Holidays Special with a Stuffed Turkey Breast Roll

When it comes to holiday meals, turkey is often the star of the show. However, if you’re seeking a new way to enjoy this classic dish without the hassle of roasting a whole bird, a stuffed turkey breast roll is the perfect solution. This recipe combines the savory flavors of turkey, seasoned stuffing, and delicious fillings, all rolled up into a visually stunning and easy-to-prepare dish. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, this stuffed turkey breast roll will surely impress your guests.

Why You Should Try Stuffed Turkey Breast Roll

A stuffed turkey breast roll offers a beautiful alternative to a whole roast turkey, especially when you’re short on time or cooking for a smaller group. Not only is this recipe more manageable, but it also guarantees every bite is packed with flavor. The roll can be stuffed with various fillings, including seasoned bread crumbs, sausage, herbs, and even fruits like cranberries to add a sweet contrast. Plus, the turkey remains tender and juicy, unlike traditional roasted turkey that can sometimes dry out.

Benefits of Stuffed Turkey Breast Roll:

• Easier to Prepare: Compared to roasting an entire turkey, the stuffed turkey breast roll is much quicker and more hands-on. It roasts in about an hour, saving you time and energy.
• Perfect for Smaller Groups: If you’re not cooking for a crowd, this recipe is perfect for a smaller gathering. It provides all the flavors of a traditional turkey dinner without the excess.
• Customizable: You can fill the turkey breast with whatever ingredients you prefer, from sausage and herbs to vegetables and fruit, making it a versatile dish for all tastes.
• Great Make-Ahead Meal: You can prepare the stuffed turkey breast roll up to two days ahead of time, making it a stress-free dish for busy days.

Ingredients You Will Need for Stuffed Turkey Breast Roll

To make a stuffed turkey breast roll, you’ll need just a few ingredients. This list includes the basic elements for the turkey roll and stuffing, but you can customize it to fit your preferences.

For the Turkey Roll:

• 4 large boneless turkey breast pieces (about 2.8 pounds)
• 10-12 large prosciutto slices (or another thinly sliced cured meat like pancetta)

For the Stuffing:

• 100g (scant 2 cups) fresh breadcrumbs (sourdough or any bread of your choice)
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 shallots (or 1 medium onion, chopped)
• 240g (8 ½ oz) chorizo (diced)
• 60g (scant ½ cup) dried cranberries
• 8 fresh sage leaves
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried mixed herbs (e.g., thyme, rosemary, or herbes de Provence)
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 pork sausages (about 7 oz, casing removed)

Optional for added flavor:

• 1 tsp orange zest (adds a citrusy brightness to the stuffing)
• A handful of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for extra texture.

How to Make Stuffed Turkey Breast Roll

Step 1: Prepare the Stuffing

1. Blitz the bread: Use a food processor to blitz your bread into fresh breadcrumbs. Add sage leaves, cranberries, shallots, and salt and seasonings to the processor, blending everything together.
2. Cook the stuffing: Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bread mixture and sauté until golden brown. Stir in the diced chorizo and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes. Allow the stuffing to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Turkey

1. Butterfly the turkey: Lay the boneless turkey breasts flat on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, slice along the side of each breast without cutting all the way through. Open up the breast to butterfly it, then cover with cling film.
2. Pound the turkey: Use a rolling pin to gently pound the turkey breasts flat. This helps create an even surface for rolling.

Step 3: Assemble the Turkey Roll

1. Layer the prosciutto: Cover a clean surface with cling film or parchment paper. Lay the prosciutto slices, slightly overlapping, to form a large sheet.
2. Add the turkey: Place the flattened turkey breasts on top of the prosciutto, overlapping any gaps. Pound the turkey flat once more to ensure evenness.
3. Spread the stuffing: Evenly spread the cooled stuffing mixture over the turkey.
4. Roll the turkey: Use the cling film or parchment paper to help you roll the turkey into a log, similar to how you would roll a Swiss roll. Once rolled, tie the log with kitchen twine at intervals to secure it.

