Christmas Turkey & Stuffing Roll Ups

Introduction

Christmas Turkey & Stuffing Roll Ups bring the warmth and comfort of a holiday feast into an elegant, hassle-free dish that’s sure to impress. Imagine tender slices of turkey breast, filled with a savory, herb-infused stuffing, then rolled up and baked to golden perfection. The finishing touch—a generous drizzle of rich gravy or a tangy cranberry sauce—ties everything together, creating a dish that’s both classic and inventive.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is its simplicity and make-ahead convenience. During the holiday season, when the kitchen is bustling and time is precious, these roll-ups provide a way to serve a special meal without the complexity of roasting an entire turkey. I remember making these for a small holiday gathering, and they were a hit; guests loved the presentation and how it encapsulated the essence of a Christmas dinner in each bite.

The flexibility of these roll-ups is another win. You can experiment with different types of stuffing—think chestnuts, cranberries, or even a touch of apple for sweetness. For a richer flavor, you could even wrap the roll-ups with turkey bacon. Whether you’re hosting a cozy family gathering or adding something unique to a larger spread, these Christmas Turkey & Stuffing Roll Ups are sure to be a cherished addition to your holiday repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are the reasons you’ll love these Christmas Turkey & Stuffing Roll Ups:

• Classic Holiday Flavors: Combines turkey, stuffing, and gravy in one convenient package.
• Perfect for Smaller Gatherings: An ideal option when a whole turkey isn’t necessary.
• Easy to Prepare: Quick and simple steps, even for beginner cooks.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the roll-ups in advance and bake when needed.
• Customizable: Adjust the stuffing and seasonings to suit your taste.
• Comforting and Delicious: Captures the cozy flavors of Christmas in every bite.
• Minimal Cleanup: Uses fewer dishes compared to traditional roasting.
• Portion-Controlled: Serves as individual portions, perfect for plating.
• Kid-Friendly: Great for children who enjoy turkey without the hassle of carving.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair with a variety of holiday sides for a complete meal.

Preparation Time and Cook Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: Makes 6-8 roll-ups
• Calories per serving: Approximately 320 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 25g, Carbohydrates: 28g, Fat: 12g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious Christmas Turkey & Stuffing Roll Ups:

For the Roll Ups

• 6-8 turkey breast cutlets (pounded thin)
• 2 cups prepared stuffing (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or poultry seasoning

For the Gravy

• 2 cups turkey or chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Cranberry sauce for serving

Ingredient Highlights

• Turkey Breast Cutlets: Thinly sliced for easy rolling and even cooking.
• Stuffing: Adds a savory, herby flavor to complement the turkey.
• Thyme: A classic herb for holiday dishes that enhances the festive taste.
• Gravy: A homemade gravy that ties the dish together with its rich flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making these Christmas Turkey & Stuffing Roll Ups is simple and enjoyable:

Prepare the Turkey Roll Ups

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
2. Season the Turkey: Season both sides of the turkey cutlets with salt, pepper, and dried thyme.
3. Add Stuffing: Place a heaping spoonful of prepared stuffing onto each turkey cutlet.
4. Roll and Secure: Carefully roll up each cutlet and secure with a toothpick or kitchen twine.
5. Arrange in Dish: Place the roll-ups seam-side down in the greased baking dish.

Bake the Roll Ups

1. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the turkey is cooked through and lightly browned.

Prepare the Gravy

1. Make a Roux: Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes.
2. Add Broth: Slowly pour in the broth while whisking, ensuring no lumps form.
3. Simmer: Continue to cook until the gravy thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Finish and Serve

1. Drizzle with Gravy: Remove the toothpicks or twine from the roll-ups and drizzle with the prepared gravy.
2. Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with a dollop of cranberry sauce, if desired.

How to Serve

These Christmas Turkey & Stuffing Roll Ups can be served in various ways:

• With Mashed Potatoes: Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes for a classic holiday pairing.
• With Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans.
• Over Rice: Lay the roll-ups on a bed of wild rice for added texture and flavor.
• With Cranberry Sauce: A sweet-tart cranberry sauce adds a burst of holiday flavor.
• With Gravy Drenched: Serve with an extra ladle of gravy over the top for added richness.
• With a Side Salad: A light, refreshing salad with vinaigrette balances the meal.
• With Biscuits or Rolls: Offer with buttery dinner rolls for a complete holiday meal.
• Alongside Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potato casserole or roasted sweet potatoes make for a delicious side.
• With Stuffed Mushrooms: Serve with stuffed mushrooms as an appetizer or side.
• With Apple Compote: A side of warm apple compote adds a cozy, sweet touch.

