Pioneer Woman Turkey Tenderloin Recipe

This turkey tenderloin is juicy, well-seasoned, and incredibly easy to cook!

A good sear at the start locks in moisture, so don’t skip that step.

I always pat the turkey dry before seasoning so the spices stick better and form a flavorful crust.

Using a meat thermometer is the best way to keep the turkey from drying out—pull it from the oven at 160°F and let it rest.

What I enjoy most about this recipe is how well the turkey holds onto the seasoning, making every bite just as good as the last.

For extra crisp edges, brush on a little butter during the last five minutes of roasting.

How to Make Pioneer Woman Turkey Tenderloin

Ingredients

• 2 lbs Turkey Tenderloins
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil
• 1 tsp Sage
• 1 tsp Thyme
• 1 tsp Paprika
• 1 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1 tsp Onion Powder
• 1 tsp Kosher Salt
• 1/2 tsp Black Pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 375°F.

If you have a convection oven, you might want to adjust the temperature.

Step 2:

Pat dry the turkey tenderloins with paper towels.

This helps the rub stick well.

Step 3:

In a small bowl, mix olive oil, sage, thyme, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and black pepper until combined.

Step 4:

Rub the spice mixture all over the turkey tenderloins.

You’ll want to coat both sides evenly.

Step 5:

Place the tenderloins on a baking sheet.

Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until internal temperature hits 165°F.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Keep it Moist

Basting the turkey tenderloins with a little olive oil halfway through cooking can enhance juiciness and add a nice sheen.

Check Temperature

Always use a meat thermometer to make sure the turkey reaches 165°F, ensuring it’s safely cooked without being dry.

Spice it Up

Feel free to add or substitute other spices you like, such as rosemary or lemon zest, for a different flavor profile.

Let it Rest

Allow the turkey to rest for at least five minutes before slicing.

This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat tender.

Make Ahead

If you’re short on time, this recipe can be prepped a day in advance.

Simply rub the spices and store the turkey in the fridge until ready to bake.

What to Serve with Pioneer Woman Turkey Tenderloin Recipe

Creamy Mashed Potatoes

When thinking about what pairs beautifully with turkey tenderloin, creamy mashed potatoes always come to mind.

Their buttery texture and smooth consistency make them an excellent companion for tender, juicy turkey.

Add a touch of garlic or herbs to the potatoes for an extra kick!

Tangy Cranberry Sauce

A classic pairing that adds a zing to the meal is tangy cranberry sauce.

The sweet-tart flavor brightens up every bite of turkey and complements the savory notes.

You can make it from scratch with fresh cranberries and a bit of orange zest.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts with a drizzle of balsamic glaze offer an unexpected yet delicious side dish.

The caramelized edges and nutty flavors of the sprouts provide a lovely contrast to the turkey tenderloin.

Try sprinkling some crispy bacon on top for added texture.

Sweet Potato Casserole

For a taste of holiday anytime, sweet potato casserole adds warmth to your meal.

The natural sweetness paired with a crunchy pecan topping can wonderfully round out the flavors of your turkey dish.

This side brings both sweetness and richness to the table.

Parmesan Risotto

The creamy, cheesy grains is a terrific accompaniment to the tenderness of the turkey.

Add a handful of mushrooms for an earthy twist that pairs well.

Variations and Substitutions

You can easily adjust this Pioneer Woman turkey tenderloin recipe to fit your taste and dietary needs.

Spice It Up

For a bolder flavor, try adding paprika, cayenne pepper, or smoked chipotle to the marinade.

These spices can give your turkey tenderloin an exciting kick without overwhelming the savory herb butter.

Citrus Twist

Adding a splash of lemon or lime juice can introduce a refreshing tangy note.

This pairs wonderfully with the herb butter and enhances the overall flavor profile.

Herb Alternatives

If you’re not a fan of certain herbs, you can swap rosemary or thyme for basil or oregano.

These adjustments contribute an appealing aroma that enriches the dish.

Gluten-Free Options

For those avoiding gluten, make sure to use gluten-free gravy or chicken soup.

Such substitutions allow you to enjoy this delicious recipe without compromising dietary preferences.

Vegetarian Twist

Consider replacing the turkey tenderloin with your favorite plant-based protein, like tofu or tempeh.

Properly seasoned, these alternatives provide a savory bite that complements the rest of the ingredients.

How to Store Leftover Turkey Tenderloin

Refrigeration

Storing leftover turkey tenderloin properly keeps it fresh and tasty for future meals.

After enjoying your meal, an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag is your best friend.

Place the tenderloin in the container or bag, and then store it in the refrigerator for up to three to four days.

Freezing

If you’re planning on keeping it longer, freezing is a smart option.

Make sure the turkey is thoroughly cooked and cooled before freezing to lock in all the flavors.

When freezing, use a ziplock bag or any airtight freezer-safe container, and remember to label it with the date.

This helps you track how long it’s been in the freezer and plan your next delicious meal.

Always try to squeeze out as much air as possible from the bag to prevent freezer burn.

Freezer storage can keep your turkey tenderloin tasty for up to three months.

So, you’re set for another delicious meal when you’re ready to revisit those flavors!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not Giving Enough Time to Defrost

It’s tempting to rush the thawing process, especially when you’re excited about cooking.

Make sure you thaw the turkey tenderloin in the fridge, planning 24 hours for every four to five pounds.

Rushing this step can lead to uneven cooking, which is never fun.

Overcooking the Tenderloin

Keep a close eye on the cooking time!

Remember, turkey tenderloin is lean and can overcook quickly, resulting in dryness.

Using a meat thermometer to check when it reaches 165°F is a must.

Skipping the Seasoning

Don’t underestimate the power of a good spice mix.

A common mistake is skipping this step or not using enough.

Mix things up with garlic powder, paprika, and your favorite herbs to really make the flavors pop!