Looking for a quick, flavorful weeknight dinner that doesn’t require a ton of fuss? Who isn’t, right? This Garlic Butter Turkey Tenderloin is the answer. It’s juicy, flavorful, and ready in under an hour. The simple garlic butter marinade does all the heavy lifting, making this a perfect recipe for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend meal. Let’s get cooking!
Top Reasons To Make It
This Garlic Butter Turkey Tenderloin is a winner for a few key reasons. First, it’s FAST. Ready in under an hour, which is music to any busy cook’s ears. Second, it’s EASY. Simple ingredients, simple method. Honestly, if you can stir together a marinade, you can make this. Third, it’s DELICIOUS. Who doesn’t love the flavor of garlicky, buttery turkey?
Ingredients
- Turkey tenderloin: The star of our show.
- Butter: Melted butter for the marinade.
- Garlic: Gives the turkey a delightful, savory flavor.
- Olive oil: Keeps the turkey moist and helps the marinade adhere.
- Lemon juice: Adds brightness and cuts through the richness of the butter.
- Fresh herbs: Like rosemary, thyme, or parsley; gives a fresh, aromatic touch.
- Salt and pepper: Enhances the overall flavor.
- Paprika: Adds a touch of color and smokiness (optional).
- Cayenne pepper: For a hint of heat (optional).
Below in the recipe card, you’ll find the exact measurements for each of these delicious ingredients.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, herbs, salt, pepper, paprika (if using), and cayenne (if using) in a small bowl to create your Turkey tips marinade.
- Place the turkey tenderloin in a baking dish and pour the marinade over it, ensuring it’s coated on all sides. Really get it in there!
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Check the temperature with a meat thermometer in the thickest part of the tenderloin.
- Once cooked, let the turkey rest for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful turkey.
Variations & Substitutions
Want to switch things up? Try using dried herbs instead of fresh, or add a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor. For anyone watching their fat intake, you can also substitute chicken broth for some of the melted butter. But, it’s butter… so…
Pro Tips For Perfectly Cooked Turkey
- Don’t overcook your turkey! Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) but doesn’t go much higher. Overcooked turkey can be dry.
- Letting the turkey rest before slicing is essential for maximum juiciness. So, so tender.
- Pat the turkey dry before marinating. This helps the marinade adhere better.
- Feel free to double the marinade ingredients and use half for basting during the baking process to keep the turkey extra moist.
- A playful tip, because everyone needs a good kitchen giggle: Want Insta-worthy perfect grill marks? Sear you tenderloin for a minute per side before putting it in the oven.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Garlic Butter Turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, slice and gently warm in a microwave, or slice and add to stir-fries. Note: Do not let cooked turkey tenderloin come to room temperature twice. Warm it only as much as needed when reheating, and consume leftovers within a safe time frame.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use this marinade for other turkey recipes? Absolutely! This marinade is also wonderful for grilled Thanksgiving recipes, whole roasted turkey, or even turkey breast. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can marinate the turkey tenderloin up to 24 hours in advance. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
This Garlic Butter Turkey Tenderloin is truly a weeknight lifesaver. Easy to prepare, quick to cook, and packed with flavor, it’s a dinner your whole family will love. Enjoy!
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Garlic Butter Turkey Tenderloin: Weeknight Winner
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Garlic Butter Turkey Tenderloin is juicy, flavorful, and unbelievably easy to make. With a savory garlic-herb marinade and a touch of lemon, it’s the perfect protein for a cozy weeknight dinner or holiday meal.
Ingredients
2 turkey tenderloins (about 1.5 lbs total)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, rosemary, thyme, parsley, salt, pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
3. Place the turkey tenderloins in a baking dish. Pour the marinade over them and coat all sides thoroughly.
4. Bake uncovered for 30–40 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
6. Serve warm with pan juices spooned on top, if desired.
Notes
For best results, let the turkey marinate in the garlic butter mixture for 30 minutes before baking.
You can substitute dried herbs if fresh isn’t available — use ⅓ of the fresh amount.
Serve with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a simple rice pilaf for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Oven-Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 tenderloin
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 430mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: garlic butter turkey, baked turkey tenderloin, easy turkey dinner, roasted turkey breast, Thanksgiving alternative