into the turkey, naturally keeping it moist.
- If it looks too dry during roasting, drizzle a bit more broth over it to maintain moisture.
Letting it rest after cooking (for about 15 minutes) also helps redistribute the juices, ensuring every bite is flavorful!
Best Christmas Stuffed Turkey Breast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Turkey:
- 1 large skin-on turkey breast (about 3–4 pounds)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional, for glaze)
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey (optional, for glaze)
For The Stuffing:
- 4 cups fresh bread cubes (for stuffing)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh sage, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried sage)
- 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (plus additional sprigs for garnish)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth (plus more if needed)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes of preparation time and approximately 1 to 1.25 hours for roasting. Don’t forget to let the turkey rest for 15 minutes after cooking! Total time: around 2 hours.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Stuffing:
In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the chopped onion, celery, and garlic. Sauté until softened, which takes about 5 minutes. Afterward, transfer this mixture to a large bowl.
2. Mix the Stuffing Ingredients:
Add the bread cubes, dried cranberries, optional nuts, fresh parsley, sage, and thyme to the bowl. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, tossing the mixture until it’s moistened but not soggy. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, then set it aside.
3. Prepare the Turkey Breast:
Lay the turkey breast skin-side down on a clean surface. Carefully slice through the thickest part of the breast horizontally to create a long, flat piece (a butterflied breast). Don’t cut all the way through!
4. Fill the Turkey Breast:
Spread an even layer of the stuffing over the flattened turkey breast, making sure to leave about 1 inch near the edges uncovered.
5. Roll the Turkey:
Starting from one end, tightly roll the turkey breast around the stuffing into a log shape. Try to keep it as tight as possible!
6. Tie the Turkey Roll:
Using kitchen twine, tie the turkey roll at 1.5-inch intervals to keep the stuffing secure inside.
7. Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to preheat while you prepare the turkey for roasting.
8. Season the Outside:
Rub the outside of the turkey roll with olive oil and generously season with salt and pepper.
9. Glaze (Optional):
If desired, whisk together Dijon mustard and maple syrup or honey, and brush over the turkey for a flavorful glaze.
10. Roast the Turkey:
Place the turkey roll skin-side up in a roasting pan. Roast it for about 1 to 1.25 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the center using a meat thermometer. Make sure to baste occasionally with the pan juices to keep it nice and moist.
11. Let It Rest:
Once cooked, carefully remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
12. Slice and Serve:
Remove the kitchen twine, then slice into thick rounds to reveal the delightful stuffing inside. Serve it garnished with fresh thyme sprigs and add any pan drippings or gravy on top for additional flavor.
This recipe creates a juicy, flavorful centerpiece perfect for Christmas, with classic herb stuffing tucked inside the tender turkey breast that has a beautifully crisp and golden skin. Enjoy and happy holidays! 🎄
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! If turkey breast isn’t available, try using a chicken breast. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken.
Can I Prepare the Stuffing Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffing a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bring it to room temperature before spreading it onto the turkey breast.
How Do I Ensure the Turkey Stays Moist While Roasting?
Baste the turkey occasionally with the pan juices during roasting to keep it moist. Make sure to roast it skin-side up to allow the fat to keep the meat juicy!
What Should I Do With Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can enjoy them cold or reheat gently in the microwave or oven.
