Turkey tenderloin is an incredibly popular protein that can be used in various dishes. Not only is it versatile, but turkey tenderloin can be cooked in a variety of ways and can be served as the main course for a special occasion or simply as part of an everyday meal.
But what to serve with turkey tenderloin? Here are 19 incredible dishes that will make your turkey tenderloin the star of the show!
In short - What to serve with turkey tenderloin Roasted Vegetables, Quinoa Pilaf, Mashed Potatoes, Sauces, Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Sweet Potatoes, Quinoa Stuffing, Green Beans with Almond Butter Sauce, Mashed Cauliflower, Sweet Potato Casserole, Cranberry Sauce, Apple Stuffing, Pumpkin Pie, Roasted Turkey Tenderloin with Rosemary, Turkey Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze
What kind of meat is turkey tenderloin? What does turkey tenderloin taste like?
Turkey tenderloin is a lean cut of turkey meat taken from the breast section. It has lower fat and calories than other cuts, making it a healthier meal option.
Turkey tenderloin has a mild flavor with slightly sweet undertones somewhere between chicken and veal. The texture is firm and somewhat dry but can be kept moist if cooked in a flavorful sauce or broth. After properly cooking, it becomes juicy, tender, and full of flavor.
The taste can vary slightly depending on how it’s prepared; when cooked slowly over low heat or roasted, turkey tenderloin will have an even more delicate flavor with juicy morsels that melt in your mouth.
19 Amazing sides to serve with your turkey tenderloin
1. Roasted Vegetables:
Roasted vegetables are a great way to add flavor and texture to any meal.
Whether you’re roasting root vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and beets or cruciferous veggies such as cauliflower and Brussels sprouts, roasting brings out their natural sweetness.
To make sure your roasted vegetables don’t dry out, be sure to coat them in oil before placing them in the oven. A sprinkle of salt will also help bring out the flavors.
2. Quinoa Pilaf:
Quinoa pilaf is a delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with turkey tenderloin.
This flavorful dish combines cooked quinoa with sautéed onions, garlic, celery, carrots, and diced tomatoes for an easy-to-make side dish that packs plenty of flavors.
To make it even more interesting, add some herbs or spices, such as cumin or chili powder, for an extra kick!
3. Mashed Potatoes:
Mashed potatoes are invariably a favorite side dish when it comes to serving turkey tenderloin. They’re creamy and comforting but also light enough that they won’t overpower the flavor of the turkey.
To create the perfect mashed potatoes, start by boiling the potatoes until they’re soft, then mash them up with butter and cream until they reach your desired consistency.
You can also add herbs or spices for extra flavor if desired!
Know More: What to serve with Beef Tenderloin
4. Sauces:
Adding sauces to your dish is another great way to enhance the flavor profile of your turkey tenderloin.
Sauces can add texture and depth of flavor that will take your dish up a notch! Try balsamic glaze or honey mustard sauce to add sweetness while still keeping things light.
If you’re looking for something on the heartier side, consider cream-based sauces like mushroom cream sauce or garlic Parmesan cream sauce that will bring out the savory flavors in your turkey tenderloin.
More- 16 best Sauces to Elevate Your Chicken Tender Experience
5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Sweet Potatoes:
Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Sweet Potatoes are packed with flavor and nutrients. Roasting Brussels sprouts and sweet potatoes brings out their natural sweetness, and the addition of fresh thyme and orange zest adds a lovely depth of flavor.
6. Quinoa Stuffing:
Quinoa Stuffing is a healthier alternative to traditional stuffing made with white bread.
Quinoa is enriched with nutrient grain that is perfect for those watching their carb intake.
The addition of dried cranberries, toasted pecans, and fresh sage gives this stuffing plenty of flavors. Serve it alongside your turkey tenderloin for a complete, satisfying meal.
7. Green Beans with Almond Butter Sauce:
The green Beans with Almond Butter Sauce dish is simple yet elegant. The green beans are cooked until they are tender but still have a bit of bite, and then they are tossed in a sauce made from almond butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
8. Mashed Cauliflower:
This mashed cauliflower dish is a lighter alternative to mashed potatoes. It’s just as creamy and flavorful as mashed potatoes but without all the guilt!
