Introduction: Craving a Light, Flavorful Sandwich?
Looking for an easy, delicious meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, game days, or casual gatherings? Pulled Turkey Tenderloin is the ultimate recipe! This slow-cooker dish features tender, shredded turkey infused with tangy pickle juice, spicy jalapeños, and savory onion soup mix, then tossed in a creamy yogurt-mustard sauce. Served on kaiser rolls with optional toppings like coleslaw or pickles, it’s a healthy twist on pulled pork. Ready to create a mouthwatering, crowd-pleasing sandwich? Let’s dive into this tasty recipe!
Overview: Why Pulled Turkey Tenderloin Is Special
Pulled Turkey Tenderloin is a lean, flavorful dish that combines the convenience of a slow cooker with bold, zesty flavors. Here’s why it’s so special:
- Time Requirement: About 15 minutes prep, 6-8 hours cooking on Low, 10 minutes finishing, for a total of about 6.5-8.5 hours (mostly inactive).
- Difficulty Level: Easy! Simple mixing, shredding, and tossing make it ideal for beginners or busy cooks.
- Why It’s Unique: The slow cooker ensures juicy turkey, while pickle juice and jalapeños add a tangy-spicy kick. A light yogurt-based sauce keeps it creamy without being heavy, and kaiser rolls provide a sturdy base. This recipe serves 5, perfect for small families, lunches, or gatherings, offering a healthier alternative to traditional pulled meats.
This recipe is zesty, versatile, and perfect for turkey lovers or fans of lighter, BBQ-style sandwiches. Let’s get cooking!
Essential Ingredients
This recipe serves 5 and uses pantry staples for a flavorful dish. Here’s what you’ll need for the original (1x) recipe:
- For the Turkey:
- 1 package (20 ounces) turkey breast tenderloins
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 cup sweet pickle juice
- 1 envelope onion soup mix
- 2 tablespoons canned diced jalapeño peppers
- For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup fat-free plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper
- For Assembly:
- 5 kaiser rolls, split
- Optional Toppings:
- Prepared coleslaw
- Sliced jalapeño peppers
- Sweet pickles
Why These Ingredients Matter
- Turkey Breast Tenderloins: Lean, tender meat that shreds easily.
- Water: Dilutes the cooking liquid for even cooking.
- Sweet Pickle Juice: Adds tangy, sweet flavor and tenderizes the turkey.
- Onion Soup Mix: Brings savory, umami depth.
- Jalapeño Peppers: Provide a mild spicy kick.
- Greek Yogurt: Creates a creamy, light sauce base.
- Yellow Mustard: Adds sharp, tangy flavor.
- Pepper: Enhances the sauce’s seasoning.
- Kaiser Rolls: Sturdy rolls that hold the juicy filling.
- Toppings: Add crunch, heat, or sweetness for customization.
Substitutions and Variations
- Turkey: Swap with 20 ounces chicken breast (cook 5-6 hours) or pork tenderloin (cook 6-8 hours).
- Pickle Juice: Use dill pickle juice or 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar plus 1 tablespoon sugar.
- Onion Soup Mix: Replace with 1 tablespoon dried onion flakes, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
- Jalapeños: Swap with 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes or 2 tablespoons diced green chiles.
- Greek Yogurt: Use sour cream or mayonnaise for a richer sauce.
- Yellow Mustard: Replace with Dijon mustard or 1 teaspoon mustard powder mixed with water.
- Rolls: Use brioche buns, slider rolls, or lettuce wraps for low-carb.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free rolls and ensure onion soup mix is gluten-free.
- Milder Version: Omit jalapeños or use 1 tablespoon mild green chiles.
- BBQ Twist: Add 1/4 cup BBQ sauce to the yogurt mixture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making Pulled Turkey Tenderloin is simple, with a slow-cooker method and a quick sauce. Follow these steps for a perfect dish!
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
- Open 1 package (20 ounces) turkey breast tenderloins.
- Measure 2 cups water, 1/2 cup sweet pickle juice, 2 tablespoons canned diced jalapeño peppers.
