Turkey Roulade Recipe

This Turkey Roulade Recipe with Cranberry Stuffing is a delightful dish that brings warmth and flavor to any occasion. Perfect for Thanksgiving or holiday gatherings, this recipe showcases tender turkey filled with a sweet and savory stuffing. It’s not just delicious; it’s also visually appealing, making it a centerpiece for your festive table. With easy preparation and incredible taste, this Turkey Roulade is sure to impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Filling: The cranberry stuffing adds a unique sweetness that pairs perfectly with the savory turkey.
• Impressive Presentation: The roulade shape makes for an elegant presentation that will wow your guests.
• Easy to Prepare: This recipe is straightforward, making it ideal for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy this dish for holidays or any special dinner, ensuring you have a standout meal on any occasion.
• Leftover Friendly: Any leftovers can be used in sandwiches or salads, reducing waste and enhancing future meals.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes preparing this Turkey Roulade Recipe much easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Meat mallet or rolling pin
• Mixing bowl
• Sharp knife
• Cooking twine

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even cooking and easy cleanup.
• Meat mallet or rolling pin: These tools help flatten the turkey breast evenly for optimal rolling.
• Mixing bowl: Using a large mixing bowl allows you to combine stuffing ingredients thoroughly without mess.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife is crucial for slicing the turkey roulade neatly after cooking.

Ingredients

This Turkey Roulade with Cranberry Stuffing is perfect for a smaller gathering during the holidays.

For the Turkey

• 1 large boneless turkey breast half with skin (about 2 1/2 lbs)
• 1-1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 6 to 8 pieces cooking tapple vinegar

For the Stuffing

• 1 teaspoon salted butter (softened)
• 5 ounces whole wheat french bread (cut into small cubes)
• 1/2 tablespoon butter
• 1/2 medium onion (minced)
• 1 large stalk celery (minced)
• 4 fresh sage leaves (minced)
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon turkey or poultry seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt and fresh pepper (to taste)
• 1 large egg (beaten)
• 3/4 cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons dried cranberries (chopped)

For the Gravy

• 2 cups turkey or chicken broth
• 2 leaves fresh sage
• 3/4 teaspoon turkey or poultry seasoning
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

How to Make Turkey Roulade Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Breast

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the turkey breast on a clean surface. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the turkey until it is about ½ inch thick. This step helps ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Make the Stuffing

In a mixing bowl, combine softened butter, onion, celery, sage leaves, parsley, poultry seasoning, salt, pepper, beaten egg, chicken broth, dried cranberries, and cubed bread. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Roulade

Spread the stuffing evenly over the flattened turkey breast. Roll the turkey tightly from one end to another like a log. Secure with cooking twine at both ends and in between if necessary.

Step 4: Bake the Roulade

Place the roulade seam-side down on a baking sheet. Brush with olive oil or additional melted butter if desired. Bake in your preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Make the Gravy

While the roulade bakes, prepare gravy by combining broth and flour in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk until smooth and bring to a simmer. Add sage leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve

Once cooked through, remove the turkey roulade from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve slices drizzled with warm gravy alongside your favorite sides. Enjoy!

How to Serve Turkey Roulade Recipe

Serving turkey roulade is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary flavors. This dish can be the star of any holiday table, making it perfect for gatherings or intimate dinners.

Pair with Seasonal Vegetables

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: These add a nutty flavor that pairs well with the turkey.
• Sautéed green beans: Lightly seasoned green beans provide a crisp contrast to the rich stuffing.

Accompany with Cranberry Sauce

• Homemade cranberry sauce: A tangy sauce enhances the turkey’s flavors and adds a festive touch.

Serve with Gravy

• Rich turkey gravy: Drizzling homemade gravy over the sliced roulade adds moisture and depth to each bite.

Presentation Tips

• Slice neatly into rounds: Arrange slices on a platter for an elegant display.
• Garnish with fresh herbs: Adding sage leaves or parsley enhances both look and flavor.

How to Perfect Turkey Roulade Recipe

Creating the perfect turkey roulade takes practice and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Choose the right turkey breast: Opt for a large boneless turkey breast half for even cooking and easy rolling.
• Prep ingredients in advance: Having all your components ready will streamline the process and help avoid last-minute stress.
• Don’t skip seasoning: Adequately seasoning both the turkey and stuffing enhances flavor significantly.
• Use a meat thermometer: Ensure your turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety and juiciness.
• Let it rest before slicing: Allowing the roulade to rest helps retain its juices, resulting in a moist serving.

Best Side Dishes for Turkey Roulade Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your turkey roulade can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider that complement the main dish beautifully.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer comfort alongside the savory turkey.
2. Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet, roasted carrots add color and sweetness, balancing out the savory flavors of the roulade.
3. Stuffing: A classic side; prepare it separately or use extra stuffing from your roulade recipe as a side dish.
4. Cranberry Relish Salad: A refreshing salad can provide a bright contrast, combining tangy cranberries with crisp greens.
5. Buttery Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn pairs wonderfully with turkey, providing a satisfying crunch when served fresh.
6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Natural sweetness enhances the meal while adding vibrant color to your plate.
7. Spinach Salad with Balsamic Dressing: A light salad topped with nuts offers freshness and texture against richer dishes.
8. Green Bean Casserole: This classic dish brings warmth and nostalgia to any holiday table, complementing the turkey beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Turkey Roulade turns out perfectly, be aware of these common mistakes.

• Not Brining the Turkey: Failing to brine can lead to a dry roulade. Soak it in a saltwater solution before cooking to enhance moisture.
• Skipping the Resting Period: Cutting the roulade immediately after cooking can cause juices to escape. Let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
• Overstuffing the Roulade: Adding too much stuffing makes it hard to roll and cook evenly. Use just enough filling so you can roll it tightly without overflowing.
• Ignoring Internal Temperature: Cooking without checking the temperature can lead to undercooked or overcooked turkey. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C).
• Using Dried Out Bread for Stuffing: Stale bread won’t absorb moisture well, affecting flavor. Choose fresh bread or lightly toast it for better results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Turkey Roulade Recipe

• Wrap tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Turkey Roulade Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place slices on a microwave-safe plate and cover. Heat in short intervals, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth. Cover until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding the Turkey Roulade Recipe.

How long does it take to cook the Turkey Roulade?

Cooking the Turkey Roulade takes about 60 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Always check for doneness using a meat thermometer.

Can I make this Turkey Roulade ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and roll the turkey a day ahead. Store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

What can I serve with my Turkey Roulade?

Pair your Turkey Roulade with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Is this Turkey Roulade recipe suitable for holidays?

Absolutely! The Turkey Roulade is perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas gatherings due to its festive flavors and presentation.

Final Thoughts

This Turkey Roulade Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize it with different herbs or add nuts and fruits to the stuffing. Give it a try; your guests will love it!