You can use any type of cauliflower you like for this dish; I prefer to use riced cauliflower for a smoother consistency. Eat Mashed Cauliflower with turkey tenderloin for a complete, satisfying meal.
9. Sweet Potato Casserole:
Sweet Potato Casserole is the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. The sweet potatoes are cooked until they are soft and then mashed with milk, butter, brown sugar, and spices.
The topping is made with chopped pecans and more brown sugar for a delicious crunchy topping.
10. Cranberry Sauce:
Cranberry sauce is so much better than the canned stuff! It’s made with fresh cranberries, orange juice, honey, and spices.
Read More: What to serve with Amylu Cranberry Jalapeno Meatballs
It’s the perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors that goes well with rich turkey tenderloin. Serve this sauce alongside your turkey tenderloin for a complete, satisfying meal.”
11. Apple Stuffing:
Apple stuffing is made with diced apples, bread crumbs, dried cranberries, celery, onion, chicken broth, and thyme leaves, and it’s all topped off with some shredded Gruyere cheese!
It’s the perfect mix of sweet and savory flavors that will complement your turkey tenderloin perfectly.
12. Pumpkin Pie:
No Thanksgiving feast would be concluded without pumpkin pie!
This pie is made with fresh pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk,” Eggs,” Spices,” and it’s all baked up in an unbaked pie crust!”
13. Roasted Turkey Tenderloin with Rosemary:
Roasted Turkey Tenderloin with Rosemary is simple but elegant, perfect for impressing your dinner guests.
The rosemary adds a beautiful flavor to the roasted turkey, and it makes the whole dish smell incredible.
More- 15 Amazing Side Dishes to Serve with Smoked Turkey Legs
14. Turkey Tenderloin with Mushroom Gravy:
Turkey Tenderloin with Mushroom Gravy dish is hearty and comforting, perfect for a winter meal. The mushroom gravy is rich and flavorful and combines well with the tender turkey.
15. Sautéed Turkey Tenderloin with Garlic:
Sautéed Turkey Tenderloin with Garlic recipe is quick and easy, perfect for a weeknight meal. The garlic adds a delicious flavor to the turkey, and it’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
16. Turkey Tenderloin with BBQ Sauce:
Turkey Tenderloin with BBQ Sauce is perfect for summer cookouts and picnics. The BBQ sauce adds a smoky flavor to the turkey that will have your guests coming back for more.
17. Turkey Tenderloin with Cranberry Chutney:
This dish is festive and flavorful, perfect for holiday entertaining. The cranberry chutney adds a tart sweetness that goes well with the turkey, and it looks beautiful on the plate.
18. Turkey Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze:
Turkey Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze is perfect for fall gatherings. The apple cider glaze adds a touch of sweetness to the turkey, and it makes the whole dish look like something straight out of a magazine.
19. Turkey Tenderloin with Spicy Peanut Sauce:
Turkey Tenderloin with Spicy Peanut Sauce is perfect for those who like their food with a little bit of heat. The spicy peanut sauce adds an exotic flavor to the turkey, and it’s sure to spice up any mealtime gathering.
What are the best flavors to go with turkey tenderloin?
Turkey tenderloin is an incredibly versatile and delicious cut of meat that can be served with a wide variety of flavors.
Herbs such as rosemary, thyme, oregano, sage, and tarragon are all excellent choices for seasoning tenderloin. Other flavorful ingredients like garlic, onions, lemon juice, and white wine can be used to make a flavorful marinade, which will help keep the meat tender and juicy.
If you’re searching for extra flavor for your turkey tenderloin, consider stuffing it with herbs, vegetables, and other flavorful ingredients.
You can get creative with your stuffing recipes—try combining ingredients like spinach, mushrooms, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean flavor or apples, walnuts, and sage for a classic fall dish.
Don’t forget about leftovers, either—turkey tenderloin makes for great sandwiches.
Slice it up and serve on a bun with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite condiments. Or make yourself a classic hot turkey sandwich by layering the meat on some toasted bread with gravy and mashed potatoes.
What to serve with turkey breast tenderloin?
