Cajun Baked Turkey Breast and Dressing is a delicious and flavorful dish that brings a taste of the South to your table. This recipe combines a juicy turkey breast with a savory stuffing made from Andouille sausage and fresh vegetables. Perfect for a holiday gathering or a family dinner, this dish is sure to impress your loved ones.
Why Make This Recipe
If you’re looking to add some spice to your holiday meal, Cajun Baked Turkey Breast and Dressing is a great choice. This recipe is not only packed with flavor, but it’s also relatively simple to prepare. The combo of the juicy turkey and the savory dressing provides a comforting, hearty meal that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it’s a great way to celebrate with a dish that encapsulates the essence of Cajun cooking.
How to Make Cajun Baked Turkey Breast and Dressing
Making Cajun Baked Turkey Breast and Dressing is easy when you follow the steps below.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp each freshly cracked black pepper, ground oregano
- 2 tsp each onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/2 tsp each dried thyme and rosemary
- 8 lb (4 kg) bone-in turkey breast (“crown” or “buffe”)
- 4 tbsp (50g) butter
- 8 cloves garlic, minced (2 tbsp)
- 2 large onions, finely chopped (4 cups)
- 2 celery ribs, finely chopped (2 cups)
- 2 green peppers, finely chopped (2 cups)
- 1 1/4 lb (650g) Andouille sausages
- 1-2 tbsp Tabasco sauce, to taste
- 2 cups chicken stock/broth
- 1 1/2 cups bread crumbs (panko breadcrumbs can be substituted)
Directions
Rub: Start by making a seasoning rub with the salt, black pepper, oregano, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, thyme, and rosemary. Rub the mixture all over the turkey breast, making sure to coat it well.
Dressing: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, chopped onions, celery, and green peppers. Sauté until softened. Then, add the Andouille sausage and cook until browned. Mix in the Tabasco sauce, chicken stock, and bread crumbs until well combined.
Roasting: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Fill the cavity of the turkey breast with the prepared dressing. Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan, cover it with foil, and roast for about 2-2.5 hours. Remove the foil for the last 30 minutes to achieve a golden-brown color.
How to Serve Cajun Baked Turkey Breast and Dressing
Once the turkey breast is done, let it rest for about 15-20 minutes before slicing. Serve it with the dressing on the side to let everyone enjoy the flavors separately. This dish pairs beautifully with cranberry sauce and green beans for a complete meal.
How to Store Cajun Baked Turkey Breast and Dressing
If you have leftovers, store them in airtight containers. Refrigerate within two hours of cooking. The turkey and dressing can last in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving again.
Tips to Make Cajun Baked Turkey Breast and Dressing
- Ensure the turkey breast is thawed completely before seasoning.
- Adjust the amount of Tabasco sauce according to your heat preference.
- Try using different kinds of sausage for a unique flavor.
Variation
For a different take, you can use chicken instead of turkey, or add different vegetables such as carrots or mushrooms to the dressing.
FAQs
1. Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dressing a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you are ready to fill the turkey.
2. What if I can’t find Andouille sausage?
You can substitute Andouille sausage with any smoked sausage or turkey sausage for a lighter option.
3. How long should I roast the turkey breast?
Roast the turkey breast for about 2-2.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Enjoy your Cajun Baked Turkey Breast and Dressing with family and friends for a meal filled with flavor and joy!
Cajun Baked Turkey Breast and Dressing
Ingredients
Turkey and Seasoning
- 1 tbsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 tsp ground oregano
- 2 tsp onion powder
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp dried rosemary
- 8 lb bone-in turkey breast “crown” or “buffe”
Dressing Ingredients
- 4 tbsp butter (50g)
- 8 cloves garlic, minced (2 tbsp)
- 2 large onions, finely chopped (4 cups)
- 2 ribs celery, finely chopped (2 cups)
- 2 medium green peppers, finely chopped (2 cups)
- 1 ¼ lb Andouille sausages (650g)
- 1-2 tbsp Tabasco sauce to taste
- 2 cups chicken stock/broth
- 1 ½ cups bread crumbs (panko breadcrumbs can be substituted)
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by making a seasoning rub with the salt, black pepper, oregano, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, thyme, and rosemary. Rub the mixture all over the turkey breast, making sure to coat it well.
Dressing Preparation
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, chopped onions, celery, and green peppers. Sauté until softened.
- Add the Andouille sausage and cook until browned.
- Mix in the Tabasco sauce, chicken stock, and bread crumbs until well combined.
Roasting
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Fill the cavity of the turkey breast with the prepared dressing.
- Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan, cover it with foil, and roast for about 2 to 2.5 hours.
- Remove the foil for the last 30 minutes to achieve a golden-brown color.
Serving
- Once the turkey breast is done, let it rest for about 15-20 minutes before slicing. Serve it with the dressing on the side.
