Apple Stuffed Turkey Tenderloins
Juicy turkey tenderloins stuffed with sweet apple and citrus flavors, coated in crunchy crumbs, perfect for a comforting and elegant meal for family or guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine diced apple, orange juice, cranberry sauce, and orange marmalade in a small saucepan.
- Cook until the apple is soft but still holds its shape.
- Wipe tenderloins with a damp paper towel.
- Slice each tenderloin lengthwise to form a pocket.
- Spoon half of the apple mixture into each pocket.
- Secure the edges with toothpicks.
- Cut each tenderloin in half.
- Beat egg whites with water.
- Dip tenderloins in the egg mixture.
- Dredge in corn flake crumbs or seasoned bread crumbs.
- Place in a casserole dish not touching.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Serve the remaining sauce over the cooked turkey.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using Granny Smith apples for a tart contrast. If you don't have jellied cranberry sauce, a homemade version with fresh cranberries and sugar can be a great alternative. To save time, you can use pre-packaged corn flake crumbs or seasoned bread crumbs. Ensure the turkey is cooked through by using a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F.
Serving Suggestions
These apple stuffed turkey tenderloins pair beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad, such as Chef'S Fruit Salad, to complement the savory and sweet flavors. For a more hearty meal, serve with mashed potatoes or wild rice. Drizzle the remaining sauce over the dish for added moisture and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover turkey tenderloins can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the tenderloins in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, ensuring they retain moisture. Alternatively, you can microwave them briefly, covered, to prevent drying.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Apple Stuffed Turkey Tenderloins contains roughly 161 calories, with 5g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken instead of turkey for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute turkey tenderloins with chicken breast tenderloins. The cooking time may vary slightly, so ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The flavor profile will remain similar, making it a great alternative.
What can I use instead of orange marmalade?
If you don't have orange marmalade, you can use apricot jam or even a citrus-flavored syrup as a substitute. This will still provide a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the apple and cranberry mixture well.
How do I know when the turkey is done cooking?
The best way to check if your turkey tenderloins are fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the meat; it should read 165°F. If you don't have a thermometer, ensure the juices run clear when pierced with a fork.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).