While rummaging through my pantry, I stumbled upon a classic box of stuffing mix that instantly transported me back to family dinners filled with laughter and love. Yet, this time, I wanted to transform that nostalgia into something extraordinary. Enter my Turkey Roulade with Sausage Stuffing—a modern twist on Thanksgiving fare that marries the comfort of home-cooked meals with a touch of culinary flair. This recipe isn’t just delicious; it’s a game-changer for anyone looking to elevate their holiday spread without spending hours in the kitchen. With juicy turkey rolled around savory sausage, onions, and herbs, you’ll have an impressive centerpiece for your table that cooks in under an hour! Plus, it’s make-ahead friendly, making mealtime effortless. Curious how to put this beautiful bird together? Let’s dive right in!
Why choose Turkey Roulade with Sausage Stuffing?
Elevated Comfort: This Turkey Roulade transforms classic flavors into a stunning dish that’s both impressive and comforting—a perfect balance that everyone will adore.
Time-Saving Delight: Prepared and cooked in under an hour, it’s a quick solution for busy holiday cooks looking for deliciousness without the long wait.
Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare it the day before and spend more time enjoying the company of loved ones. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to go!
Flavor Fusion: The savory sausage stuffing melds beautifully with juicy turkey, ensuring each bite bursts with flavor, reminiscent of cherished family gatherings.
Versatile Variation: Feel free to add your own twist—think apples, nuts, or different herbs—to make this dish uniquely yours, just like how you might with my Breakfast Tacos Avocado!
Turkey Roulade with Sausage Stuffing Ingredients
For the Roulade
• Turkey Breast – Skinless boneless turkey breast serves as the flavorful base; substitute with a bone-in breast if you wish to enhance the taste and presentation.
• Unsalted Butter – 6 tablespoons, softened; adds richness and ensures easy spreading over the turkey.
• Kosher Salt – To taste; crucial for enhancing flavors throughout the dish.
• Ground Black Pepper – To taste; adds a subtle kick and complements the other ingredients.
• Garlic Powder – 1 teaspoon; enhances the overall flavor profile, bringing warmth and depth.
For the Stuffing
• Italian Sausage – ½ pound, casings removed; imparts savory goodness into the stuffing; for a healthier version, substitute with turkey sausage.
• Yellow Onion – ½ cup, finely diced; adds sweetness and depth; can be swapped with shallots for a milder touch.
• Celery – ½ cup, finely diced; brings crunch and balances the flavors beautifully.
• Chicken Broth – 1 cup, plus more as needed; keeps the stuffing moist; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
• Herb Stuffing Mix – 1 (6-ounce) box; serves as the foundation for delicious stuffing; I recommend using Pepperidge Farm, but homemade stuffing mix works great too!
Enjoy creating this Turkey Roulade with Sausage Stuffing, where tradition meets modern convenience!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Turkey Roulade with Sausage Stuffing
Step 1: Prep Stuffing
Begin by cooking the Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon until it’s browned, about 5-7 minutes. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter and sauté the diced onions and celery until softened, roughly 3-4 minutes. Combine the cooked sausage with the sautéed vegetables, then gradually stir in the stuffing mix and chicken broth until the mixture is moist but not soggy.
Step 2: Butterfly Turkey
Take the skinless boneless turkey breast and place it on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice the turkey breast horizontally, opening it like a book, then gently pound it to about ½ inch thickness using a meat mallet. Season both sides generously with kosher salt and ground black pepper, ensuring even coverage to enhance the flavor of your Turkey Roulade with Sausage Stuffing.
Step 3: Assemble Roulade
Spread the prepared stuffing evenly across the flattened turkey breast, ensuring to leave a 1-inch border around the edges. Starting from the longer edge, carefully roll the turkey tightly, forming a log shape. Secure the roulade with kitchen twine every 2-3 inches to hold everything together. This step creates a beautiful presentation for your savory creation.
Step 4: Rub and Bake
In a small bowl, mix the remaining softened butter with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture generously over the exterior of the roulade for added flavor. Preheat your oven to 375°F and place the roulade in a roasting pan. Bake for 55-60 minutes, increasing the temperature to 400°F during the last 20 minutes to achieve a crispy, golden-brown crust.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once your Turkey Roulade with Sausage Stuffing reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist slices. After resting, slice the roulade into rounds, showcasing the beautiful stuffing inside, and serve alongside your favorite sides for a delightful meal.
Turkey Roulade with Sausage Stuffing Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Turkey Roulade by trying out these delightful variations that will spark your culinary imagination!
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Sweet Twist: Add diced apples or cranberries to the stuffing for a hint of sweetness that beautifully balances the savory sausage. This fruity addition is reminiscent of cozy autumn evenings.
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Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans for an unexpected crunch that adds texture. Nuts can elevate the stuffing and give it a gourmet flair.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or sage in the stuffing mix for a personalized flavor. Fresh herbs bring a vibrant aroma that will entice your guests.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a bit of heat. It’s a subtle way to ignite the taste buds without overpowering the dish.
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Vegetarian Option: Swap out the sausage for a vegetable mix of mushrooms, carrots, and zucchini, sautéed until tender. This creates a delicious, meat-free stuffing that’s just as satisfying.
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Cheesy Goodness: Mix shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese into the stuffing for a melty surprise that will have everyone raving. Just picture that gooey goodness with every bite—it’s comfort food at its finest!
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Mediterranean Flair: Add sun-dried tomatoes and feta cheese to the stuffing for a Mediterranean twist. The tanginess of feta with the savory sausage creates a harmonious blend of flavors.
