Introduction

The holidays are a time for gathering and feasting, and a stunning turkey roulade makes for a beautiful centerpiece that delights everyone at the table. This dish combines tender turkey with the sweet and tart notes of cranberries, complemented by the earthy flavor of sage. It's a dish that feels both festive and comforting, perfect for any celebration.

A turkey roulade is not only visually appealing but also offers a practical solution for serving a crowd. By rolling the turkey breast, you create an evenly cooked dish with a delightful stuffing in every slice. This technique also allows for quicker cooking times than a traditional whole turkey, making it an ideal choice for home cooks looking to impress without being overwhelmed.

Ingredients

2 pounds boneless turkey breast
The star of the roulade, turkey breast is lean and tender. Using a boneless cut makes rolling easier and helps achieve even cooking.
1 cup fresh cranberries
These add a vibrant tartness that balances the savory flavors of the stuffing. Fresh cranberries provide a burst of color and a natural sweetness when cooked.
1 cup bread crumbs
Bread crumbs serve as the base for the stuffing, helping to absorb moisture and bind all ingredients together, creating a cohesive texture.
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
Onions bring a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the stuffing, enhancing the overall taste without overpowering other ingredients.
1/4 cup chopped fresh sage
Sage offers a robust, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with turkey and complements the sweetness of the cranberries, adding a savory note.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Black pepper adds a mild heat and complexity, enhancing the flavors of the ingredients without being overly spicy.
1 teaspoon salt
Salt is essential for enhancing flavors and ensuring that the turkey and stuffing are well-seasoned throughout.
1/2 cup chicken broth
Chicken broth adds moisture to the stuffing, keeping it tender while contributing a savory depth to the dish.
1 tablespoon olive oil
Using olive oil helps to sauté the aromatics, creating a flavorful base for the stuffing while also preventing sticking.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Parmesan adds a rich, nutty flavor and a touch of creaminess to the stuffing, enriching each bite.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Preheating the oven ensures that the turkey cooks evenly from the start. A well-heated oven will help achieve that golden-brown exterior that is so appealing.

Step 2: Prepare the stuffing by sautéing onions in olive oil until translucent.

Sautéing onions in olive oil enhances their flavor and promotes sweetness through caramelization. This step adds a rich, savory foundation for your stuffing.

Step 3: Add fresh cranberries, sage, bread crumbs, chicken broth, salt, and pepper to the sautéed onions.

This combination brings together the stuffing’s textures and flavors. The moisture from the broth and cranberries ensures the stuffing remains moist while baking.

Step 4: Place the turkey breast skin-side down on a cutting board and pound it to an even thickness.

Pounding the turkey creates a uniform thickness, allowing for even cooking and easier rolling. This step helps prevent some parts from overcooking while others remain underdone.

Step 5: Spread the stuffing evenly over the turkey breast, leaving a border.

Distributing the stuffing evenly allows for a consistent roll, ensuring every slice contains stuffing. The border helps to seal the roulade without spilling filling.

Step 6: Roll the turkey tightly from one end to another and secure with kitchen twine.

Rolling tightly ensures that the stuffing stays inside during cooking. The kitchen twine keeps the roulade intact while also enhancing presentation when served.

Step 7: Season the outside of the roulade with additional salt and pepper.

Seasoning the exterior enhances flavor and ensures that every bite is tasty. A well-seasoned surface will create a delicious crust when roasted.

Step 8: Place the roulade seam-side down in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.

Drizzling olive oil helps to brown the turkey as it cooks, adding flavor and promoting a lovely golden crust. The seam-side down position reduces the chance of stuffing leaking.

Step 9: Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Cooking until the turkey reaches the safe internal temperature ensures that it is juicy and safe to eat. An instant-read thermometer helps achieve accuracy.

Step 10: Let the roulade rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.

Resting allows the juices to redistribute, preventing dryness when slicing. Patience at this stage is key for a tender and moist serving.

Turkey Roulade with Cranberry-Sage Stuffing step photo

The Importance of a Good Stuffing

A delicious stuffing is vital to the success of a turkey roulade. It adds layers of flavor and texture, elevating the dish from simple to extraordinary. The sweet-tart cranberries paired with aromatic sage create a dynamic balance that complements the mild turkey meat. Since the stuffing is enclosed, every slice reveals that delightful medley, making each bite satisfying.

Rolling Technique for Perfect Slices

Mastering the rolling technique is essential for creating a visually stunning roulade. Start with a uniformly pounded turkey breast to ensure consistent thickness, which prevents uneven cooking. When rolling, apply gentle pressure and maintain a tight form without squeezing too hard; this approach will keep the stuffing intact, ensuring beautifully spiraled slices once cooked.

Enhancing Flavor with Marinades and Herbs

For those looking to take their turkey roulade a step further, consider marinating the meat overnight with herbs and citrus. This infuses additional flavors and juiciness into the turkey, making it even more delectable. Sage, rosemary, or thyme infused in a simple olive oil and lemon zest marinade can provide aromatic undertones, enriching your final dish.

FAQs

What if my stuffing is too dry?

If the stuffing seems dry after cooking, you can moisten it gradually with a bit of extra chicken broth while still in the roulade. Unroll, add moisture, and re-roll to cook more.

Can I use leftover bread for the stuffing?

Absolutely! Leftover bread works well for this recipe. Just ensure it’s slightly dried out to absorb the moisture without becoming mushy.

How can I prevent the turkey from being bland?

Ensure you generously season both the turkey and the stuffing. Add extra herbs or spices to the stuffing for added flavor and season the exterior well.

If my roulade is overcooked, how can I salvage it?

If overcooked, a creamy sauce or gravy can help moisten the slices. Serve it alongside to enhance flavor while adding moisture.

What size turkey breast should I use for a smaller gathering?

For smaller gatherings, a 1.5-pound turkey breast can be used. Simply adjust the stuffing ingredients by about 25%.

Can I add nuts to the stuffing?

Yes, adding chopped walnuts or pecans can provide a great crunch and additional flavor. Mix them in when combining the stuffing ingredients.

Conclusion

This turkey roulade with cranberry-sage stuffing captures the essence of the holidays beautifully, offering a perfect blend of flavors that appeal to all palates. With preparation and attention to detail, you can create a memorable meal that your family and friends will cherish.

As you embark on making this dish, remember that the journey is as delightful as the destination. Enjoy the process, savor the aromas, and revel in the joy of creating something special for your loved ones.

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