Welcome to a culinary journey that transforms a simple turkey breast into an exquisite centerpiece: the **Stuffed Turkey Roll**. This remarkable recipe features succulent turkey breast masterfully wrapped around a rich and savory filling of creamy cheese, fresh spinach, and briny Kalamata olives, all infused with the aromatic essence of rosemary and thyme. It’s a truly spectacular alternative to roasting a whole turkey, providing all the beloved flavors and festive appeal of a classic holiday meal, yet presented in an elegant, easy-to-slice, and effortless-to-serve dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re planning an intimate holiday gathering, a sophisticated dinner party, or simply seeking an elevated weeknight meal, this Stuffed Turkey Roll delivers impressive results with minimal fuss. Its inherent versatility means it pairs beautifully with a wide array of side dishes, making it a reliable star on your menu. The thoughtful preparation ensures a juicy, tender turkey every time, avoiding the common pitfall of dry poultry. Plus, it reheats wonderfully, making it an excellent candidate for meal prepping and enjoying delicious leftovers throughout the week.
For those who love turkey breast recipes and want to explore more options, feel free to check out my other delightful preparations like the Air Fryer Boneless Turkey Breast and Roasted Boneless Turkey Breast recipes. Each offers a unique way to enjoy this versatile protein, but for sheer elegance and flavor, this stuffed roll stands out.
This dish transcends the ordinary, transforming a humble turkey breast into a gourmet experience. It’s a fantastic choice for those who appreciate homemade meals but have limited time, as it truly comes together with surprisingly minimal hands-on prep. Imagine the aroma filling your kitchen as it roasts, promising a delightful meal that satisfies both the eye and the palate. Its ability to reheat beautifully also makes it a smart option for meal prepping, ensuring you have delicious, wholesome lunches or dinners ready to go, saving you time and effort during busy days.
Why You’ll Love This Stuffed Turkey Roll Recipe
This **Stuffed Turkey Roll** isn’t just another turkey recipe; it’s a culinary triumph that boasts several compelling reasons to become a staple in your kitchen:
- Incredibly Flavorful: The dynamic interplay of savory spinach, sharp garlic, fragrant rosemary, earthy thyme, and the briny kick of Kalamata olives creates a stuffing that perfectly complements the naturally sweet and mild turkey meat. Each bite is a symphony of textures and tastes, from the tender turkey to the creamy, herbaceous filling.
- Moist and Juicy Every Time: One of the biggest challenges with turkey breast can be preventing it from drying out. This recipe ingeniously solves that problem! By butterflying and then rolling the turkey breast around the moist filling, the meat is protected from direct heat, locking in its natural juices. The creamy cheese in the stuffing further contributes to the overall moisture, resulting in a remarkably succulent finish.
- Perfect for Smaller Gatherings: If you’re hosting a more intimate dinner or don’t need to roast an entire bird, this stuffed turkey roll is an ideal solution. It offers all the traditional, comforting flavors of a holiday roast in a more manageable portion size, making it less intimidating to prepare and easier to serve. It looks impressive without requiring the extensive labor of a whole turkey.
- Elegant Presentation: Sliced into beautiful rounds, this stuffed turkey roll presents a stunning cross-section of colors and textures, making it a showstopper on any dining table. It effortlessly elevates a simple dinner into a sophisticated dining experience.
- Weeknight Friendly & Meal Prep Dream: Despite its gourmet appearance, this recipe is surprisingly straightforward to prepare, making it suitable even for busy weeknights. Its fantastic reheating qualities also mean you can enjoy delicious, high-quality meals with minimal effort on subsequent days.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
Crafting the perfect Stuffed Turkey Roll starts with selecting fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building the incredible flavor and texture of this dish:
- Turkey Breast: The star of our dish! Opt for a **boneless, skin-on turkey breast**. The skin is crucial here, as it renders beautiful fat during roasting, keeping the meat moist and crisping up to a gorgeous golden-brown finish. Boneless makes the butterflying and rolling process much simpler. Aim for about a 3-pound breast for the specified serving size.
- Cream Cheese: This forms the creamy, tangy base of our luscious filling. Using **room temperature cream cheese** is key for achieving a smooth, easily spreadable mixture that combines effortlessly with the other filling ingredients. It adds a delightful richness and a subtle tang that balances the savory elements.
- Filling Powerhouses – Spinach and Olives:
- Chopped Spinach: Adds a beautiful green color, earthy notes, and a healthy dose of vitamins. Fresh spinach is preferred for its vibrant flavor and texture, but well-drained frozen spinach can also work in a pinch.
