Best Christmas Stuffed Turkey Breast Recipe

If you’re hunting for the ultimate holiday centerpiece, this Best Christmas Stuffed Turkey Breast Recipe is everything you’ve dreamed of and more. Imagine tender, juicy turkey breast rolled around a luscious filling of cream cheese, spinach, crispy bacon, and fragrant herbs that burst with festive flavor in every bite. It’s the kind of dish that turns dinner into a joyful celebration, impresses guests, and fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. Whether it’s your first time making it or you consider yourself a holiday chef, this recipe is a timeless gem that will elevate your Christmas dinner to extraordinary heights.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is the first step to creating magic in the kitchen. These simple but essential ingredients work together beautifully to create a dish that’s rich in flavor, vibrant in color, and perfectly balanced in texture.

• 2.75-3 pounds turkey breast or tenderloins: The lean, tender base that holds all the delicious filling inside.
• 4 ounces softened cream cheese: Adds creamy richness that complements the savory notes perfectly.
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced: Provides a fragrant punch and savory depth.
• 1/3 cup fresh spinach, chopped: Brings a fresh, green vibrancy and slight earthiness.
• 1/3 cup bacon pieces, chopped: Crispy bits that add smoky, salty goodness.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances flavors and enhances the taste.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: A subtle heat to elevate the dish.
• 1 tablespoon parsley, finely chopped: Bright and fresh herbal notes.
• 1 teaspoon rosemary, finely chopped: Adds piney, aromatic winter vibes.
• 1 teaspoon thyme, finely chopped: Earthy undertones that perfectly complement turkey.
• 2 tablespoons melted butter: For brushing at the end to create a glossy, flavorful finish.
• 1 tablespoon fresh herbs, chopped (additional parsley, rosemary, thyme): A fresh burst of herbaceous aroma.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances garlic flavor without overpowering.
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a warm, subtle smokiness and beautiful color.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: A second touch of spice for the outer rub.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Helps season the turkey roll exterior perfectly.

How to Make Best Christmas Stuffed Turkey Breast Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Turkey

Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and greasing a small sheet pan or roasting dish to prevent sticking. Next, take the turkey breast and place it inside a Ziploc bag or between two layers of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, carefully pound it down to about 1/4 inch thickness. This step ensures even cooking throughout and makes rolling the turkey breast a breeze, setting the stage for a flawless presentation.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a medium bowl, stir together softened cream cheese, chopped spinach, minced garlic, crispy bacon pieces, salt, pepper, rosemary, thyme, and parsley until fully combined. The filling should be flavorful, creamy, and dotted with fresh herb and bacon bits, creating a wonderful balance of textures and tastes that will excite your palate. Be sure to leave a half-inch border around the turkey breast when spreading the filling to keep it neatly inside during rolling.

Step 3: Roll and Secure the Turkey

Carefully roll the turkey breast lengthwise, starting from one long edge, rolling it into a tight, compact log. Then secure it using toothpicks or tie it gently with baker’s twine—both work wonderfully to keep everything together while it bakes. Transfer the rolled turkey into your prepared pan, ready to be seasoned and baked to perfection.

Step 4: Season and Bake the Turkey

Mix together garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper for the seasoning rub. Generously coat the outside of your turkey roll with this spice blend to add warmth, color, and that irresistible holiday aroma. Pop the turkey in the oven and allow it to bake for 15 to 25 minutes depending on size, until a meat thermometer inserted into the center reads about 160°F. This timing helps achieve the ideal juicy, tender texture.

Step 5: Broil for Browning

Switch the oven to broil and cook the turkey breast for an additional 5 minutes, or until the outside reaches a gorgeous golden-brown color with crispy edges. Keep a close eye to prevent burning, and double-check that the internal temperature remains around 160°F; it will continue to rise slightly during resting, finishing safely at 165°F.

Step 6: Rest, Slice, and Serve

Remove your cooked turkey breast roll from the oven and transfer it to a cutting board. Allow it to rest for 5 to 10 minutes to let those juicy flavors settle and keep the meat tender and moist. Meanwhile, whisk melted butter with freshly chopped herbs and use a brush to generously coat the top of the turkey roll. Slice into beautiful rounds and serve immediately for a stunning, delicious centerpiece your guests will rave about.

How to Serve Best Christmas Stuffed Turkey Breast Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra fresh herbs like parsley or thyme on top adds a burst of color and a fresh aroma that complements the richness of the turkey roll. Consider a light drizzle of cranberry sauce or a dollop of savory gravy to bring out the full holiday spirit in every bite.

Side Dishes

This recipe shines alongside classic Christmas sides such as roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze, creamy mashed potatoes, or sweet roasted carrots. For a lighter option, a crisp winter salad with pomegranate seeds and walnuts adds a fresh, tangy contrast that balances the richness of the stuffed turkey perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice your turkey breast roll into medallions and fan them out on a festive platter lined with fresh herbs or citrus slices. Serve on a wooden cutting board with small bowls of dips or sauces to let everyone customize their experience. This presentation not only looks beautiful but invites conversation and sharing, just like the holidays should.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftovers fresh by wrapping the sliced turkey tightly in aluminum foil or placing them in an airtight container. Stored properly in the refrigerator, they’ll stay juicy and flavorful for up to 3 to 4 days—perfect for enjoying quick, delicious holiday lunches the next day.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy the Best Christmas Stuffed Turkey Breast Recipe at another time, freezing is a great option. Wrap the cooked and cooled turkey tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or store in freezer-safe containers. It will hold well in the freezer for up to 2 months, making meal prep for busy winter days effortless.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm slices in a covered dish in the oven at 325°F until heated through to avoid drying out the turkey. Alternatively, microwaving covered with a damp paper towel works for a quick option, just be careful not to overheat and dry the meat. Brushing with a little broth or butter before reheating helps keep it moist and tasty.

FAQs

Can I use turkey tenderloins instead of a whole breast for this recipe?

Absolutely! Turkey tenderloins are perfect for this recipe because they’re easier to pound and roll. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, since tenderloins tend to cook faster than a whole breast.

Is it okay to prepare the stuffing the day before?

Yes, you can prepare the filling a day ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator. This makes rolling and assembling on the day of cooking quicker and less stressful, especially during busy holiday preparations.

What can I substitute for cream cheese if I want a lighter option?

Greek yogurt cheese or ricotta can be used as lighter alternatives, though the texture and creaminess of the filling will vary slightly. Just drain the ricotta well to avoid excess moisture in the filling.

How do I know when the turkey is fully cooked?

The best way is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F in the thickest part after resting. This ensures your turkey is safe to eat while staying juicy and tender.

Can I add other ingredients to the stuffing?

Definitely! Feel free to add mushrooms, chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or other herbs to customize your stuffing. Just keep the mixture moist and easy to spread so it rolls nicely without breaking.

Final Thoughts

If you want to bring warmth, festive spirit, and incredible flavor to your holiday table, you absolutely must try the Best Christmas Stuffed Turkey Breast Recipe. It’s not just a meal, but a celebration wrapped in every bite — simple to make yet impressive enough to wow friends and family. Dive into this recipe, and make your Christmas dinner truly unforgettable!

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