Garlic Butter Turkey Tenderloin Recipe: Juicy, Flavor-Packed, and Perfect for Any Thanksgiving or Weeknight Dinner

Last Updated on October 22, 2025 by Chef Josie

If you’re looking for a main dish that’s tender, full of flavor, and beautifully simple to prepare, this Garlic Butter Turkey Tenderloin is exactly what you need. Imagine a perfectly seasoned, golden-brown turkey tenderloin bathed in rich garlic butter and herbs. Every bite is juicy and full of that comforting, savory depth that makes turkey such a holiday favorite.

This dish doesn’t need to wait for Thanksgiving. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal but impressive enough for a festive dinner spread. Pair it with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green bean side, and you’ve got a meal that feels both elegant and effortless.

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Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Turkey Tenderloin

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour, with simple ingredients you already have.
• Incredibly Juicy: The garlic butter seals in flavor and keeps the meat tender.
• Versatile: Perfect for Thanksgiving, fall dinners, or an elevated weeknight meal.
• Restaurant-Quality Flavor: Garlic, herbs, and butter make the turkey rich, aromatic, and irresistible.
• Pairs with Anything: From mashed potatoes to salads and roasted veggies, this dish complements it all.

Ingredient Breakdown

• Turkey Tenderloin: The star of the dish. Lean, tender, and cooks quickly compared to a full turkey breast.
• Butter: The base for the garlic sauce. Use unsalted butter to control the seasoning.
• Garlic: Freshly minced for that deep, savory aroma.
• Olive Oil: Helps brown the turkey evenly and enhances the buttery flavor.
• Fresh Herbs: A mix of rosemary, thyme, and parsley adds a fragrant, earthy touch.
• Lemon Juice: Brightens the richness of the butter sauce and balances the flavors.
• Salt and Pepper: Classic seasoning to bring everything together.
• Paprika: Adds color and a mild smoky flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet or roasting pan with foil for easy cleanup.
2. Season the Turkey:
   Pat the turkey tenderloins dry with paper towels. Rub them all over with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic, and paprika.
3. Sear the Meat:
   Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the turkey on each side until golden brown, about 2–3 minutes per side. This step locks in the juices.
4. Make the Garlic Butter:
   In a small saucepan, melt the butter with minced garlic and herbs until fragrant, about 1–2 minutes.
5. Roast the Turkey:
   Place the seared turkey in the prepared pan. Brush generously with garlic butter and roast for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Rest and Serve:
   Let the tenderloin rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Spoon the pan drippings over the top for extra flavor.

Chef’s Tips for the Perfect Turkey Tenderloin

• Use a Thermometer: Turkey tenderloin can dry out if overcooked. Check early for doneness.
• Rest the Meat: Letting it rest after roasting redistributes the juices for tender slices.
• Add Extra Garlic Butter: Double the sauce if you love rich, buttery flavor.
• Pan Sauce Upgrade: Deglaze the skillet with a splash of white wine or chicken broth for a simple gravy.
• Fresh Herbs Only: They add a brightness that dried herbs just can’t match.

Serving Suggestions

This Garlic Butter Turkey Tenderloin shines with a variety of sides:

• Rosemary Mashed Potatoes or Garlic Cauliflower Mash
• Green Beans Almondine or Honey Glazed Carrots
• Cranberry Orange Sauce for a festive twist
• Herbed Rice Pilaf or Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Warm gently in the oven at 325°F with a bit of broth or butter to keep it moist.
• Make Ahead: Season and sear ahead of time, then roast just before serving.

Conclusion

This Garlic Butter Turkey Tenderloin is everything you love about a classic roast: juicy, golden, and infused with rich flavor but without the stress or hours in the kitchen. It’s the perfect centerpiece for Thanksgiving or a cozy fall dinner, guaranteed to impress your guests.

If you try this recipe, leave a comment and share your favorite sides to pair it with. For more Turkey Dinner Recipes and Holiday Cooking Inspiration, explore the collection of Fall Dinner Ideas and Thanksgiving Dishes right here!

FAQs

1. What is the difference between turkey tenderloin and turkey breast?
Turkey tenderloin is a smaller, boneless cut from beneath the breast. It’s leaner, more tender, and cooks faster.

2. Can I cook this in an air fryer?
Yes! Air fry at 375°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

3. Can I use this recipe with chicken instead?
Absolutely. Chicken breasts or thighs work beautifully with the same garlic butter and herbs.

4. How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Swap the butter for olive oil or a vegan butter alternative. The flavor will still be rich and aromatic.

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