Christmas Stuffed Turkey Breast is a beautiful holiday dish made with tender butterflied turkey breast rolled around a festive filling of spinach, herbs, cheese, breadcrumbs, then roasted until golden and juicy. It reminds me of those cozy Christmas dinners when the kitchen filled with warm smells of herbs and butter, and slicing into a stuffed turkey roll felt like opening a delicious holiday gift. This Christmas Stuffed Turkey Breast is simple, elegant, and perfect when you want a smaller, easier version of a whole turkey but still want something festive, flavorful, and comforting for your holiday table.
INGREDIENTS
1 large turkey breast (2–3 lbs, butterflied)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried thyme
Kitchen twine
For the stuffing:
1 tbsp butter
2 cups fresh spinach (chopped)
2 garlic cloves (minced)
1/4 cup cream cheese or shredded mozzarella
1/3 cup breadcrumbs
1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
For the herb butter rub:
3 tbsp softened butter
1/2 tsp dried rosemary
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lay the butterflied turkey breast flat on a large cutting board. Cover with plastic wrap and gently pound with a meat mallet until even and thin. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme.
Step 2: In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add spinach and garlic and cook for 2–3 minutes until wilted.
Step 3: Add cream cheese or mozzarella, breadcrumbs, parsley, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until fully combined and slightly cooled.
Step 4: Spread the stuffing evenly over the turkey breast, leaving a small border around the edges.
Step 5: Starting from the long side, roll the turkey breast tightly into a log. Secure it with kitchen twine in 4–5 places to hold the shape.
Step 6: Mix softened butter with rosemary, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this herb butter all over the rolled turkey.
Step 7: Place the stuffed turkey breast seam-side down in a baking dish.
Step 8: Roast uncovered for 55–70 minutes, or until the center reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 9: Allow the turkey to rest for 10 minutes, then slice into thick, beautiful spirals showing the festive stuffing.
Variations
• Add cooked sausage to the stuffing
• Use kale instead of spinach
• Add chopped pecans or walnuts
• Add cranberries or dried cherries
• Add mozzarella for a cheesier filling
COOKING NOTES
• Pound turkey evenly for easy rolling
• Spread stuffing lightly to avoid overflow
• Tie tightly for a clean spiral shape
• Let rest before slicing for juicy slices
• Use a thermometer for perfect doneness
Serving suggestions
• Serve with mashed potatoes
• Pair with roasted vegetables
• Add gravy or pan drippings
• Serve with cranberry sauce
• Garnish with rosemary sprigs
Tips
• Don’t overstuff the turkey
• Chill the stuffing briefly to thicken
• Slice with a sharp knife
• Save pan juices for extra flavor
• Use fresh herbs for stronger aroma
Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 85 minutes
Nutritional Information
(Per serving, based on 6 servings)
Calories: ~380
Fat: 19g
Carbohydrates: 9g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 42g
FAQs
Why is my turkey breast falling apart?
- It may not have been rolled tightly; use kitchen twine to secure firmly.
Can I make it ahead?
- Yes, assemble the stuffed roll the day before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake the next day.
Can I Add the cranberries?
- Yes, they add sweetness but are optional.
Can I use turkey tenderloin?
- Yes, but you may need two tenderloins butterflied and overlapped.
Can I freeze leftovers?
- Yes, freeze slices for up to 2 months.
Conclusion
Christmas Stuffed Turkey Breast is a festive, flavorful holiday centerpiece that delivers all the warmth and comfort of Christmas dinner without the work of cooking a whole turkey. With its tender meat, colorful stuffing, and golden herb crust, this dish looks elegant on the table and tastes even better. Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or adding another special dish to your Christmas spread, this stuffed turkey breast brings cheer, flavor, and holiday comfort in every slice.