- Sliced Kalamata Olives: These provide a wonderful briny, slightly fruity, and intensely savory counterpoint to the creamy cheese and mild turkey. Their distinct flavor profile elevates the stuffing, adding depth and complexity.
- Aromatic Filling Spices: To season the filling from the inside out, we incorporate a fragrant blend:
- Minced Garlic: Fresh garlic offers a pungent, aromatic foundation.
- Dried Rosemary: Known for its piney, slightly citrusy aroma, rosemary pairs exceptionally well with poultry.
- Dried Thyme: Earthy and subtly floral, thyme adds a classic, comforting flavor that complements the other herbs.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for enhancing all the flavors and providing a balanced seasoning profile.
- Crispy Outer Seasoning: The exterior of the stuffed turkey roll receives a special treatment to achieve a golden, flavorful crust:
- Melted Butter: Brushing the roll with butter helps it brown beautifully, locks in moisture, and adds a rich, dairy note.
- Paprika: Contributes a vibrant reddish hue and a mild, sweet peppery flavor. Smoked paprika can be used for a deeper, more robust taste.
- Onion Powder: Delivers a concentrated onion flavor without the moisture or texture of fresh onions.
- Garlic Powder: Similar to onion powder, it provides a consistent garlic flavor that adheres well to the surface.
- Salt and Pepper: Crucial for ensuring every part of the turkey roll is perfectly seasoned.
Smart Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
One of the joys of cooking is the freedom to customize. This Stuffed Turkey Roll recipe is incredibly forgiving and adaptable, allowing you to tailor it to your taste preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Don’t hesitate to experiment!
Filling Variations: The possibilities for your stuffing are endless, limited only by your imagination. Consider these delicious alternatives:
- Mediterranean Twist: For a vibrant, sun-kissed flavor profile, try adding finely chopped **sun-dried tomatoes** (oil-packed, drained), crumbled **feta cheese**, and fresh basil. This combination offers a delightful balance of sweet, salty, and herbaceous notes.
- Autumnal Harvest: Embrace seasonal flavors by incorporating sweet and tart **dried cranberries**, chopped toasted **pecans or walnuts**, and a touch of finely diced **apple** or **pear**. A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the autumnal feel.
- Mushroom and Herb: Sautéed finely chopped mushrooms (cremini or shiitake work well) with a blend of fresh sage and parsley would create an earthy, umami-rich filling.
- Spicy Kick: If you love a bit of heat, add diced jalapeños, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the cream cheese mixture.
Meat Alternatives for Smaller Portions: While turkey breast is fantastic, you can certainly adapt this recipe:
- For smaller, individual portions, boneless, skinless **chicken breasts** are an excellent choice. You would follow the same butterflying and pounding technique, making sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken breasts are typically smaller and cook faster than a large turkey breast. Keep an eye on the internal temperature; chicken should also reach 165°F (74°C).
- You could even use pork tenderloin, though the flavor profile would shift slightly.
Adjusting the Spice Level: Personalize the heat in your stuffed turkey roll:
- For an extra smoky depth and a subtle kick, substitute regular paprika with **smoked paprika** in the outer seasoning blend.
- To truly turn up the heat, stir a generous pinch of **red pepper flakes** directly into the cream cheese filling. Start with a quarter teaspoon and add more to taste.
- A touch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce can also be incorporated into either the filling or the outer seasoning for a bolder, spicier experience.
How To Make Stuffed Turkey Roll: A Step-by-Step Guide
Creating this impressive Stuffed Turkey Roll is simpler than you might imagine. Follow these detailed steps to ensure a perfect, flavorful, and juicy result every time:
Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Breast. Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup and set it aside. Thoroughly pat the boneless, skin-on turkey breast dry with paper towels; this helps in achieving a crispier skin and better searing. Next, carefully slice the turkey breast horizontally, almost all the way through, but leaving about half an inch attached on one side, allowing you to open it up like a book. Place the opened turkey breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Using a meat mallet or the bottom of a heavy skillet, pound the turkey to an even thickness of about ½ to ¾ inch. This ensures even cooking and makes rolling much easier.
Step 2: Craft the Flavorful Filling. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese (ensure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing), finely chopped spinach, sliced Kalamata olives, minced garlic, dried rosemary, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Use a spoon or spatula to mix all the ingredients thoroughly until they are well incorporated and form a cohesive, savory paste. Taste a small amount and adjust seasoning if necessary, keeping in mind the olives will add a salty note.