- Open 1 envelope onion soup mix.
- Measure 1/2 cup fat-free plain Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon yellow mustard, 1/8 teaspoon pepper.
- Gather 5 kaiser rolls.
- Prep optional toppings: prepare coleslaw, slice jalapeños, and gather sweet pickles.
- Grease a 3-quart slow cooker with cooking spray.
Tip: Drain jalapeños to control spice; prep toppings in advance for quick assembly.
Step 2: Prep the Slow Cooker
- Add Turkey: Place turkey tenderloins in the greased 3-quart slow cooker.
- Make Cooking Liquid: In a small bowl, combine 2 cups water, 1/2 cup sweet pickle juice, 1 envelope onion soup mix, and 2 tablespoons diced jalapeño peppers. Stir well and pour over the turkey.
Tip: Ensure turkey is mostly covered by liquid; stir the mixture to dissolve soup mix fully.
Step 3: Slow Cook
- Cook on Low: Cover and cook on Low for 6-8 hours, until turkey is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Tip: Check at 6 hours with a thermometer to avoid overcooking; don’t lift the lid often to maintain heat.
Step 4: Shred the Turkey
- Remove Turkey: Transfer turkey to a small bowl using tongs.
- Shred: Shred turkey with two forks into bite-sized pieces.
- Strain Juices: Strain the cooking juices through a fine-mesh sieve, reserving 1/2 cup. Discard remaining juices.
Tip: Shred finely for easy sandwich filling; reserve juices immediately to avoid losing liquid.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
- Combine Ingredients: In another small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon yellow mustard, 1/8 teaspoon pepper, and the reserved 1/2 cup cooking juices until smooth.
- Toss with Turkey: Pour the sauce over the shredded turkey and toss to coat evenly.
Tip: Mix sauce thoroughly for consistency; taste and adjust with extra mustard or pepper if desired.
Step 6: Assemble and Serve
- Prep Rolls: Split 5 kaiser rolls and toast lightly if desired (in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes or on a skillet).
- Add Turkey: Spoon about 1/2 cup of the turkey mixture onto the bottom half of each roll.
- Add Toppings: Customize with prepared coleslaw, sliced jalapeños, or sweet pickles if desired.
- Serve: Place roll tops on sandwiches and serve immediately, with extra sauce on the side if desired.
Tip: Use a slotted spoon to avoid soggy rolls; serve with napkins for messy, delicious bites.
Assembly: Building the Perfect Pulled Turkey Tenderloin
Assembling these sandwiches is all about creating tender, saucy turkey on a sturdy roll. Here’s how to put it together:
- Cook Turkey: Slow cook with pickle juice, soup mix, and jalapeños for flavor.
- Shred: Break down turkey for a soft texture.
- Strain Juices: Reserve liquid for the sauce.
- Make Sauce: Blend yogurt, mustard, pepper, and juices for a creamy coating.
- Assemble: Pile turkey on kaiser rolls with toppings for a zesty sandwich.
Presentation Tips:
- Serve on a colorful platter with a side of pickles or chips for a casual vibe.
- Garnish sandwiches with a pickle slice or a sprinkle of chopped parsley for color.
- Pair with classic sides like potato salad, baked beans, or cucumber salad for a complete meal.
- Use a wooden board or paper-lined basket for a fun, picnic-style look.
Serving Suggestions
Pulled Turkey Tenderloin sandwiches are versatile and perfect for a variety of occasions. Here are some ideas to enjoy them:
- Weeknight Dinner: Serve with fries or a green salad for a quick meal.
- Game-Day Snack: Offer with sliders for a party spread with dips and veggies.
- Picnic or BBQ: Pair with coleslaw and iced tea for a summer gathering.
- Lunch Prep: Pack turkey mixture separately for easy sandwich assembly at work.
- With Extras: Add shredded cheddar, avocado slices, or a drizzle of hot sauce for flair.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
These sandwiches are great for leftovers or meal prep. Here’s how to keep them fresh:
- Storing Leftovers:
- Store turkey mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Keep rolls and toppings separate.
