Garlic Butter Turkey Tenderloin

Looking for a dish that’s juicy, flavorful, and quick to prepare? Garlic Butter Turkey Tenderloin is the answer. With tender turkey, rich melted butter, and the irresistible aroma of garlic and herbs, this recipe delivers comfort and elegance in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s one of those meals that feels fancy without the fuss.

What Is Garlic Butter Turkey Tenderloin?

At its core, this dish is all about simplicity done right: lean turkey tenderloin seared to perfection, then bathed in garlicky butter infused with fresh rosemary and thyme. The result? A golden, juicy centerpiece that tastes every bit as indulgent as it sounds.

It’s proof of the old saying, “the way to the heart is through the stomach”—especially when garlic butter is involved.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Tender & Juicy: The garlic butter keeps the turkey moist and full of flavor.

• Quick & Easy: From start to finish, it’s ready in just 30 minutes.

• Budget-Friendly Gourmet: Skip the restaurant and make something equally delicious at home.

• Versatile: Pair it with sides from mashed potatoes to fresh salads.

If you love this, you might also enjoy our Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken—another simple yet elegant dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb turkey tenderloin

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped

• 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• Lemon slices, for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Turkey: Pat dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper.

2. Melt Butter: Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat until bubbling.

3. Add Flavor: Stir in garlic, rosemary, and thyme. Sauté for about 1 minute, being careful not to burn the garlic.

4. Sear the Meat: Add the turkey tenderloin and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown.

5. Baste: Spoon the garlic butter over the turkey as it cooks to lock in flavor.

6. Check Temperature: Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (about 15–20 minutes total).

7. Rest & Serve: Let the turkey rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Drizzle with extra garlic butter and garnish with lemon slices if desired.

Serving Ideas

This dish pairs beautifully with:

• Creamy mashed potatoes

• Roasted seasonal vegetables

• A crisp green salad

• A glass of chilled white wine or refreshing iced tea

Tips for Success

• Fresh or Dried Herbs: Use dried rosemary/thyme if needed, but reduce the amount to about ⅓.

• Don’t Overcook: Use a meat thermometer to ensure juicy, tender results.

• Customize Flavors: Try adding paprika, chili flakes, or Italian seasoning for a twist.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months, wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn.

• Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or in the microwave in short intervals.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Turkey Tenderloin is proof that great food doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a few ingredients, you’ll create a meal that’s flavorful, comforting, and sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for guests or treating yourself, this dish is always a win.

Garlic Butter Turkey Tenderloin

A succulent and savory turkey tenderloin coated in rich garlic butter, perfect for weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 300

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound turkey tenderloin
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste Season generously
• Lemon slices for garnish (optional)

Method

 

Preparation

1. Start by patting the turkey tenderloin dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better and promotes a nice sear.
2. Season generously with salt and pepper.

Cooking

1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat until it starts to bubble.
2. Once the butter is melted, toss in the minced garlic, rosemary, and thyme. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Place the seasoned turkey tenderloin in the skillet and sear it for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
4. Using a spoon, baste the turkey tenderloin with the garlic butter mixture to bring the flavors deeper into the meat.
5. Cook until the internal temperature of the turkey reaches 165°F, about 15-20 minutes in total.

Serving

1. Once cooked, let the turkey rest for 5 minutes, then slice it and drizzle with more garlic butter before serving!

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, use the microwave or skillet over low heat, adding broth or water to keep it moist. Can freeze for up to three months.