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Serve It Up: Pair this delectable roulade with a homemade turkey gravy and tangy cranberry sauce, or complement it with a refreshing salad to balance the richness of the dish, similar to what you’d find in my Creamy Burrata Pasta Cherry Tomatoes.
These variations not only diversify the flavors but also let you personalize your Turkey Roulade to match your family’s tastes and traditions. Happy cooking!
What to Serve with Turkey Roulade with Sausage Stuffing
Elevate your dining experience and create a balanced meal that brings out the best in your turkey roulade.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery richness offers a delightful contrast to the savory roulade, making each bite a creamy dream.
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Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: Tossed with olive oil and herbs, these veggies add a colorful and flavorful touch while providing essential nutrients.
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Garlic Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed in garlic bring a fresh crunch that perfectly complements the juicy turkey.
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Cranberry Sauce: The sweet-tangy zing of cranberry sauce cuts through the richness, enhancing the flavors of your turkey roulade.
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Homemade Turkey Gravy: A must if you want to bask in that warm, nostalgic comfort of Thanksgiving—drizzle it generously over your slices!
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Stuffing Muffins: Use the leftover stuffing to create mini muffins, adding a fun, bite-sized element that echoes your main dish’s flavors.
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Pumpkin Pie: End your meal on a sweet note. The warm spices of this classic dessert bring a seasonally comforting twist.
These pairings will create a memorable feast, perfect for family gatherings or festive celebrations!
Make Ahead Options
These Turkey Roulade with Sausage Stuffing are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the entire roulade up to 24 hours in advance, storing it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator to maintain its juicy flavor. For even more flexibility, the stuffing can be made up to three days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Just make sure to let the stuffing cool completely before spreading it onto the turkey to prevent any cooking. When you’re ready to serve, simply pop the roulade into the oven as instructed, and you’ll have a stunning centerpiece ready to impress your family with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Turkey Roulade
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Cool the Stuffing: Make sure the stuffing cools completely before spreading it on the turkey to avoid partially cooking the meat.
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Pat Dry Turkey: Always pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels before seasoning to promote a better, crispier browning.
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Meat Thermometer: Invest in a meat thermometer to accurately check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe and juicy turkey roulade with sausage stuffing.
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Broil for Crispiness: For an extra crispy crust, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, but watch closely to prevent burning.
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Save the Scraps: Use any leftover bits of turkey or stuffing to create a delicious turkey soup or casserole the next day, minimizing waste while maximizing flavor!
How to Store and Freeze Turkey Roulade with Sausage Stuffing
Refrigerator: Keep any leftovers wrapped in plastic wrap or airtight containers. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, ensuring you can enjoy this delightful dish again!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the roulade wrapped tightly in foil or in a freezer-safe bag. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months, making future meals a breeze.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and then reheat in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20-25 minutes, to maintain juiciness.
Make-Ahead Prep: If you’re planning ahead for a holiday gathering, prepare the turkey roulade with sausage stuffing the day before and simply pop it in the oven when it’s time to cook.
Turkey Roulade with Sausage Stuffing Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right turkey breast for my roulade?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose a skinless boneless turkey breast, as it provides an ideal base for the roulade. Look for meat that is pale pink without dark spots and has a slight sheen. If you prefer, you can also use a bone-in breast; just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How should I store leftovers from the Turkey Roulade with Sausage Stuffing?
Very! After enjoying your meal, wrap any leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or place them in airtight containers. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This way, you can savor those delightful flavors all over again!
Can I freeze the Turkey Roulade?
Definitely! To freeze your roulade, wrap it tightly in foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag, squeezing out as much air as possible. This will keep it fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in a 350°F oven for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
What should I do if my roulade doesn’t hold together while rolling?
If you encounter this issue, don’t worry! Begin by ensuring the turkey is pounded evenly to about ½ inch thickness, as this provides a sturdy foundation. Use kitchen twine to secure the roulade tightly every 2-3 inches, which helps maintain its shape during cooking. If it still struggles, consider using toothpicks for additional support.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Certainly! If you’re cooking for guests with dietary restrictions, the Italian sausage in this recipe can be swapped for turkey sausage for a leaner option. Additionally, check for allergies related to gluten in the herb stuffing mix and opt for a gluten-free version if needed. Always inform your guests of the ingredients, just to be safe!
How do I ensure the sausage stuffing stays moist?
Great question! To keep the stuffing moist, gradually add chicken broth to the stuffing mixture until it feels just right—not too dry or too soggy. When assembling the roulade, ensure the stuffing is evenly spread across the turkey, but avoid overfilling. This balance will give you that perfect, moist stuffing experience!
Savory Turkey Roulade with Sausage Stuffing Made Easy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook the Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it apart until browned, about 5-7 minutes. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter and sauté the diced onions and celery until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Combine cooked sausage with sautéed vegetables, then stir in the stuffing mix and chicken broth until moist.
- Take the turkey breast and place it on a cutting board. Carefully slice horizontally, opening like a book, and pound to about ½ inch thickness. Season both sides with kosher salt and black pepper.
- Spread prepared stuffing evenly on the flattened turkey breast, leaving a 1-inch border. Roll the turkey tightly from the longer edge, securing with kitchen twine every 2-3 inches.
- In a small bowl, mix remaining softened butter with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture over the roulade. Preheat the oven to 375°F and bake the roulade for 55-60 minutes, increasing the temperature to 400°F for the last 20 minutes.
- Let the roulade rest for 15 minutes after reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Slice into rounds and serve.