- Reheating: Reheat turkey in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water, about 5 minutes, or microwave for 1-2 minutes. Toast rolls before assembling.
- Make-Ahead Tips:
- Turkey: Cook and shred turkey up to 2 days ahead; refrigerate in the cooking juices. Add sauce and reheat before serving.
- Sauce: Mix sauce (without juices) up to 3 days ahead; refrigerate and add juices when ready.
- Freezing: Freeze shredded turkey (without sauce or rolls) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge, make sauce, and reheat.
Tip: Assemble sandwiches just before serving to keep rolls fresh; store toppings separately for crunch.
Recipe Variations
Pulled Turkey Tenderloin is versatile and easy to customize. Here are some fun twists to try:
- Milder Version: Omit jalapeños and use 1/4 cup mild salsa instead of pickle juice.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free rolls and ensure onion soup mix is gluten-free.
- Low-Fat: Already low-fat with yogurt; use whole-grain rolls for added fiber.
- Spicy Kick: Add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne or extra jalapeños to the cooking liquid.
- Sweet BBQ: Replace yogurt sauce with 1/2 cup BBQ sauce and 2 tablespoons mustard.
- Mediterranean Twist: Use tzatziki instead of yogurt sauce and add feta and cucumber toppings.
- Oven Option: Bake turkey with liquid at 325°F for 3-4 hours, shred, and mix with sauce.
Tip: Keep the pickle-juice-yogurt base for the unique turkey flavor.
Conclusion: Savor Your Pulled Turkey Tenderloin!
You’ve just made Pulled Turkey Tenderloin—a tender, zesty, and healthier sandwich that’s perfect for any occasion! This slow-cooker recipe is easy, versatile, and so delicious it’ll become a go-to for dinners, parties, or meal prep. Whether you load it with coleslaw or keep it simple, these sandwiches are sure to impress. Grab a sandwich, bite into the tangy goodness, and enjoy the bold flavors. What’s your favorite sandwich topping? Share your ideas in the comments, and happy cooking!
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Pulled Turkey Tenderloin
Description
Looking for an easy, delicious meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, game days, or casual gatherings? Pulled Turkey Tenderloin is the ultimate recipe! This slow-cooker dish features tender, shredded turkey infused with tangy pickle juice, spicy jalapeños, and savory onion soup mix, then tossed in a creamy yogurt-mustard sauce
Ingredients
- For the Turkey:
- 1 package (20 ounces) turkey breast tenderloins
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 cup sweet pickle juice
- 1 envelope onion soup mix
- 2 tablespoons canned diced jalapeño peppers
- For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup fat-free plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper
- For Assembly:
- 5 kaiser rolls, split
- Optional Toppings:
- Prepared coleslaw
- Sliced jalapeño peppers
- Sweet pickles
Why These Ingredients Matter
- Turkey Breast Tenderloins: Lean, tender meat that shreds easily.
- Water: Dilutes the cooking liquid for even cooking.
- Sweet Pickle Juice: Adds tangy, sweet flavor and tenderizes the turkey.
- Onion Soup Mix: Brings savory, umami depth.
- Jalapeño Peppers: Provide a mild spicy kick.
- Greek Yogurt: Creates a creamy, light sauce base.
- Yellow Mustard: Adds sharp, tangy flavor.
- Pepper: Enhances the sauce’s seasoning.
- Kaiser Rolls: Sturdy rolls that hold the juicy filling.
- Toppings: Add crunch, heat, or sweetness for customization.
Substitutions and Variations
- Turkey: Swap with 20 ounces chicken breast (cook 5-6 hours) or pork tenderloin (cook 6-8 hours).
- Pickle Juice: Use dill pickle juice or 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar plus 1 tablespoon sugar.
- Onion Soup Mix: Replace with 1 tablespoon dried onion flakes, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
- Jalapeños: Swap with 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes or 2 tablespoons diced green chiles.
- Greek Yogurt: Use sour cream or mayonnaise for a richer sauce.
