Baked Turkey Loin
Baked turkey loin is a dish that transforms an everyday poultry option into an extraordinary dinner choice. It's simple yet stylish, providing a delicious way to enjoy turkey without the fuss often reserved for holiday feasts. Tender and flavorful, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or meal prep for the week ahead.
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Meat thermometer
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
- Here’s how I like to break down the ingredients you’ll need for this succulent baked turkey loin:
- - 1.5 pounds turkey tenderloins
- - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- - ½ teaspoon onion powder
- - ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- - ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- - ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- - ½ teaspoon paprika
- - ½ teaspoon oregano
- - ¼ teaspoon salt
- - 1 tablespoon honey for a hint of sweetness
- - ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional, for a little kick
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. This step is crucial for achieving that wonderfully golden exterior while keeping the inside juicy. While your oven warms up, gather all your ingredients and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will save you time on cleanup later.
Step 2: Mix the Spice Rub
- In a mixing bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, oregano, black pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, and salt. Add the honey, mixing until the spices are well incorporated with a little sweetness. This homemade rub will coat the turkey, giving it not just flavor but a mouthwatering aroma.
Step 3: Prepare the Turkey
- Take the turkey tenderloins and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the spices stick better and promotes a nice sear. Rub the spice mixture on all sides of the turkey. Don’t be shy—make sure to cover every inch to maximize flavor.
Step 4: Assemble Everything on the Baking Sheet
- Lay the seasoned turkey tenderloins on your lined baking sheet. Cut the unsalted butter into small pats and place them atop the turkey. The butter will melt and baste the meat as it cooks, keeping it moist and adding richness.
Step 5: Bake and Check for Doneness
- Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The size of your turkey loin will affect the cooking time, so using a meat thermometer will help you know exactly when it’s done.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
- If you can find it, opt for non-GMO or organic turkey for a healthier meal.
- Leftover turkey can easily be transformed into sandwiches or salads.
- For a more intense flavor, let the seasoned turkey rest in the fridge for a couple of hours or overnight.
- If you'd like a lower-fat version, you can reduce or eliminate the butter and use olive oil instead.
Nutrition
Calories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 1gProtein: 40gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 4gTrans Fat: 0.2gCholesterol: 91mgSodium: 450mgPotassium: 19mgFiber: 0.3gSugar: 0.1g
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!