One of the best ways to cook turkey tenderloin is to bake it in the oven the juicy perfection. The best part is, you dont have to wait for a special holiday to enjoy it.
Even better, theres so little fuss involved when you bake turkey tenderloin in the oven compared to preparing the whole bird. Just make sure you cook turkey tenderloin in a way that preserves the juices and moisture.
Below, we share a simple recipe with tips on how to cook turkey tenderloin so its juicy, tender and flavorful.
Turkey tenderloin should be cooked to a minimum internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit, according to the USDA. Eating poultry cooked to temperatures below this puts you at risk for foodborne illness.
Insert your meat thermometer into the thickest part of the turkey tenderloin to check the internal temperature.
Turkey tenderloins are a delicious lean cut of meat that can easily dry out if not cooked properly. With the right technique you can bake irresistibly moist, flavorful turkey tenderloins in the oven in under 30 minutes.
Here is a step-by-step guide to cooking turkey tenderloins in the oven for ideal texture and taste every time,
What are Turkey Tenderloins?
Turkey tenderloins, also called turkey medallions or turkey fillets, are premium cuts of boneless, skinless white meat from the area between the breast.
Compared to turkey breast, tenderloins are smaller in size but more tender and succulent in texture. Many regard them as the most tender part of the turkey.
When purchasing, look for packages of 1-2 tenderloins that are approximately 4 ounces each.
Why Cook Turkey Tenderloins in the Oven?
The oven allows you to cook turkey tenderloins slowly and evenly without drying them out. Key benefits of using the oven include:
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Achieves even cooking throughout the lean meat.
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Provides better moisture retention than high-heat pan searing alone.
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Lets you easily monitor doneness and prevent overcooking.
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Allows you to sear the tenderloins first for enhanced flavor.
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Requires just a standard oven – no special equipment needed.
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Enables easy cleanup with foil-lined baking sheet.
Step-by-Step Method for Oven-Baked Tenderloins
Follow these simple steps for baked turkey tenderloins that are tender and juicy.
Ingredients:
- 2 turkey tenderloins, around 4 oz. each
- Olive oil
- Seasonings of your choice (salt, pepper, herbs like thyme or sage work well)
Directions:
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Heat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with foil.
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Pat tenderloins dry and coat all over with olive oil. Generously season both sides.
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Sear tenderloins in a hot skillet for 1 minute per side.
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Transfer to baking sheet and bake 12-15 minutes until 155°F internally.
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Let rest 5-10 minutes until temperature reaches 165°F.
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Slice and serve turkey tenderloins warm.
Helpful Tips for Oven-Baked Tenderloins
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Make sure tenderloins are patted very dry before searing to help browning.
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Use a hot skillet for searing to lock in juices.
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Rely on a meat thermometer for doneness – remove at 155°F.
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Letting turkey rest after baking allows juices to redistribute.
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Adjust bake times slightly based on size of tenderloins.
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Add moisture by basting with broth or drizzling olive oil.
What Temperature is Best for Baking Tenderloins?
The ideal oven temperature for baking turkey tenderloins is between 325°F and 375°F. This slower roasting prevents drying out the lean meat.
Baking at 350°F strikes the perfect balance between thorough, even cooking and retaining moisture. Turkey tenderloins bake beautifully in a 350°F oven in just 15-20 minutes.
Helpful Questions About Cooking Tenderloins in the Oven
How long should I bake turkey tenderloins at 350°F?
For 1-2 tenderloins around 4 oz. each, bake at 350°F for 12-15 minutes until 155°F internally before resting.
Should turkey tenderloins be baked covered or uncovered?
Bake turkey tenderloins uncovered for ideal browning and even cooking. Tent with foil while resting after baking.
What is the minimum safe internal temperature for turkey tenderloins?
Cook tenderloins in the oven until 155°F, then let rest until 165°F for food safety. Rely on a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Can you grill turkey tenderloins instead of baking them?
Yes, grilled turkey tenderloins are delicious in summer! Grill over direct medium heat 6-8 minutes per side until 155°F internal temp.
Master Moist Oven Baked Turkey Tenderloins
With a simple sear-and-bake technique, you can cook irresistibly tender, juicy turkey tenderloins in the oven. Follow this easy method for incredible texture and flavor. Enjoy your delicious oven-baked tenderloins for any meal occasion!
Bake the Tenderloins
Roast the turkey tenderloins in the oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 25 to 40 minutes.
The exact cooking time varies by how many tenderloins youre cooking at one time. Check your turkey tenderloins after 20 minutes at five-minute intervals for doneness.
How to Bake Turkey Tenderloin in the Oven
- 1/2- to 1-pound turkey tenderloin
- 1 to 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
- Salt and pepper
- Baking dish
- Meat thermometer
How to Cook Turkey Tenderloins
FAQ
What temperature to cook turkey tenderloin in the oven?
- Preheat oven to 425°.
- Arrange turkey breast tenderloins on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Rub with oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Roast turkey tenderloins 25–35 min. (depending on tenderloin size), until a meat thermometer registers 165℉ in the thickest part. Let rest for 5 min., and slice to serve.
How to cook Jennie O’ turkey tenderloin in the oven?
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Put the tenderloins in a shallow baking pan.
- Bake until the thickest section of the meat reaches 165°F, which takes about 60–70 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and cover.
- Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
What is the difference between a turkey breast and a turkey tenderloin?
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 long to cook turkey strips in the oven?
Lay turkey strips onto a non-stick baking tray. Turning half way, bake at 400F° for 14-16 minutes or until an internal temperature of 165°F is reached.