To accompany turkey breast, try some classic options, including roasted or mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables such as green beans or broccoli, and warm dinner rolls. Try serving roasted root vegetables such as carrots and parsnips, Brussels sprouts, or green beans with shallots.
An array of sauces, such as cranberry sauce or gravy, is also a popular accompaniment. I sometimes combine it with creamy polenta, roasted squash, and even wild rice blend. Cornbread stuffing, savory casseroles, and diced sautéed apples.
Finally, don’t forget about dessert! A pumpkin pie, apple crumble, or pecan tart is all delicious options for the perfect ending to a meal featuring turkey breast tenderloin are other delicious options that complete the perfect Thanksgiving meal.
Read More- What are 4 commonly consumed foods at Thanksgiving other than turkey?
How do you jazz up your turkey tenderloin?
Jazz Up turkey is a very interesting part while cooking; you can get an amazing flavor from the regular tenderloin.
One way I like to jazz up turkey tenderloin is by marinating it in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, herbs, and lemon juice.
This marinade will add flavor and moisture to the turkey while also helping to tenderize it. The acidic lemon juice helps to break down the muscle fibers of the meat, making it softer and more tender. Let the turkey marinate for at least an hour and up to overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.
Another option is to wrap the turkey tenderloin in bacon. The bacon adds flavor and fat, keeping the turkey moist while it cooks.
Use thick-cut bacon for best results, wrapping two or three strips around each piece of turkey. The bacon will help to keep the tenderloin together while it cooks and can be removed once done.
You can add some excitement to your turkey tenderloin by adding stuffing or marmalade glaze. ( Read Recipe)
How should turkey tenderloin be served?
Turkey tenderloin is best served with a flavorful and savory sauce. It can be served with fresh herbs, such as thyme and rosemary, to complement the dish.
The tenderloin can also be grilled or seared and served with vegetables, steamed potatoes, or a side salad.
For an extra special treat, try adding a bit of bacon or prosciutto to the dish. Placing a few slices of peeled oranges or lemons over top of the cooked turkey helps keep it moist during roasting.
Best turkey tenderloin recipe you Must Try
1. Pomegranate-Balsamic Glazed Turkey Tenderloin:
Pomegranate-Balsamic Glazed Turkey Tenderloin is a delicious recipe that combines the sweetness of balsamic glaze with tart pomegranate for a unique flavor.
A combination of garlic, oregano, and thyme gives this turkey tenderloin a classic Mediterranean flair. Serve with mashed potatoes and a side of roasted vegetables for an easy and delicious meal.
2. Chipotle-Honey Glazed Salmon:
Chipotle-Honey Glazed Salmon is simple yet flavorful recipe will make anyone want seconds! The smoky flavor of chipotle is balanced with the sweetness of honey, making it a great combination for grilled salmon. Serve this salmon alongside steamed rice or quinoa and a salad of your favorite greens.
3. Lemon-Mint Chicken Skewers:
Lemon-Mint Chicken Skewers comes with bright and refreshing flavors from the lemon and mint, these chicken skewers make a perfect summer dish.
They are quick to prepare and cook in minutes on an outdoor grill or stovetop griddle pan. Serve with couscous or pita bread for a complete meal that is sure to please.
4. Apricot-Mustard Pork Roast:
Apricot-Mustard Pork Roast is a hearty and delicious roast bursts with flavor from the sweet apricots and sour mustard. A combination of ground ginger, coriander, and nutmeg makes this pork dish a unique twist on traditional roasts.
Serve with mashed potatoes or boiled vegetables for a delightful meal that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters!
5. Cumin-Coconut Shrimp Curry:
Cumin-Coconut Shrimp Curry with its bold spices and creamy coconut milk, this curry is sure to tantalize your taste buds!
The combination of cumin and turmeric gives an authentic Indian flavor while still being mild enough for everyone in the family to enjoy.
Serve over jasmine rice and garnish with fresh cilantro for a delicious dinner the whole family can appreciate.
6. Baked Apple-Cinnamon French Toast:
Baked Apple-Cinnamon French Toast is a classic breakfast dish gets an upgrade with the addition of sweet apples and cinnamon. Serve it warm with maple syrup and a dollop of yogurt for a comforting start to your day. It’s also great reheated in the microwave as an easy and tasty snack!