Step 4: Roast the Turkey Roll

1. Prepare the roasting pan: Spread sliced onions and potatoes over the bottom of a large roasting pan. Place the turkey roll on top.
2. Cook the roll: Loosely cover the pan with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 40 minutes. After 40 minutes, uncover the pan and continue roasting for another 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the turkey reaches 160°F (70°C) and the juices run clear.
3. Rest the roll: Once done, remove the roll from the oven and let it rest for 20 minutes, loosely covered with foil. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist turkey.

Step 5: Serve

1. Slice and serve: After resting, remove the twine and slice the turkey roll into thick slices. Serve with your favorite sides such as mashed potatoes, braised red cabbage, or roasted vegetables.

Cooking Tips for the Perfect Stuffed Turkey Breast Roll

• Use a meat thermometer: To ensure your turkey is cooked perfectly, use an instant-read thermometer. This avoids overcooking the turkey and ensures it stays juicy.
• Cool the stuffing: Before adding the stuffing to the turkey, make sure it has cooled down completely. Hot stuffing can partially cook the turkey before it’s ready, leading to uneven cooking.
• Flavor variations: Feel free to experiment with different stuffing ingredients. Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor, or try a touch of cheese like grated Parmesan for richness.

Creative Variations for Stuffed Turkey Breast Roll

While the basic recipe for stuffed turkey breast roll is absolutely delicious, it can also be customized to fit various tastes, dietary restrictions, or flavor preferences. Here are a few variations that might just elevate your next meal:

1. Vegetarian Stuffed Turkey Roll

If you want a vegetarian version of this dish, swap the sausage and chorizo for ingredients like wild rice, mushrooms, or a variety of roasted vegetables. For a cheesy twist, add ricotta or cream cheese into the stuffing for extra creaminess.

2. Sweet and Savory Stuffing

Try using apple slices or pear chunks in the stuffing for a sweet and savory contrast. Pairing fruit with herbs like thyme and sage creates a refreshing twist. This variation pairs wonderfully with cinnamon-spiced gravy for a cozy, festive feel.

3. Mediterranean Twist

For a Mediterranean-style turkey roll, use spinach, feta cheese, and olives in place of traditional stuffing. Adding garlic and oregano will infuse the turkey with flavors typical of Mediterranean cuisine. This can serve as a perfect dish for summer gatherings or even a light holiday meal.

4. Spicy Turkey Roll

If you’re looking for a bit of heat, try adding jalapeños, chili flakes, or even spicy sausage to the stuffing. Pair it with a cooling sour cream sauce or avocado for a great balance.

5. Gluten-Free Stuffing

For those who follow a gluten-free diet, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or rice for a similar texture. Additionally, use gluten-free sausage or any other gluten-free filling for the turkey roll.

Storing and Reheating Stuffed Turkey Breast Roll

One of the best things about this recipe is that it makes great leftovers. You can store your stuffed turkey breast roll and enjoy it for a couple of days or even freeze it for later. Here’s how:

Storing Leftovers:

1. Refrigeration: Allow the turkey roll to cool completely before storing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
2. Freezing: If you plan on freezing the roll, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating:

1. Oven Method: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the turkey roll on a baking sheet, cover it loosely with foil, and heat for 15-20 minutes or until fully heated through.
2. Microwave Method: For a quicker option, slice the leftover turkey roll and microwave it on a microwave-safe plate for 2-3 minutes or until hot. Keep in mind that the oven method helps preserve the texture better.

FAQs On Stuffed Turkey Breast Roll

What is the difference between turkey roll and turkey breast?

A turkey breast refers to the meat from the turkey’s chest, often sold as a whole breast or in smaller portions. It is typically boneless and skinless. On the other hand, a turkey roll (often called a stuffed turkey roll) is made by rolling a turkey breast (sometimes along with other ingredients) around a stuffing, herbs, or fillings before roasting. A turkey roll usually includes a filling and is rolled into a cylindrical shape, offering a different presentation and flavor profile compared to a simple turkey breast.

What to serve with stuffed turkey breast?

Stuffed turkey breast pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with:

• Mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes
• Crispy Brussels sprouts or roasted carrots
• Gravy made from the turkey drippings
• Cranberry sauce for a sweet and tart contrast
• Braised red cabbage for a tangy twist
• Steamed green beans or sautéed spinach for a lighter side These sides complement the rich, savory flavor of the stuffed turkey breast and round out your meal.

How long do you cook a rolled turkey breast per kg?