Step 3: Stuff and Roll the Turkey. Remove the top layer of plastic wrap from the pounded turkey breast. Spread the prepared filling evenly over the entire surface of the turkey, leaving about a ½-inch border around the edges. This border helps prevent the filling from oozing out during rolling. Carefully, yet firmly, roll the turkey breast tightly from one end to the other, making sure the filling stays contained. The goal is to create a compact log-like shape.
Step 4: Apply the Outer Seasoning. In a small bowl, melt the butter. Brush the entire exterior of the rolled turkey with the melted butter, ensuring it’s coated evenly. In another small bowl, mix together the paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper for the outer seasoning. Sprinkle this seasoning blend generously over the buttered turkey roll, patting it gently to help it adhere. This creates a beautiful, flavorful crust as it bakes.
Step 5: Tie and Roast to Perfection. To maintain its shape during cooking and ensure even cooking, secure the turkey roll with kitchen twine at 1-inch intervals. This prevents the roll from unraveling and the stuffing from escaping. Place the tied turkey roll seam-side down onto the prepared baking tray. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 30-35 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, you might want to rotate the pan for even browning. For the last 2-3 minutes of baking, you can switch the oven to the broiler setting (keep a close eye on it!) to achieve a perfectly golden, crispy skin. The internal temperature of the turkey should reach 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer at the thickest part of the roll.
Step 6: Rest and Serve. Once the turkey roll is cooked through, remove it from the oven and transfer it to a cutting board. It is crucial to allow the turkey to rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a tender and moist final product. After resting, carefully remove the kitchen twine. Slice the roll into thick, elegant medallions and serve warm. This dish is truly a delight, offering a blend of flavors and textures that will impress your guests or family.
Expert Tips for a Perfect Stuffed Turkey Roll
Achieving a show-stopping Stuffed Turkey Roll is easy with a few key techniques. These tips will help ensure your dish is flavorful, moist, and beautifully presented:
- Pound the Turkey Evenly: This step is non-negotiable. Flattening the turkey breast to a consistent thickness (about ½ to ¾ inch) is vital for two main reasons: it ensures the entire roll cooks evenly, preventing dry spots, and it makes the rolling process significantly easier, allowing you to create a tight, uniform log.
- Don’t Overfill the Roll: While it might be tempting to pack in as much delicious stuffing as possible, moderation is key. Too much filling can make the roll challenging to seal and secure. Worse, it can cause the turkey to burst open during cooking, leading to a messy presentation and a loss of precious stuffing. Aim for an even layer that allows the turkey to encase it comfortably.
- Secure with Twine: Kitchen twine is your best friend for this recipe. Tying the roll at regular intervals (every inch or so) helps it maintain its compact shape throughout the roasting process. This ensures even cooking, a beautiful presentation, and prevents the stuffing from leaking out. If you don’t have twine, you can use several toothpicks to secure the seam, or simply place the roll seam-side down on the baking sheet.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfectly cooked turkey that is safe to eat and maximally juicy, a reliable meat thermometer is indispensable. Insert it into the thickest part of the roll, ensuring it doesn’t touch the stuffing. The turkey is safely cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Pulling it out precisely at this temperature prevents overcooking and dryness.
- Let It Rest Before Slicing: Patience is a virtue, especially after roasting. Allowing the cooked turkey roll to rest for at least 10 minutes (or even up to 15 minutes for larger rolls) off the heat is crucial. During this time, the muscle fibers relax, allowing the juices that have migrated to the center of the meat during cooking to redistribute back throughout the entire roll. Slicing too soon will result in juices running out onto the cutting board, leaving you with a drier turkey.
What to Serve with Stuffed Turkey Roll
The **Stuffed Turkey Roll** is a versatile main course that pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes, whether you’re aiming for a comforting family meal or an elegant dinner party. Here are some complementary ideas to complete your culinary creation:
- Classic Comfort: For a truly satisfying and traditional meal, serve this Stuffed Turkey Roll alongside creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes. The rich, buttery potatoes are the perfect canvas for the savory turkey. Complement this with a vibrant Cheesy Green Bean Casserole, offering a delightful texture and a touch of indulgence.
- Light & Fresh: If you prefer a lighter, more refreshing accompaniment, consider a crisp Greek Chickpea Salad. Its bright flavors and hearty ingredients provide a wonderful contrast to the rich turkey. Serve with homemade parmesan crackers or a crusty baguette to complete the meal.
- Holiday Inspired: Leaning into festive flavors? A hearty Sweet Potato Quinoa Salad offers a nutritious and flavorful option, with its earthy sweetness complementing the savory turkey. Alternatively, indulge in the comforting sweetness of Maple Walnut Baked Sweet Potatoes for a truly decadent holiday feel.
