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Barefoot contessa turkey roulade

Barefoot Contessa Turkey Roulade Recipe

Sharon Brown
When planning a special meal, it’s important to think about what you serve alongside your main dish. With Barefoot Contessa Turkey Roulade, you can elevate your dinner experience with some delightful extras.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 3 hours
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Oven

Ingredients
  

  • 1 whole turkey breast 5 pounds, boned and butterflied into two halves
  • 1 1/2 cups finely diced yellow onions about 2 medium onions
  • 1 cup diced celery 3 stalks, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
  • 3/4 pound pork sausage casings removed (use a mix of sweet and spicy)
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh rosemary leaves finely chopped
  • 3 tablespoons pine nuts lightly toasted
  • 3 cups herb-flavored stuffing mix recommended: Pepperidge Farm
  • 3/4 cup large-diced dried figs with stems removed
  • 3/4 cup sweetened dried cranberries
  • 1/2 cup Calvados apple brandy, or regular brandy
  • 1 1/2 cups chicken stock preferably homemade for richer flavor
  • 1 extra-large egg lightly beaten
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter 1/2 stick
  • 3 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground sage optional, for added aromatic depth
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese optional, for a subtle savory note in the stuffing

Instructions
 

  • Start with your turkey breast. Place it skin-side down on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to gently butterfly the turkey if it's not already done. You want an even thickness throughout. This way, it cooks evenly.
  • In a large pan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of the unsalted butter. Add the diced onions and celery. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes. You want them softened but not browned. This will add to the stuffing's depth of flavor.
  • In the same pan, add the sausage. Break it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, which should take around 5-6 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
  • In a large bowl, combine the sautéed veggies with the cooked sausage. Add the chopped rosemary, toasted pine nuts, herb-flavored stuffing mix, dried figs, dried cranberries, and ground sage, if using. Mix well.
  • Stir in the chicken stock, Calvados (or brandy), and the beaten egg. Season the mixture with salt and pepper. The stuffing should be moist but not soggy.
  • Spread the stuffing mixture evenly over the butterflied turkey breast. Roll it up tightly, starting from one end and rolling towards the other. Tie it securely with kitchen twine at both ends and a few spots along the length. This secures the stuffing inside.
  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pat the rolled turkey with paper towels and rub it all over with the remaining melted butter. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  • Place the roulade on a roasting pan. Cook in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 45 minutes, or until a meat thermometer reads 165°F (74°C).
  • Once the roulade reaches the proper temperature, remove it from the oven. Let it rest for at least 20 minutes before slicing. This helps redistribute the juices.
  • Carefully slice the roulade into beautiful rounds. Serve it with your favorite sides and watch it disappear.

Notes

  • Baste Regularly: If you can, baste the turkey every 30 minutes with pan juices or melted butter. This enhances moisture and flavor.
  • Ingredient Quality: Use high-quality sausage and fresh herbs. The taste transformation is remarkable.
  • Don’t Rush Resting Time: It’s easy to want to dig in as soon as it’s out of the oven. Resist! Resting allows for juicier slices.
  • Use a Sharp Knife: For clean cuts, use a sharp knife to slice the roulade. This ensures every piece looks pretty.
  • Experiment with Stuffing Ingredients: Feel free to mix in seasonal vegetables, different dried fruits, or even nuts based on taste preferences.

Nutrition

Calories: 350kcal
Keyword Barefoot contessa turkey roulade recipe
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