Sheet Pan Turkey Breast and Stuffing

Introduction

Preparing a delicious turkey dinner for a special occasion can be a time-consuming and labor-intensive task. However, with this sheet pan turkey breast and stuffing recipe, you can enjoy all the flavors of a traditional turkey dinner with much less effort. This recipe is perfect for those who have limited time or prefer a smaller portion of turkey. By using a sheet pan, you can cook both the turkey breast and stuffing simultaneously, saving time and ensuring a deliciously tender and flavorful meal.

Ingredients

For the turkey breast:

1 bone-in turkey breast (approximately 4-6 pounds)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon dried thyme
1 tablespoon dried rosemary
1 tablespoon dried sage
Salt and pepper to taste

For the stuffing:

4 cups bread cubes (preferably stale)
1 cup diced celery
1 cup diced onion
1 cup diced carrots
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon dried sage
1 tablespoon dried thyme
1 tablespoon dried rosemary
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
Salt and pepper to taste

Steps

Step 1: Preparing the turkey breast

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the turkey breast on a cutting board and pat it dry with paper towels. Drizzle the olive oil over the turkey breast, rubbing it all over the skin. In a small bowl, combine the dried thyme, rosemary, sage, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle this herb mixture evenly over the turkey breast, pressing it gently to adhere.

Step 2: Preparing the stuffing

In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes, celery, onion, carrots, garlic, sage, thyme, and rosemary. Toss everything together until well mixed. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the vegetable broth and bring it to a simmer. Pour the hot broth mixture over the bread and vegetable mixture, stirring well to combine. Allow the stuffing to sit for a few minutes, allowing the bread to absorb the liquid.

Step 3: Assembling the sheet pan

Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper. Place the turkey breast in the center of the pan, and then spread the stuffing around the turkey, forming an even layer. Make sure the stuffing is not too thick, as it may not cook through properly.

Step 4: Roasting the turkey and stuffing

Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and roast for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the turkey breast reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the stuffing is golden brown and crispy on top. You may need to adjust the cooking time depending on the size of your turkey breast.

Variations

This recipe provides a basic foundation for a sheet pan turkey breast and stuffing, but there are numerous variations you can try to customize the flavors:

Add dried cranberries or chopped apples to the stuffing mixture for a hint of sweetness.
Include chopped walnuts or pecans in the stuffing for added texture.
Brush the turkey breast with a mixture of melted butter and maple syrup for a maple-glazed turkey.
Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the stuffing before baking for a cheesy twist.
Season the turkey breast with your favorite spice rub or marinade before roasting for a different flavor profile.

Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your sheet pan turkey breast and stuffing turn out perfectly:

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey breast. This will ensure it is fully cooked but still moist and tender.
If your turkey breast is larger or smaller than the suggested weight, adjust the cooking time accordingly. The key is to cook it until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Allow the turkey breast to rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier turkey.
If you prefer a crispier stuffing, you can broil it for a few minutes at the end of cooking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Conclusion

With this sheet pan turkey breast and stuffing recipe, you can enjoy a delicious and hassle-free turkey dinner. The convenience of cooking both the turkey and stuffing on one pan saves time and effort, while still delivering exceptional flavor. Whether you’re preparing a Thanksgiving feast or simply craving a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Experiment with different variations and make it your own. Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I use boneless turkey breast for this recipe?

Yes, you can use boneless turkey breast for this recipe. However, the cooking time may be slightly shorter, so make sure to check the internal temperature to ensure it is fully cooked.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While it’s best to enjoy the turkey and stuffing fresh out of the oven, you can make the stuffing ahead of time and refrigerate it. Simply assemble the sheet pan and refrigerate until ready to roast. Add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure everything is heated through.

Can I use homemade bread for the stuffing?

Absolutely! Homemade bread adds a wonderful flavor and texture to the stuffing. If your bread is fresh, you can cube it and place it in a low oven for a few minutes to dry it out slightly before using it in the recipe.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers. Allow the turkey and stuffing to cool completely before portioning them into airtight containers or freezer bags. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.