If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dinner that’s surprisingly quick to pull together, then you’re going to want to stick around for this one. My Easy Garlic Turkey Tenderloin with Gravy Recipe is one of those dishes that feels special yet is so easy you’ll want to make it on repeat. When I first tried this, I was blown away by how tender the turkey turns out and how the garlic gravy ties everything together for that perfect, savory finish. Whether you’re prepping for a small get-together or just craving a comforting meal, this recipe has your back.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: You can have dinner on the table in just 25 minutes, no complicated steps required.
- Juicy Turkey Tenderloin: This method keeps the turkey moist and tender every time.
- Rich Garlic Gravy: The gravy is silky, flavorful, and easy enough to whip up on a weeknight.
- Family Favorite: My family goes crazy for this one and I bet yours will too.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients in this Easy Garlic Turkey Tenderloin with Gravy Recipe work hand-in-hand to build deep flavor with minimal effort. I always recommend using good-quality poultry seasoning and fresh garlic — it really makes a difference.

- Turkey tenderloins: Look for fresh, evenly sized tenderloins for consistent cooking.
- Fine sea salt: Helps enhance natural flavors without overpowering.
- Poultry seasoning: Contains savory herbs that bring warmth to the dish.
- Avocado oil: I love this oil for searing because of its high smoke point and clean taste.
- Butter: Adds richness to the gravy and helps create the roux.
- Flour: The base for thickening your garlic gravy effortlessly.
- Garlic cloves: Freshly pressed or grated garlic shines best here—skip jarred garlic if you can!
- Organic beef broth: Using room temperature broth prevents lumps and deepens gravy flavor.
- Chopped parsley (optional): A fresh garnish that adds a bright pop of color.
Variations
One of my favorite things about this Easy Garlic Turkey Tenderloin with Gravy Recipe is how easy it is to tweak according to what you have on hand or your dietary needs. I like to mix it up and add my own twists.
- Herb Variations: Adding fresh thyme or rosemary to the mix gives it a lovely aromatic boost I discovered when craving something extra fragrant.
- Dairy-Free Option: Swap the butter for coconut oil or a vegan butter to keep it family-friendly for dairy-sensitive eaters.
- Spice it Up: A pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne adds a surprising warmth that my family absolutely loves.
- Bigger Batch: Double the gravy ingredients if you’re serving more people—just keep the turkey tenderloins coming!
How to Make Easy Garlic Turkey Tenderloin with Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Turkey Tenderloins
Start by patting your turkey tenderloins dry with paper towels so they brown beautifully. Then, sprinkle with fine sea salt and poultry seasoning on all sides. Heat the avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat—once that oil gets shimmering, add the tenderloins. Sear until golden brown on each side, typically about 3-4 minutes per side. You want a nice crust, but don’t overcook because they’ll finish in the pan later. I always set a timer here; there’s nothing worse than dry tough turkey!
Step 2: Make the Garlic Gravy
Once your turkey is seared, remove it from the pan and set it aside loosely covered. Reduce heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet with those flavorful browned bits. When melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux—this is the base of your gravy! Cook the roux for about 1-2 minutes until it turns a light golden color. Then, stir in the freshly grated or pressed garlic. Slowly pour in the room temperature beef broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the gravy thickens to your liking, about 3-5 minutes. Season with a pinch of sea salt, then nestle your turkey back into the pan to warm through.
Step 3: Rest and Garnish
Once the turkey is heated through and the gravy is silky and fragrant, remove from the heat. Let the tenderloins rest for a few minutes to keep them juicy. Before serving, sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a fresh contrast and an inviting pop of green. I find this simple step really elevates the dish without any extra work.
Pro Tips for Making Easy Garlic Turkey Tenderloin with Gravy Recipe
- Dry the Turkey Thoroughly: Patting the turkey dry is my secret for that perfect sear and golden crust.
- Use Room Temperature Broth: Adding cold broth can cause lumps in your gravy—warming it up first keeps the texture smooth.
- Don’t Skip the Resting: Letting the turkey rest after cooking keeps it juicy instead of drying out.
- Whisk Constantly: Steady whisking while adding broth ensures your homemade gravy stays silky without clumps.
