The tenderloin, a boneless, skinless portion of the turkey breast, is one of the most tender parts of a turkey. It’s favored by turkey connoisseurs because it can be cooked in so many different ways. The tenderloin is a staple in a variety of cuisines, which is a testament to its versatility.
Cooking the turkey tenderloin in an air fryer is an excellent idea, as its tenderness and juiciness will shine through when it’s done. Our turkey breast tenderloins come seasoned and pre-marinated, and you can add seasoning and spices to your preference.
Read on to see how to cook turkey tenderloin in an air fryer and for some serving suggestions!
Turkey tenderloin is a delicious, lean cut of meat that can easily dry out if overcooked. When baking turkey tenderloin, using the right temperature is key to ensuring it turns out juicy and tender every time. So how long should you bake turkey tenderloin at 350°F for ideal results?
Why Bake at 350°F?
Baking turkey tenderloin between 325-375°F strikes the perfect balance between thoroughly cooking the meat while retaining moisture. 350°F is right in the ideal range for baking lean poultry cuts like tenderloin
Here’s why 350°F is a great temperature for turkey tenderloin
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Cooks the tenderloin evenly from edge to center.
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Allows the exterior to get lightly browned and crispy.
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Keeps the interior juicy rather than drying it out.
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Doesn’t require special equipment – just a standard oven.
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Cooks the tenderloin in a reasonable amount of time
Higher temperatures above 375°F risk drying out the tenderloin quickly before the center is cooked through. Lower temperatures below 325°F make for moist meat but require significantly longer baking times.
Recommended Bake Time at 350°F
When baking turkey tenderloins at 350°F, the ideal bake time is around 30-40 minutes.
For 1-2 tenderloins that are approximately 4 ounces each, bake at 350°F for 30-35 minutes. Larger tenderloins may need 35-40 minutes.
Always rely on an instant-read thermometer to judge doneness rather than time. The tenderloins are done when the thickest part reaches 165°F internally. Letting them rest 5 minutes before slicing allows juices to redistribute.
Step-by-Step Method for Juicy Turkey Tenderloin
Follow this simple baking method for foolproof juicy turkey tenderloin every time:
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Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment.
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Pat turkey tenderloins dry and coat all over with olive oil. Season generously with salt, pepper, herbs.
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Arrange tenderloins evenly on the baking sheet. They can be close but shouldn’t overlap.
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Bake 30-40 minutes until 165°F internal temperature. Baste halfway through.
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Remove turkey from oven and tent loosely with foil. Let rest 5-10 minutes before slicing.
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Slice tenderloins and serve warm! Enjoy with your favorite sides.
Cooking Tips for Moist, Flavorful Results
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Use fresh, never frozen tenderloins for optimal texture. Thaw fully if using frozen.
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Dry the raw tenderloins well so seasoning adheres and exterior browns better.
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Add aromatic ingredients like garlic, herbs, citrus to the oil coating for extra flavor.
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Lightly baste tenderloins during baking to prevent drying out.
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Allow to rest before slicing so juices can absorb back into the meat.
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Cook to proper internal temperature to eliminate bacteria without overbaking.
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Add a sauce, cheese, or crunchy topping to provide contrasting textures.
Baking turkey tenderloins at 350°F for 30-40 minutes results in tender, juicy meat that makes for amazing sandwiches, salads and more. With the right time and temperature, you’ll have delicious baked turkey tenderloin anytime.
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WHAT TO SERVE WITH AIR FRYER TURKEY TENDERLOINS
Turkey breast tenderloins are an incredibly versatile protein. They can be served in a variety of dishes, including salads, entrees, and even on sandwiches. They can be cooked in relatively short order, with a cook time of 30 minutes or less. No wonder turkey tenderloins are a household staple.
If you’re looking for turkey breast tenderloin inspiration, here are a few great recipes to consider.
How to Cook Turkey Tenderloins
FAQ
What temperature to cook turkey tenderloin?
Steps. Preheat oven to 425°. Arrange turkey breast tenderloins on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Rub with oil and season with salt and pepper.
How long does it take for a turkey to cook in the oven on 350?
The most straightforward approach is to roast an unstuffed turkey, breast-side up, for 13 minutes per pound of turkey at 350°. That works out to approximately 3 hours for a 12- to 14-pound bird (a 12-pound turkey is pretty standard).
Is turkey tenderloin the same as turkey breast?
Turkey tenderloin is a smaller, leaner, and more tender cut from the inside of the turkey breast, while turkey breast refers to the entire breast, which is larger and can include bones and skin. Both are lean, but I find the tenderloin to be so much more tender.
How do you know when turkey tenderloin is done?
How do you know turkey tenderloin is done? According to the USDA, turkey tenderloin needs to have an internal temp of 165ºF. Try it! We swear by using a meat thermometer when cooking any cut of meat.