If youโve ever dreamed of a roast turkey thatโs bursting with flavor and looks like it belongs in a holiday spread, this Stuffed Roast Turkey Breast with Sausage Stuffing is your answer. Imagine a succulent turkey breast, golden and crisp on the outside, hiding a savory, herb-packed sausage stuffing inside. Each slice reveals a beautiful swirl of meaty, aromatic goodnessโperfect for impressing family, friends, or even just treating yourself to a luxurious dinner.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.If you click and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Trust me, this is one of those dishes that feels celebratory without being intimidating. The aroma of roasted turkey and seasoned sausage filling your kitchen? Pure magic.
Recipe Origin
Roast turkey has long been the centerpiece of festive meals, especially in North America during Thanksgiving and Christmas. Stuffing inside the turkey breast takes the classic tradition up a notch, keeping the meat moist while infusing it with herby, savory flavors. This version combines Italian sausage, fresh herbs, and classic aromatics for a stuffing thatโs both hearty and flavorful.
Kitchen Tools Youโll Need
- Roasting pan
- Skillet for sautรฉing the stuffing
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine for securing the breast
- Meat thermometer (highly recommended)
Why Youโll Love Stuffed Roast Turkey Breast with Sausage Stuffing
Moist and Flavorful
The stuffing keeps the turkey breast tender and juicy while adding an extra layer of flavor.
Elegant Yet Simple
Looks like a centerpiece dish, but easy enough for a weeknight or special occasion.
Crowd-Pleasing
Everyone loves turkey and sausage togetherโitโs a classic combination that satisfies all palates.
Versatile
Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a light salad. The stuffing itself can also double as a side dish.
Make-Ahead Friendly
You can prepare the stuffing in advance, which makes assembly and roasting stress-free.
Chefโs Pro Tips for Perfect Results
- Butterfly the turkey breast carefully: This ensures even thickness and easy rolling.
- Sear before roasting: Lightly sear the turkey in a skillet to lock in juices.
- Donโt overstuff: Leave some room for expansion; overfilling can cause uneven cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: Turkey is safe to eat at 165ยฐF (74ยฐC), ensuring perfectly cooked meat.
- Rest before slicing: Allow the turkey to rest for 10โ15 minutes after roasting so juices redistribute.
Ingredients in Stuffed Roast Turkey Breast with Sausage Stuffing
Stuffing Filling
- Olive Oil or Butter: For sautรฉing aromatics and sausage.
- Celery and Onion: Classic base that adds sweetness and crunch.
- Garlic: Aromatic powerhouse that elevates every bite.
- Italian Sausage: The meaty, savory core of the stuffing.
- Fresh Herbs (Thyme, Oregano, Rosemary, Sage, Parsley): Bright, fragrant, and earthy.
- Chicken or Turkey Broth: Adds moisture and depth to the croutons.
- Croutons or Dried Stuffing Cubes: Provides structure and absorbs the savory flavors.
- Egg: Binds the stuffing together.
- Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings to round out the flavor.
Turkey
- Turkey Breast (Deboned and Skin-On): Tender, juicy, and perfect for stuffing.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Basic seasoning for the turkey skin and meat.
Instructions
Prepare the Stuffing
In a skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add diced celery, onion, and garlic, sautรฉing until softened and fragrant. Add the sausage, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Stir in fresh herbs, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Remove from heat and mix in croutons and beaten egg until evenly combined.
Prepare the Turkey Breast
Butterfly the turkey breast by slicing horizontally without cutting all the way through, then flatten slightly with a meat mallet or rolling pin to even thickness. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
Stuff the Turkey
Spread the prepared sausage stuffing evenly over the turkey breast, leaving a small border around the edges. Roll the turkey tightly and secure with kitchen twine or toothpicks.
Roast the Turkey
Preheat the oven to 375ยฐF (190ยฐC). Place the stuffed turkey breast in a roasting pan. Roast for 50โ60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165ยฐF (74ยฐC). Baste occasionally with pan juices to keep the meat moist.
Rest and Slice
Remove from the oven and let the turkey rest for 10โ15 minutes. Slice into thick, beautiful rounds, revealing the stuffing swirl inside. Serve hot.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 6
Calories per serving: ~450โ500 (depending on sausage and pan drippings)
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
How to Serve Stuffed Roast Turkey Breast with Sausage Stuffing
- Classic Dinner Plate: Pair with mashed potatoes, green beans, and cranberry sauce.
- Light Sides: Serve with roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or a simple arugula salad.
- Stuffing Side Dish: Extra stuffing can be served alongside for those who love seconds.
