Looking to elevate your holiday turkey to new extraordinary heights this year? Stuffing a whole turkey with sweet, tropical pineapple is sure to make a memorable impression on your guests. The flavor contrast of juicy turkey and bright tangy pineapple is incredible. In this article I’ll guide you through preparing and roasting pineapple stuffed turkey for a showstopping centerpiece entrée.

Benefits of Cooking Turkey Stuffed with Pineapple

Stuffing a turkey with pineapple offers several advantages

• Moisturizes the turkey meat from the inside out as the juice released from the pineapple bastes it during cooking. This keeps the breast meat especially tender and juicy.

• Adds a sweet, fruity flavor that beautifully complements and balances the savory turkey.

• Imparts some enzymes from the pineapple that help break down the turkey proteins, further tenderizing the meat.

• Creates an impressive presentation when sliced at the table to reveal the colorful pineapple filling.

• Allows using the pineapple-infused drippings for making gravy and sauces.

Ingredients Needed for Stuffing Turkey with Pineapple

Here’s what you’ll need to make this recipe:

• 1 whole turkey (12-15 lbs), giblets removed
• 1 fresh pineapple
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 stalks celery, diced
• 1 Granny Smith apple, peeled and diced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1⁄4 cup brandy (optional)
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• Salt and pepper

You can adjust ingredient amounts depending on the size of your turkey. Select a ripe, juicy pineapple without any soft spots.

Step-by-Step Guide for Preparing Pineapple Stuffed Turkey

Follow these simple steps for successful pineapple stuffed turkey:

1. Clean turkey inside and out, removing any excess fat and skin. Pat dry.

2. Peel, core, and dice enough pineapple to yield 2 cups. Reserve any extra juice.

3. In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Sauté onion, celery, and apple 5 minutes until softened.

4. Add pineapple, broth, brandy, and thyme to skillet. Cook 2 minutes more. Season with salt and pepper.

5. Allow filling to cool while you prepare the turkey. Preheat oven to 350°F.

6. Fill neck and body cavities of the turkey loosely with the pineapple mixture. Close up the openings with skewers and kitchen twine.

7. Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons butter. Brush turkey all over with the butter and season with salt and pepper.

8. Place turkey breast up on a roasting rack in a shallow roasting pan. Add 1 cup water to the bottom of the pan.

9. Roast turkey, basting occasionally with pan drippings, until internal temperature in thigh reaches 165°F, about 3 hours.

10. Transfer turkey to a platter, tent with foil, and allow to rest 20 minutes before carving.

Your pineapple stuffed turkey is ready to wow your guests! Dig in and enjoy this super moist, fruity twist on a holiday classic.

Variations for Stuffing Turkey with Pineapple

While fresh pineapple makes a great base, you can vary the filling and flavors:

• Use dried pineapple rings reconstituted in orange juice for a tropical vibe.

• Add coconut flakes, chopped mango, or banana peppers for different flavors.

• Stir in chopped cilantro or green onion for freshness.

• For heat, add diced jalapeño or crushed red pepper flakes.

• Use spiced rum, orange juice, or pineapple juice instead of brandy.

• Top with crushed pineapple glaze after baking for a sweet, shiny finish.

Tips for Making the Best Pineapple Stuffed Turkey

Follow these tips for the perfect pineapple stuffed turkey:

• Use fresh, ripe pineapple at room temperature. It releases more juice than chilled.

• Cook the filling ahead of time to allow flavors to meld. Just spoon into turkey cavity before roasting.

• Don’t overstuff the cavity or the pineapple can’t exude moisture properly.

• Maintain oven temperature at 350°F for even cooking. Cook to minimum safe 165°F.

• Baste every 30 minutes using a turkey baster and juices from the pan.

• Let rest 20-30 minutes before carving for easily sliced meat.

Serving Your Pineapple Stuffed Turkey Creation

Your pineapple stuffed turkey deserves some complementary sides and flavors. Here are some options:

• Jasmine rice or tropical fruit flavored couscous
• Roasted sweet potatoes or butternut squash
• Green beans with toasted coconut and almonds
• Cranberry chutney or pineapple salsa
• Hawaiian dinner rolls
• Pineapple upside down cake for dessert

Slicing into the juicy turkey at the table and revealing the bright pineapple stuffing is sure to elicit oohs and aahs. What a festive way to shake up your traditional turkey dinner!

Make This the Year for Memorable Pineapple Stuffed Turkey

Let pineapple work its magic on your holiday turkey. With just a few extra steps, you’ll have a masterpiece entrée that looks and tastes incredible. Moist turkey infused with sweet, tangy tropical pineapple is truly unforgettable. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try this year and wow your guests with your skill as a chef! This will surely be a holiday meal they’ll rave about for years to come.