7. Fajita-Style Vegetable Quesadillas:
Fajita-Style Vegetable Quesadillas is packed full of colorful vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms, these quesadillas are both delicious and healthy!
The combination of fajita seasoning gives them a unique flavor that will make you feel like you’re dining out at a Mexican restaurant.
Serve with guacamole, salsa, and sour cream for the perfect party appetizer or meal.
8. Maple-Soy Glazed Tofu:
Maple-Soy Glazed Tofu with its sweet-savory combo of maple syrup and soy sauce, this tasty recipe is sure to win over even the most skeptical tofu eater!
Cubes of tofu are marinated in the glaze and then roasted in the oven until they’re crispy on the outer side and soft on the inner side. Serve as part of a stir fry bowl or alongside steamed vegetables for a hearty vegan meal.
9. Spicy Peanut Noodles:
Spicy Peanut Noodles is an Asian-inspired noodles that come together quickly with minimal ingredients but have an intense flavor profile that will leave you wanting more.
A combination of sesame oil, crushed red pepper flakes, and creamy peanut butter give the noodles a delicious kick of heat that is sure to satisfy them. Serve with grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal.
10. White Pizza with Roasted Garlic:
White Pizza with Roasted Garlic features a unique combination of flavors that will have you coming back for more!
The roasted garlic gives it an earthy flavor, while mozzarella cheese and white sauce keep it light and satisfying. Top with your favorite veggies and bake until golden brown for a truly delicious dinner!
Takeaway What to eat with Turkey Tenderloin
Whether you are hosting a special occasion dinner or just cooking up an everyday meal at home, pairing turkey tenderloin with complementary sides and sauces is sure to bring out its best flavor!
Vegetables are always a great option because they provide texture and color contrast that elevates any dish. Potatoes are a universal choice for any rich dish, and don’t forget about sides like grains or low-carb options like cauliflower—these can help round out the plate while adding extra flavor too!
Don’t forget to end with desserts like pie or wine paired with Tenderloin perfectly.
These are just some ideas for sides to serve and eat with turkey tenderloins. So, what are you waiting for? Get cooking!
FAQs
Is turkey tenderloin the same as turkey breast?
No, turkey tenderloin and turkey breast are not the same.
Turkey breast is taken from the chest muscles of the turkey and is typically a boneless, skinless cut of meat. It tends to be thinner than other cuts of turkey because it has less fat content.
On the other hand, turkey tenderloin is taken from the thigh muscle. It is usually sold with its skin attached to help retain moisture during cooking.
In general, turkey tenderloin is a more flavorful cut of meat due to its higher fat content. Both cuts are an excellent source of lean protein and can be used in an array of dishes.
How much is a turkey tenderloin enough for one person?
One turkey tenderloin is usually enough for one person, depending on the size of the tenderloin and other factors such as age, weight, and hunger levels.
Generally speaking, a 4-ounce turkey tenderloin is sufficient for an adult. This portion provides approximately 150 calories, 7 grams of fat, 24 grams of protein, and 350 milligrams of sodium.
If you are looking to feed more than one person or have larger appetites in your group, consider increasing the portion size to 8 ounces per person for a more substantial meal.
What fruit goes with turkey?
Turkey is sometimes served with a variety of fruits, such as cranberry sauce or applesauce.
Fruits like orange slices, grapes, and pomegranates can also be added to turkey dishes, adding a sweet and juicy flavor. Pears are mostly used in stuffing, providing a nice balance between savory and sweet.
Other popular fruit goes with turkey include figs, mandarin oranges, and dried cherries.
What is good about turkey besides gravy?
Besides gravy, there are lots of great items that go really well with turkey. These include cranberry sauce, cornbread dressing, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts and carrots, stuffing, sweet potatoes, macaroni and cheese, sautéed mushrooms and onions, green beans, almondine, or other classic green bean dishes.
Other delicious options include potato gratin or scalloped potatoes and dinner rolls. Pie like pumpkin, Pecan, and Apple Crisp is the best way to end your dinner.
You could also try making cupcakes or cake pops in festive autumn colors.