How to Serve Easy Garlic Turkey Tenderloin with Gravy Recipe

Garnishes
I always top this turkey tenderloin with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley—not only does it brighten the dish visually, but it adds a subtle freshness that pairs beautifully with the rich garlic gravy. Sometimes, I also add a few lemon zest shreds for a zesty zing if I’m feeling adventurous.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes because the garlic gravy soaks right in. Roasted green beans or sautéed mushrooms also bring lovely earthy notes that complement the turkey. On a busy night, I love serving it with simple steamed broccoli and a warm crusty roll to soak up all that gravy.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elevated presentation when entertaining, I slice the turkey tenderloin and fan it out on a platter, drizzling the garlic gravy over the top. Garnishing with more fresh herbs like thyme or sage adds a festive touch. I’ve also layered the sliced turkey over a bed of wild rice pilaf for a centerpiece-worthy meal that looks as good as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I usually store leftover turkey tenderloin and garlic gravy separately in airtight containers in the fridge. This keeps the turkey from getting soggy and lets me reheat the gravy independently for better texture. Leftovers last about 3-4 days, giving you some easy meals later in the week.
Freezing
One trick I learned is to freeze the turkey tenderloin without the gravy for best results. Wrap the turkey tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or use a vacuum-sealed bag. The gravy freezes well in freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to eat, thaw both overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the turkey tenderloin gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C) covered with foil to keep it moist. Heat the gravy separately on the stovetop, whisking occasionally. Pour the warm gravy over your turkey right before serving to recreate that fresh-cooked flavor.
FAQs
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What if I don’t have turkey tenderloins? Can I use turkey breasts instead?
Absolutely! You can use turkey breasts cut into similar-sized pieces. Just be mindful that cooking times might be a bit longer and you’ll want to avoid overcooking to keep the meat tender and juicy.
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Can I make the garlic gravy without flour?
Yes, if you prefer a gluten-free option, you could substitute the flour with cornstarch or arrowroot powder. Use half the amount and mix it with a little cold broth before adding it to avoid lumps. The texture will still be smooth and delicious.
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How do I know when the turkey tenderloin is cooked through?
Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the tenderloin. This ensures it’s safe to eat while staying juicy and tender.
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Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can sear the turkey tenderloin and make the gravy in advance, then reheat gently before serving. Just be sure to store them separately to keep the textures just right.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Garlic Turkey Tenderloin with Gravy Recipe has truly become a staple in my kitchen because it’s reliable, comforting, and downright delicious. I love how it impresses guests without making me sweat over complicated steps. If you’re searching for a meal that offers big flavor with little fuss, this recipe is calling your name. Give it a try—I promise your family and friends will be asking for seconds before you know it!
Print
Easy Garlic Turkey Tenderloin with Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This succulent turkey tenderloin recipe features tender, perfectly cooked turkey served with a flavorful, easy garlic gravy. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s ideal for small gatherings or quick weeknight dinners, offering a comforting dish that the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
Turkey Tenderloin
- 2 turkey tenderloins (approx. 1.5 lb total)
- 3/4 tsp fine sea salt
- ½ Tbsp poultry seasoning
- 2 Tbsp avocado oil
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Garlic Gravy
- ¼ cup butter
- ¼ cup flour
- 2 cloves garlic, finely grated or pressed
- 2 cups organic beef broth (room temperature)
- ¼ tsp fine sea salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Turkey Tenderloins: Pat the turkey tenderloins dry with paper towels. Season evenly with fine sea salt and poultry seasoning to ensure flavorful meat.
- Sear the Turkey: Heat the avocado oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the turkey tenderloins and sear on all sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side, ensuring they remain juicy inside.
- Cook the Turkey Tenderloins: Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), indicating the turkey is cooked through.
- Remove Turkey & Rest: Transfer the cooked turkey tenderloins to a plate and tent with foil to rest while you prepare the gravy. This helps retain juiciness.
- Make the Garlic Gravy: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the grated or pressed garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the flour, whisking constantly to form a roux and cook out the raw flour taste, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add Broth and Salt: Gradually whisk in the organic beef broth to the roux, ensuring no lumps form. Add ¼ tsp fine sea salt and continue whisking until the gravy thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- Adjust Seasoning & Combine: Taste the gravy and adjust salt if needed. Return the turkey tenderloins to the skillet briefly, spooning the garlic gravy over them to coat and reheat slightly.
- Serve: Plate the turkey tenderloins, spoon extra garlic gravy over the top, and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- This recipe is perfect for small Thanksgiving gatherings or as an easy weeknight dinner.
- Prep time is about 10 minutes, with a total cook time of 15 minutes, making the entire dish ready in 25 minutes.
- Using avocado oil provides a high smoke point for searing and is a healthy fat choice.
- Letting the turkey rest after cooking helps retain moisture and tenderness.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe (approximately 6 ounces turkey with gravy)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg

