Amazing Spiced Rubbed Turkey Tenderloin 4 Ways

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Spiced rubbed turkey tenderloin has become my go-to for a weeknight meal that feels special without all the fuss. I remember the first time I tried making it; I was looking for a quick and flavorful dinner, and this seasoned turkey tenderloin recipe delivered beyond my wildest dreams. The aroma of the spices filling my kitchen was incredible, and the juicy, tender meat with that perfectly seasoned crust was a revelation. This easy spiced turkey tenderloin recipe is now a staple in my rotation. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Spiced Rubbed Turkey Tenderloin

This recipe is a total winner for so many reasons:

• Incredible Flavor: The spice rub creates a wonderfully savory and aromatic crust that you’ll adore.
• Super Quick Prep: You can whip up the spice blend and get the turkey ready in just about 10 minutes.
• Health-Conscious: Turkey tenderloin is a lean protein, making this a guilt-free option for a healthy meal.
• Budget-Friendly: Turkey tenderloin is often more affordable than other proteins, making this a great value.
• Family Approved: Even picky eaters will love the tender texture and mild, delicious spices in this seasoned turkey tenderloin recipe.
• Versatile: It’s a fantastic base for a quick weeknight dinner or can be part of a more elaborate meal.
• Impressive Results: It looks and tastes like you spent hours, but this seasoned turkey tenderloin recipe is truly effortless.

Ingredients for Spiced Rubbed Turkey Tenderloin

Gather these simple ingredients for a truly flavorful meal. The magic happens with this blend, creating a wonderful garlic herb rubbed turkey tenderloin. I love how the paprika gives it a beautiful color and a hint of sweetness, while the dried herbs provide that classic savory aroma.

• 1.5 lbs turkey tenderloin – make sure it’s trimmed of any silver skin
• 2 tbsp olive oil – for searing and helping the rub adhere
• 1 tbsp paprika – gives a lovely color and mild flavor
• 1 tsp garlic powder – essential for that savory depth
• 1 tsp onion powder – complements the garlic nicely
• 1 tsp dried thyme – adds an earthy note
• 1 tsp dried rosemary – for that beautiful piney fragrance
• 1 tsp salt – to enhance all the flavors
• 0.5 tsp black pepper – for a little warmth
• 0.5 tsp mustard powder – adds a subtle tang

How to Make Spiced Rubbed Turkey Tenderloin

1. Step 1: First things first, let’s get that oven preheated to 400°F (200°C). While it’s warming up, take your turkey tenderloin and pat it nice and dry with some paper towels. This step is crucial for getting a good sear!
2. Step 2: Now, let’s make that amazing spice rub. In a small bowl, combine 1 tbsp paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1 tsp dried rosemary, 1 tsp salt, 0.5 tsp black pepper, and 0.5 tsp mustard powder. Mix it all up until it’s beautifully blended.
3. Step 3: Take that incredible spice mixture and rub it all over the turkey tenderloin, making sure every bit is coated. You want that flavor to really infuse into the meat.
4. Step 4: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. You’ll know it’s ready when the oil shimmers. Carefully place the spiced turkey tenderloin into the hot skillet.
5. Step 5: Sear the turkey for about 2-3 minutes per side. This is where the magic starts, creating a lovely brown crust. This pan-seared spiced turkey tenderloin step adds so much depth of flavor.
6. Step 6: Once it’s nicely browned on all sides, carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven.
7. Step 7: Let the turkey roast for 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when you insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part. This ensures your baked spiced turkey tenderloin is perfectly cooked.
8. Step 8: Once it’s reached temperature, remove the skillet from the oven. Carefully take the turkey tenderloin out of the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board for 5-10 minutes. This resting period is super important for juicy meat!
9. Step 9: While the turkey rests, we’ll make a quick gravy. Reduce the heat under the skillet to medium. Add 1 tbsp butter and let it melt.
10. Step 10: Whisk in 1 tbsp all-purpose flour with the melted butter to create a roux, cooking for about a minute.
11. Step 11: Gradually whisk in 1 cup chicken broth, scraping up all those delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until it thickens nicely. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
12. Step 12: Slice your beautifully rested spiced turkey tenderloin and spoon that luscious gravy over the top. Enjoy your perfectly cooked meal!

Pro Tips for the Best Spiced Rubbed Turkey Tenderloin

Want to elevate your spiced rubbed turkey tenderloin even further? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make a huge difference. These tips will ensure your turkey is always tender, flavorful, and perfectly cooked.

• Don’t skip patting the turkey dry; it’s essential for a good sear and a flavorful crust.
• Let the turkey rest for at least 5-10 minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender result.
• For an even deeper flavor, you can prepare the spice rub and coat the turkey a few hours ahead of time and refrigerate it.
• If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, you can sear the turkey on the stovetop and then transfer it to a baking dish before putting it in the oven.

What’s the secret to perfect Spiced Rubbed Turkey Tenderloin?

The secret to a perfect Spiced Rubbed Turkey Tenderloin lies in the balance of the spice blend and the cooking technique. Using the best spice rub for turkey tenderloin, combined with searing first and then roasting, locks in moisture and creates a delicious crust. For more information on cooking techniques, you can check out resources on how to sear meat.

Can I make Spiced Rubbed Turkey Tenderloin ahead of time?

Yes, you absolutely can! You can prepare the spice rub and coat the turkey tenderloin up to 24 hours in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making your weeknight cooking even easier. You can learn more about food preparation timelines on the FoodSafety.gov website.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Spiced Rubbed Turkey Tenderloin?

A common mistake is overcooking the turkey, which can lead to dryness. Always use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Also, don’t forget to let it rest; skipping this step will result in less juicy meat.

Best Ways to Serve Spiced Rubbed Turkey Tenderloin

This versatile dish pairs wonderfully with so many things! For a truly flavorful turkey tenderloin recipe experience, I love serving it alongside creamy mashed potatoes and roasted Brussels sprouts. The earthy notes of the sprouts and the creamy texture of the potatoes are the perfect complement to the spiced turkey. Another fantastic option is a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette and some crusty bread to soak up any extra pan juices. It’s a complete meal that feels both comforting and elegant.

Nutrition Facts for Spiced Rubbed Turkey Tenderloin

Here’s a look at the nutritional breakdown for this delicious dish, per serving:

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 450mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more details on nutritional information, you can visit the MyFitnessPal website.

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Spiced Rubbed Turkey Tenderloin

Leftovers are fantastic, making this a great quick spiced turkey tenderloin meal for busy nights. Once your delicious Spiced Rubbed Turkey Tenderloin has cooled completely, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can definitely freeze it! Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and they’ll be good in the freezer for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, the best way to reheat is gently. For refrigerated portions, you can warm them in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 10-15 minutes. If reheating from frozen, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator first before using either of these methods.

Frequently Asked Questions About Spiced Rubbed Turkey Tenderloin

What is the best way to cook spiced turkey tenderloin?

The best way to cook Spiced Rubbed Turkey Tenderloin involves a combination of searing and roasting. Searing first creates a beautiful crust and locks in juices, while roasting ensures it cooks through evenly. This method ensures a tender and flavorful result every time you prepare it.

Can I use different spices for my Spiced Rubbed Turkey Tenderloin?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize the spice blend to your liking. While this recipe uses a classic savory mix, you could try adding a pinch of cayenne for heat, smoked paprika for a smoky flavor, or even a touch of cumin. Experimenting is part of the fun when learning how to cook spiced turkey tenderloin!

How long should I rest the Spiced Rubbed Turkey Tenderloin after cooking?

It’s crucial to let your Spiced Rubbed Turkey Tenderloin rest for at least 5 to 10 minutes after removing it from the oven. This resting period allows the natural juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring that every slice is incredibly moist and tender. Skipping this step can lead to a drier outcome.

What sides pair well with this Spiced Rubbed Turkey Tenderloin?

This versatile dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Creamy mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables like carrots and parsnips, a fresh green salad, or steamed asparagus are all excellent choices. The savory notes of the turkey are enhanced by these simple yet delicious accompaniments.

Variations of Spiced Rubbed Turkey Tenderloin You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, don’t be afraid to get creative! There are so many ways to switch up your Spiced Rubbed Turkey Tenderloin. For a different flavor profile, try a Mediterranean twist by adding oregano and lemon zest to the rub, creating a wonderfully bright and flavorful turkey tenderloin. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, simply swap the all-purpose flour in the gravy for a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. You can also achieve a fantastic herb crusted turkey tenderloin by adding fresh chopped herbs like parsley and chives to the spice mix. For an even quicker meal, consider pan-searing it entirely and skipping the oven, though this might require slightly adjusted cooking times to ensure it’s cooked through and remains juicy spiced turkey tenderloin.

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