Best Christmas Stuffed Turkey Breast

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dish to impress your family this holiday season, then you’ve come to the right place! My Best Christmas Stuffed Turkey Breast is an absolute favorite in my household. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate, filled with creamy goodness and fragrant herbs. This recipe captures the spirit of Christmas dinners, making it perfect for both festive gatherings and cozy weeknights alike.

What I love most about this dish is how simple it is to prepare while still being incredibly delicious. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can create something truly special that everyone will rave about. Whether it’s a holiday feast or just a comforting dinner at home, this turkey breast will surely become a staple in your meal rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 40 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy evenings!
• Family-Friendly: The flavors are mild yet satisfying, pleasing even the pickiest of eaters.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the stuffing ahead of time and assemble it when you’re ready to cook.
• Flavorful and Juicy: The cream cheese and fresh herbs keep the turkey moist and bursting with flavor.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: While it’s great for Christmas, it’s also perfect for Sunday dinners or family gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key to achieving that delicious flavor in your Best Christmas Stuffed Turkey Breast. Don’t worry; these are all simple, wholesome items you can easily find at your local grocery store. Let’s dive into what you’ll need!

For the Stuffing

• 2.75-3 pounds turkey breast or tenderloins
• 4 ounces softened cream cheese
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
• 1/3 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/3 cup bacon pieces, 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 the 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

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Swap the protein: Use chicken breast instead of turkey for a different twist!
• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans to give the stuffing an extra crunch.
• Go vegetarian: Leave out the bacon pieces and add mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
• Change up the greens: Kale or Swiss chard can be used instead of spinach for added nutrition.

How to Make Best Christmas Stuffed Turkey Breast

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Start by combining your softened cream cheese with minced garlic in a mixing bowl. This step is crucial because it creates a creamy base that binds all your flavors together. Add in chopped spinach and bacon pieces (if using) along with salt, black pepper, parsley, rosemary, and thyme. Mix until everything is well combined; this filling will bring richness to our turkey!

Step 2: Stuff the Turkey Breast

Carefully slice open the turkey breast to create a pocket for your filling. It’s important not to cut all the way through—just enough to hold that luscious mixture! Spoon the filling into each breast evenly. Once filled, secure them with toothpicks or kitchen twine so that they hold their shape during cooking.

Step 3: Season and Cook

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush melted butter over the stuffed turkey breasts and sprinkle them with additional garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This seasoning will help develop that golden-brown crust we all love! Place them in a baking dish and roast them for about 20 minutes or until cooked through.

Step 4: Rest and Serve

Once done cooking, let your turkey rest for about five minutes before serving. Resting allows those juices to redistribute within the meat, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful! Slice into thick pieces and share with family and friends at your next holiday gathering. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Best Christmas Stuffed Turkey Breast

Making the perfect stuffed turkey breast can be a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll elevate your dish to new heights!

• Choose the Right Turkey Breast: Opt for a fresh or thawed turkey breast instead of frozen. This ensures even cooking and a juicier final product.
• Don’t Skip the Cream Cheese: Using softened cream cheese in your stuffing not only adds creaminess but also helps keep the filling moist during cooking.
• Season Generously: Be generous with your herbs and spices. They infuse the turkey and stuffing with flavor, making each bite deliciously aromatic.
• Let It Rest: After cooking, allow the turkey breast to rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices, resulting in a more flavorful and tender meat.
• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to get creative! Try adding nuts or dried fruits to the stuffing for an extra layer of texture and flavor that complements the savory notes beautifully.

How to Serve Best Christmas Stuffed Turkey Breast

Presenting your stuffed turkey breast can be as festive as the holiday itself! Here are some wonderful ideas for serving this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley, rosemary, or thyme on top adds a vibrant pop of color and a hint of freshness.
• Cranberry Sauce: A dollop of homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce provides a sweet-tart contrast that balances the savory flavors perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes tossed in olive oil and roasted until caramelized make a colorful side that pairs beautifully with turkey.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic give comfort alongside your stuffed turkey breast. Their buttery texture complements the savory stuffing perfectly.
• Green Bean Almondine: Fresh green beans sautéed with almonds provide a crunchy texture and bright flavor contrast that enhances your holiday plate.
• Stuffing or Dressing: A simple herb stuffing made from bread cubes, vegetable broth, onions, and celery can serve as a fantastic side that echoes the flavors of your main dish.

With these tips and serving ideas, you’re well on your way to hosting a memorable Christmas dinner centered around your Best Christmas Stuffed Turkey Breast. Enjoy every moment of this festive season!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Best Christmas Stuffed Turkey Breast recipe is not just a holiday delight; it also shines as a fantastic option for meal prep. You can prepare it in advance, making your holiday cooking a breeze!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffed turkey breast to cool completely.
• Wrap the leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• After cooking, let the turkey breast cool to room temperature.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, ensuring no air is trapped.
• Label and date the package before freezing for up to 3 months.
• For best results, slice the turkey before freezing for easy portioning later.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen turkey breast in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
• Place the turkey in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through.
• If reheating slices, you can use a microwave on low power, making sure to cover them to retain moisture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making the Best Christmas Stuffed Turkey Breast!

How can I enhance the flavor of my Best Christmas Stuffed Turkey Breast?

To add extra flavor, consider marinating the turkey breast overnight with herbs and spices. You could also incorporate more fresh vegetables into the stuffing mixture or experiment with different cheese varieties.

Can I make the Best Christmas Stuffed Turkey Breast without cream cheese?

Absolutely! You can substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream or blended silken tofu for a similar creamy texture without using animal-derived products.

What sides pair well with the Best Christmas Stuffed Turkey Breast?

Delicious sides include roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, or a fresh green salad. These options complement the flavors of the stuffed turkey beautifully!

Is there an alternative to bacon pieces in this recipe?

Yes! You can use plant-based bacon or sautéed mushrooms for added depth of flavor without using pork products.

Final Thoughts

This Best Christmas Stuffed Turkey Breast is truly something special that brings warmth and comfort to your holiday table. With its herb-infused filling and juicy meat, it’s bound to be a hit at any festive gathering. I hope you enjoy making this dish as much as I do! Don’t hesitate to share your experience or variations you try; I would love to hear from you. Happy cooking!