- Simple Greens: A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette or a serving of steamed asparagus or broccoli can also provide a fresh, healthy balance.
- Homemade Gravy: Don’t forget a simple homemade gravy made from the pan drippings. It adds an extra layer of moisture and rich flavor that ties the entire meal together beautifully.
Storing, Reheating, and Freezing Instructions
This **Stuffed Turkey Roll** is excellent for making ahead, storing leftovers, or even preparing in advance for future meals. Proper handling ensures its deliciousness is preserved.
Storing Leftovers:
Once cooled to room temperature, any leftover Stuffed Turkey Roll should be transferred to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best flavor and texture, ensure it’s tightly sealed to prevent it from drying out.
To Reheat:
Reheating the turkey roll correctly helps maintain its moisture and flavor:
- Oven Method (Recommended for best results): Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place individual slices or the entire leftover roll (if still intact) in an oven-safe dish, adding a tablespoon or two of chicken broth or water to keep it moist. Cover the dish tightly with foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes for slices, or 20-25 minutes for a larger piece, until heated through.
- Microwave Method (For quick reheating): Place individual slices on a microwave-safe plate. Add a splash of water or broth and cover loosely with a damp paper towel. Microwave in 30-second increments until warmed through, checking periodically to avoid overcooking, which can dry out the turkey.
Freezing (Uncooked):
You can prepare the stuffed turkey roll ahead of time and freeze it raw for later enjoyment. After rolling and seasoning, wrap the uncooked roll very tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months. To cook from frozen, thaw the roll completely in the refrigerator overnight (this may take 24-36 hours for a large roll) before proceeding with the roasting instructions as normal. This makes holiday meal prep incredibly convenient!
Alternative Cooking Methods for Your Stuffed Turkey Roll
While oven roasting provides a classic, perfectly browned exterior, your **Stuffed Turkey Roll** can also be cooked using other popular kitchen appliances, offering flexibility and convenience. Here’s how to adapt the recipe for different cooking methods:
Instant Pot Stuffed Turkey Roll:
For a quicker, hands-off approach that keeps the turkey incredibly tender, the Instant Pot is a great choice:
- **Searing:** First, use the SAUTE function on your Instant Pot with a tablespoon of oil or butter. Sear the rolled turkey on all sides until nicely browned. This step is crucial for flavor and color.
- **Pressure Cooking:** Once seared, add about ½ to 1 cup of chicken broth to the pot. Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and pressure cook on HIGH for 20-25 minutes.
- **Release:** After cooking, allow for a natural release for 10 minutes, then perform a quick manual release. Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer (165°F / 74°C).
Slow Cooker Stuffed Turkey Roll:
If you prefer a method that allows you to set it and forget it, the slow cooker will yield a wonderfully tender and moist turkey roll:
- **Preparation:** After assembling and seasoning the stuffed turkey roll (you can lightly sear it first in a skillet on the stovetop for extra flavor, but it’s optional), place it into your slow cooker.
- **Liquid:** Add ½ cup of chicken broth or white wine to the bottom of the slow cooker to create moisture and prevent sticking.
- **Cooking:** Cook on LOW for 4–5 hours, or on HIGH for 2–3 hours. The exact time will depend on the size of your roll and your slow cooker. Always confirm the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving.
Air Fryer Turkey Roll:
For a deliciously crispy exterior and a quick cooking time, the air fryer is a fantastic option, especially for slightly smaller rolls:
- **Preheat:** Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- **Cooking:** Carefully place the seasoned, tied turkey roll in the air fryer basket, ensuring it doesn’t touch the heating element. You may need to cook in batches if your roll is too large for the basket.
- **Time:** Cook for approximately 40-50 minutes, flipping the roll halfway through to ensure even browning and cooking. As always, use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Common Questions About Stuffed Turkey Roll
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions to help you master this delicious Stuffed Turkey Roll recipe:
Absolutely! This recipe is excellent for meal prep. You can prepare the filling and butterfly/pound the turkey breast up to 24 hours in advance. Keep the filling covered in the fridge and the turkey covered separately. Assemble and bake just before serving. Alternatively, you can fully assemble the raw roll, wrap it tightly, and refrigerate it for a day. For even longer storage, you can freeze the uncooked roll as detailed in the “Storing and Reheating” section.
