Brown Sugar Garlic Turkey Tenderloin
This Brown Sugar Garlic Turkey Tenderloin is SO EASY! Sweet, savory, and juicy, it’s perfect for busy nights and impresses every time.
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds turkey tenderloin lean and tender
- ¼ cup brown sugar adds warmth and caramelized sweetness
- ¼ cup soy sauce opt for low-sodium if preferred
- 3 cloves garlic minced, fresh
- 1 tablespoon olive oil helps in searing and adds subtle richness
- 1 teaspoon ginger grated
- 1 teaspoon black pepper for mild heat and complexity
- 1 teaspoon salt enhances all flavors
- 2 green onions chopped, fresh garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Marinade
- In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, grated ginger, black pepper, and salt. Whisk everything together until the sugar dissolves and the ingredients form a smooth, aromatic marinade.
Marinate the Turkey
- Place your turkey tenderloin in a large resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the turkey, ensuring it’s well-coated on all sides. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2-4 hours for maximum flavor infusion.
Preheat and Sear
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the turkey from the marinade, reserving the marinade for later. Sear the tenderloin on all sides until it’s golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. This step locks in juices and adds a beautiful crust.
Roast the Turkey
- Once seared, pour the reserved marinade over the turkey in the skillet. Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check doneness for perfectly cooked turkey.
Rest and Garnish
- Remove the skillet from the oven and let the turkey rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender. Slice the tenderloin into medallions and garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk or fork
- Large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish
- Cast Iron Skillet or Oven-Safe Pan
- Tongs
- Meat Thermometer
- Oven
Notes
- Marinate the turkey for at least 30 minutes to ensure deep flavor infusion.
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking and keep the turkey juicy.
- Pat the turkey dry before searing to prevent the marinade from burning.
- Freeze marinated turkey for up to 3 months for easy make-ahead meals.
- Substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a soy-free option.