- Gravy: Pan drippings can be turned into a savory gravy for the turkey and stuffing.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
- Prepare Stuffing in Advance: Assemble up to a day before and refrigerate until ready to stuff.
- Leftovers: Store in an airtight container for up to 3โ4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in the oven to prevent drying out.
Variations to Try
- Apple and Cranberry Stuffing: Add diced apples and dried cranberries for a sweet-tart twist.
- Herb-Only Stuffing: Skip the sausage for a lighter, vegetarian-friendly stuffing.
- Cheese-Infused: Add shredded cheddar or gruyรจre to the stuffing for extra richness.
- Spicy Sausage: Use hot Italian sausage for a little kick.
Additional Tips
- Use kitchen twine to tie the turkey breast for even cooking and a professional presentation.
- Allow the turkey to rest completely before slicingโit keeps the slices intact and juicy.
- Save pan drippings to make gravy or to drizzle over slices when serving.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use turkey thighs instead of breast?
A1: Yes, but adjust cooking time as thighs are thicker and may need longer to reach safe internal temperature.
Q2: Can I make the stuffing vegetarian?
A2: Absolutelyโomit the sausage and add extra vegetables, nuts, or mushrooms for texture.
Q3: Can I freeze this turkey breast?
A3: You can freeze the unroasted stuffed turkey for up to 2 months; thaw fully before roasting.
Q4: How do I know when the turkey is done?
A4: Use a meat thermometerโthe center of the breast should reach 165ยฐF (74ยฐC).
Q5: Can I use pre-cooked sausage?
A5: Yes, just ensure itโs broken into small pieces and warmed through before mixing with croutons.
Q6: Can I make it ahead and roast later?
A6: Yes, assemble and refrigerate for a few hours before roasting.
Q7: Can I use pre-packaged stuffing mix?
A7: Yes, but fresh herbs and broth will enhance flavor significantly.
Q8: How do I prevent the turkey from drying out?
A8: Sear before roasting, baste with pan juices, and donโt overcook.
Q9: Can I add vegetables to the roasting pan?
A9: Yes! Carrots, parsnips, or small potatoes roast beautifully alongside the turkey.
Q10: Can I make mini versions for individual servings?
A10: Absolutelyโroll smaller turkey portions with stuffing for single-serving โturkey roulades.โ
Conclusion
This Stuffed Roast Turkey Breast with Sausage Stuffing is a show-stopping dish that combines the juiciness of turkey with the savory, herby goodness of classic sausage stuffing. Perfect for holidays, family dinners, or any occasion that deserves a little extra flair, itโs a recipe that looks impressive but is totally achievable at home.
From the golden-brown crust to the aromatic, flavorful stuffing inside, every bite is pure comfort and celebration. Serve it alongside your favorite sides, pour a little gravy, and enjoy the kind of meal that makes memories. Once you try this recipe, itโs going to be your go-to for festive feasts or a special weekend dinner.
PrintStuffed Roast Turkey Breast with Sausage Stuffing
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 6โ8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Stuffed Roast Turkey Breast with Sausage Stuffing features a tender, juicy turkey breast filled with a flavorful sausage and herb stuffing. Perfect for holidays or special dinners, itโs a show-stopping main course packed with classic savory flavors.
Ingredients
For the Sausage Stuffing
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced or crushed
- 8 ounces uncooked Italian sausage (about 2 links), casings removed
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped thyme, oregano, or rosemary (or 1 teaspoon ground & dried herbs)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage, or 1 teaspoon dried ground sage
- 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley
- 1.5 cups chicken or turkey broth
- 8 cups croutons or dried stuffing cubes, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
For the Turkey
- 3 pound turkey breast, de-boned and skin-on
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375ยฐF (190ยฐC).
- Make the stuffing: Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sautรฉ celery and onion until softened, about 3โ4 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
- Add sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned.
- Stir in fresh herbs (thyme, oregano/rosemary, sage), parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Remove from heat, then mix in croutons, beaten egg, and chicken broth. Stir until well combined and slightly moist.
- Prepare the turkey: Lay the de-boned turkey breast flat and season with salt and pepper.
- Place the stuffing evenly along the center of the turkey breast. Roll the breast tightly and secure with kitchen twine.
- Place stuffed turkey breast in a roasting pan and roast for 60โ75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165ยฐF (74ยฐC).
- Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with extra stuffing on the side if desired.
Notes
- You can add dried cranberries or nuts to the stuffing for extra flavor and texture.
- Make sure to let the turkey rest after roasting to retain juices.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey is fully cooked but not overdone.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice with stuffing
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
/