Several strategies help ensure a moist Stuffed Turkey Roll. Firstly, rolling the turkey breast around the filling acts as a natural barrier, protecting the meat from drying out. Secondly, basting the turkey with butter or broth periodically while it roasts adds moisture to the exterior. Covering the roll loosely with foil for the first half of the cooking time can also prevent the surface from drying too quickly. Most importantly, avoid overcooking! Use a reliable meat thermometer and remove the turkey from the oven immediately once the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Finally, allowing the turkey to rest for 10-15 minutes after baking allows the juices to redistribute, leading to a much juicier slice.
Yes, you certainly can! A large boneless chicken breast or two smaller ones can be substituted for the turkey. You’ll follow the same process of butterflying, pounding, stuffing, and rolling. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken breasts are typically smaller and will cook faster than a full turkey breast. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
If you find yourself without kitchen twine, there are a few alternatives. You can use heat-safe **toothpicks** to secure the seam and edges of the roll at regular intervals. Alternatively, if you’re confident in your rolling technique, you can simply place the stuffed turkey roll **seam-side down** on the baking sheet. The weight of the roll and the pressure from the pan will often help it hold its shape during cooking. Just be a bit more gentle when transferring it.
Yes, you can use frozen spinach as a convenient alternative. Just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible. This step is crucial, as too much water in the filling can make it soggy and potentially cause the turkey to burst during cooking.
Making a simple pan gravy is a delicious way to enhance your Stuffed Turkey Roll. After removing the cooked turkey from the pan and allowing it to rest, pour off most of the fat from the baking sheet, leaving behind the flavorful drippings. Place the pan over medium heat on the stovetop (if it’s stovetop safe) or transfer drippings to a saucepan. Stir in 1-2 tablespoons of flour or cornstarch to create a roux, cooking for a minute or two. Gradually whisk in about 1-1.5 cups of chicken or turkey broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Simmer until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
More Delicious Recipes To Try
If you’ve enjoyed the flavors and simplicity of this Stuffed Turkey Roll, you’ll love exploring more of these fantastic recipes perfect for any meal:
- Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots: A sweet and tender side dish that adds vibrant color and flavor to any plate.
- Oven Baked Turkey Breast: A straightforward and reliable recipe for juicy turkey breast, perfect for everyday meals.
- Baked Keto Turkey Meatballs: Flavorful and wholesome meatballs, ideal for a low-carb option or a versatile appetizer.
This **Stuffed Turkey Roll** truly is the epitome of gourmet convenience, offering the perfect solution for both smaller holiday gatherings and elegant weeknight dinners. Its combination of juicy, tender turkey, a richly flavored stuffing, and its remarkable versatility in customization makes it a recipe you’ll want to revisit again and again. It promises to impress with its presentation and delight with every delicious bite.
If you take the plunge and try this magnificent recipe or any of my other culinary creations, please consider sharing your experience! Your feedback is invaluable, so please leave a star rating and a comment in the section below. Don’t forget to follow me at Cookin’ With Mima on Facebook |Instagram |Pinterest for all of my latest social posts, kitchen tips, and new recipes that are sure to inspire your next meal.
Stuffed Turkey Roll
Ingredients
- 3 lb boneless turkey breast, skin on
For filling
- 4 ounce cream cheese, at room temperature
- ½ cup spinach, chopped
- ⅓ cup kalamata olives, sliced
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
For outer seasoning
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper and set aside.
- Pat the turkey breast dry with a kitchen towel. Slice it horizontally almost all the way through to open it like a book. Pound it to an even thickness of about ½ to ¾ inch.
- For the filling, mix softened cream cheese, chopped spinach, sliced Kalamata olives, minced garlic, dried rosemary, dried thyme, salt, and pepper in a large bowl until well combined.
- Spread the filling evenly over the turkey breast, leaving a ½-inch border. Roll it tightly from one end to the other to form a compact log.
- Brush the outside of the turkey roll with melted butter. In a separate small bowl, combine paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper for the outer seasoning. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the buttered roll. Tie with kitchen twine at 1-inch intervals to secure the roll’s shape.
- Place the tied turkey roll seam-side down on the prepared baking tray. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). For the last 2-3 minutes, broil to achieve a golden, crispy skin (watch carefully to prevent burning).
- Let the turkey rest on a cutting board for 10 minutes before removing the twine, slicing, and serving warm.
Notes
- Pound the Turkey Evenly: Flattening the turkey helps with even cooking and makes rolling easier.
- Don’t Overfill the Roll: Too much stuffing can make it difficult to roll and cause it to burst open while cooking.
- Secure with Twine: Kitchen twine helps keep the roll intact while roasting.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to avoid undercooked turkey.
- Let It Rest Before Slicing: This keeps the juices from running out, keeping the turkey moist and tender.
Nutrition
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