Additional Tips

Ensure your Christmas Turkey & Stuffing Roll Ups come out perfectly with these tips:

• Pound the Cutlets Thin: Ensures even cooking and easier rolling.
• Secure Well: Use toothpicks or twine to keep the roll-ups from unraveling while baking.
• Use Homemade Stuffing: For a personalized flavor, make stuffing from scratch with your favorite herbs and bread.
• Check for Doneness: Turkey should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Gravy Variations: Add a splash of white wine (optional) for extra depth of flavor in the gravy.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the roll-ups and refrigerate until ready to bake.
• Stuffing Substitutions: Use cornbread stuffing or wild rice stuffing for a different twist.
• Add Veggies: Incorporate sautéed spinach or kale into the stuffing for added nutrients.
• Brush with Butter: For a richer flavor, brush the roll-ups with melted butter before baking.
• Double the Gravy: For gravy lovers, make extra gravy to serve on the side.

Recipe Variations

Try these variations for your Christmas Turkey & Stuffing Roll Ups:

• Herb-Crusted Roll Ups: Coat the roll-ups in seasoned breadcrumbs for a crispy finish.
• Cheese-Stuffed Roll Ups: Add a slice of provolone or Swiss cheese inside each roll-up.
• Bacon-Wrapped Roll Ups: Wrap the roll-ups in turkey bacon for extra flavor.
• Cranberry-Stuffed Roll Ups: Mix dried cranberries into the stuffing for a sweet-tart element.
• Mushroom Stuffing: Use a mushroom and herb stuffing for a deeper, earthy flavor.
• Vegetable Roll Ups: Add sautéed onions and bell peppers inside for added texture.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread in the stuffing and gluten-free flour for the gravy.
• Spinach and Feta Roll Ups: Include spinach and feta for a Mediterranean twist.
• Apple and Sage Stuffing: Incorporate diced apples and fresh sage for a unique stuffing flavor.
• Spicy Roll Ups: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the stuffing for a kick.

Freezing and Storage

Keep your Christmas Turkey & Stuffing Roll Ups fresh with these storage tips:

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Wrap individual roll-ups tightly in aluminum foil and place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
• Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the roll-ups and freeze before baking for a quick meal later.

Special Equipment

You will need the following equipment to make your Christmas Turkey & Stuffing Roll Ups:

• Baking Dish: For baking the roll-ups.
• Mixing Bowl: To prepare the stuffing.
• Small Saucepan: For making the gravy.
• Pastry Brush: To brush butter on the roll-ups (optional).
• Oven Mitts: For safely handling hot dishes.
• Toothpicks/Kitchen Twine: To secure the roll-ups.
• Meat Thermometer: To check the doneness of the turkey.
• Cutting Board: For preparing ingredients.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise measurements.
• Knife: For chopping herbs or slicing turkey if needed.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
   Yes, chicken breast cutlets work well as a substitute.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
   Yes, you can assemble the roll-ups and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.
3. What type of stuffing is best? Any stuffing of your choice works, but a classic herb stuffing complements turkey well.
4. Can I freeze the roll-ups?
   Yes, wrap unbaked roll-ups in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed.
5. What can I serve with this dish?
   Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.
6. Do I need to pound the turkey?
   Yes, pounding ensures even thickness for proper rolling and cooking.
7. Can I add cheese to the stuffing?
   Yes, shredded cheddar or Swiss cheese can be added for a cheesy filling.
8. Is there a vegetarian version?
   Substitute turkey with large zucchini or eggplant slices and use vegetable stuffing.
9. Can I use pre-cooked turkey?
   Pre-cooked turkey is not recommended as it may dry out when baked.
10. How do I keep the turkey moist?
    Ensure you don’t overbake, and use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F (74°C).

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Conclusion

These Christmas Turkey & Stuffing Roll Ups are sure to be a holiday hit, bringing together traditional flavors in a modern, convenient form. Their tender turkey slices filled with savory stuffing make for a delightful twist on the classic holiday meal, perfect for gatherings large and small. With simple preparation and flavors that evoke the warmth and joy of the season, these roll ups are bound to become a new festive favorite.

Whether served alongside traditional holiday sides or paired with fresh, new accompaniments, this dish is a versatile and impressive addition to any holiday table. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the satisfaction of bringing a touch of comfort and creativity to your celebrations. I can’t wait to see how your Christmas Turkey & Stuffing Roll Ups turn out! Don’t forget to take a photo and tag me on social media—I’d love to see your holiday creations. Happy cooking, and may your holiday season be full of delicious memories!