- Yellow Mustard: Replace with Dijon mustard or 1 teaspoon mustard powder mixed with water.
- Rolls: Use brioche buns, slider rolls, or lettuce wraps for low-carb.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free rolls and ensure onion soup mix is gluten-free.
- Milder Version: Omit jalapeños or use 1 tablespoon mild green chiles.
- BBQ Twist: Add 1/4 cup BBQ sauce to the yogurt mixture.
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
- Open 1 package (20 ounces) turkey breast tenderloins.
- Measure 2 cups water, 1/2 cup sweet pickle juice, 2 tablespoons canned diced jalapeño peppers.
- Open 1 envelope onion soup mix.
- Measure 1/2 cup fat-free plain Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon yellow mustard, 1/8 teaspoon pepper.
- Gather 5 kaiser rolls.
- Prep optional toppings: prepare coleslaw, slice jalapeños, and gather sweet pickles.
- Grease a 3-quart slow cooker with cooking spray.
Tip: Drain jalapeños to control spice; prep toppings in advance for quick assembly.
Step 2: Prep the Slow Cooker
- Add Turkey: Place turkey tenderloins in the greased 3-quart slow cooker.
- Make Cooking Liquid: In a small bowl, combine 2 cups water, 1/2 cup sweet pickle juice, 1 envelope onion soup mix, and 2 tablespoons diced jalapeño peppers. Stir well and pour over the turkey.
Tip: Ensure turkey is mostly covered by liquid; stir the mixture to dissolve soup mix fully.
Step 3: Slow Cook
- Cook on Low: Cover and cook on Low for 6-8 hours, until turkey is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Tip: Check at 6 hours with a thermometer to avoid overcooking; don’t lift the lid often to maintain heat.
Step 4: Shred the Turkey
- Remove Turkey: Transfer turkey to a small bowl using tongs.
- Shred: Shred turkey with two forks into bite-sized pieces.
- Strain Juices: Strain the cooking juices through a fine-mesh sieve, reserving 1/2 cup. Discard remaining juices.
Tip: Shred finely for easy sandwich filling; reserve juices immediately to avoid losing liquid.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
- Combine Ingredients: In another small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon yellow mustard, 1/8 teaspoon pepper, and the reserved 1/2 cup cooking juices until smooth.
- Toss with Turkey: Pour the sauce over the shredded turkey and toss to coat evenly.
Tip: Mix sauce thoroughly for consistency; taste and adjust with extra mustard or pepper if desired.
Step 6: Assemble and Serve
- Prep Rolls: Split 5 kaiser rolls and toast lightly if desired (in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes or on a skillet).
- Add Turkey: Spoon about 1/2 cup of the turkey mixture onto the bottom half of each roll.
- Add Toppings: Customize with prepared coleslaw, sliced jalapeños, or sweet pickles if desired.
- Serve: Place roll tops on sandwiches and serve immediately, with extra sauce on the side if desired.
Tip: Use a slotted spoon to avoid soggy rolls; serve with napkins for messy, delicious bites.
FAQs
Q: Is Pulled Turkey Tenderloin healthy?
A: Turkey is lean, and yogurt keeps the sauce light, but onion soup mix and rolls add sodium and carbs. Use low-sodium soup mix, reduce pickle juice to 1/4 cup, or serve on lettuce wraps for a lighter option.
Q: Can I use frozen turkey?
A: Yes, thaw first for even cooking. If using frozen, increase cooking time to 8-10 hours on Low.
Q: Why is my turkey dry?
A: Overcooking can cause this. Check at 6 hours and ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) but doesn’t cook longer.
Q: Can I cook this on High?
A: Yes, cook on High for 3-4 hours, but Low is better for tender turkey.
Q: Can I skip the pickle juice?
A: Yes, replace with 1/2 cup chicken broth or apple juice for a different flavor.
Q: Can I freeze the turkey?
A: Yes! Freeze shredded turkey (without sauce or rolls) for up to 2 months. Thaw, make sauce, and reheat.