For a rolled turkey breast, you should cook it for about 20 minutes per 450g (1 lb). This ensures the turkey is cooked thoroughly without becoming dry. Therefore, for a 1 kg (2.2 lbs) turkey roll, it should be roasted for approximately 40 minutes. Always use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 70°C (160°F) for safe consumption.

How many people will a 3kg rolled turkey feed?

A 3 kg (6.6 lbs) stuffed turkey roll typically serves about 6 to 8 people. However, this depends on the size of the servings and what other side dishes you are serving. If you’re planning on larger portions or serving fewer sides, it might serve fewer people.

How do you cook stuffing?

To cook stuffing, follow these basic steps:

1. Prepare the stuffing: In a bowl, combine your stuffing base (usually breadcrumbs or cubed bread) with seasonings like herbs, onions, garlic, and vegetables. You can add meat, nuts, or dried fruit for additional flavor and texture.
2. Moisten with broth: Slowly add chicken or vegetable broth to the stuffing mixture, stirring until the bread is evenly moistened but not soggy. Season with salt, pepper, and any other spices you prefer.
3. Cook the stuffing:
   • For stovetop stuffing: Heat butter in a skillet, then cook the stuffing mixture until it’s golden brown and heated through.
   • For baked stuffing: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, cover it with foil, and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes, uncovering it for the last 10 minutes to brown the top.
4. Serve: Once the stuffing is cooked and crispy on top, it’s ready to be served alongside your stuffed turkey breast.

Stuffed Turkey Breast Roll Recipe Card

Ingredients:

For the Stuffed Turkey Roll:

• 4 large boneless turkey breast pieces (about 1.3 kg or 2.8 lbs)
• 10-12 large prosciutto slices (or any thinly sliced cured meat like pancetta)

For the Stuffing:

• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 100g (2 cups) fresh breadcrumbs (sourdough or any bread of your choice)
• 3 shallots (or 1 medium onion, chopped)
• 240g (8 ½ oz) chorizo (diced)
• 60g (½ cup) dried cranberries
• 8 fresh sage leaves
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried mixed herbs (e.g., thyme, rosemary, or herbes de Provence)
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 pork sausages (about 200g or 7oz), casing removed

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Stuffing:
   • Blitz the bread into fresh breadcrumbs using a food processor. Add the sage leaves, cranberries, shallots, salt, and seasoning, and blitz again until combined.
   • Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bread mixture and sauté for a few minutes until the breadcrumbs are golden. Stir in the diced chorizo and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes. Allow the stuffing to cool completely.
2. Prepare the Turkey:
   • Lay the boneless turkey breasts flat on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to slice along one side of each breast, making a butterfly cut, and open it like a book. Cover the turkey with cling film and gently pound with a rolling pin to flatten it out evenly.
3. Assemble the Turkey Roll:
   • Lay prosciutto slices on a clean surface, slightly overlapping them to form a large sheet.
   • Place the flattened turkey pieces on top of the prosciutto, overlapping any gaps. Pound the turkey flat if necessary.
   • Spread the cooled stuffing evenly over the turkey.
   • Roll the turkey tightly using the cling film or parchment paper to help form a log. Tie the log with kitchen twine at intervals to secure it.
4. Roast the Turkey Roll:
   • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread sliced onions and potatoes over the bottom of a roasting pan. Place the turkey roll on top.
   • Roast the turkey, loosely covered with foil, for 40 minutes. Then, remove the foil and roast for another 20 minutes or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center reads 160°F (70°C). The juices should run clear.
   • Rest the turkey for 20 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes:

• You can make the turkey roll ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to two days before cooking.
• For a different flavor, substitute the chorizo with sausage or add roasted vegetables like mushrooms or peppers to the stuffing.
• To make the dish even more flavorful, try adding a touch of orange zest or a handful of nuts to the stuffing.

Nutritional Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 381 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Protein: 26g
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
• Monounsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 1g
• Cholesterol: 84mg
• Sodium: 883mg
• Potassium: 155mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 6g
• Vitamin A: 181IU
• Vitamin C: 1mg
• Calcium: 34mg
• Iron: 2mg

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour

Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes

Method: Roasting

Cuisine: American

Servings: 8

Calories: 381 kcal per serving

Yield: 8 slices