- Organic free-range turkey breast, cut into even slices (10 oz per serving)
- Cajun seasoning mix (equal parts paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and dried oregano)
- Olive oil
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Lemon or lime juice
- **Dressing Stuffing**
- Cornbread mix (for a traditional texture)
- Dried bread cubes (alternative for those not using cornbread mix)
- Celery, chopped
- Onion, finely diced
- Chicken broth (enough to moisten the stuffing)
- Dried cayenne pepper
- Garlic powder
- Thyme leaves
- Salt and black pepper
- **SEO Keywords**
- Cajun baked turkey breast recipe
- Organic free-range ingredients
- Cornbread dressing stuffin'
- Traditional Thanksgiving recipes
- Dried spices for stuffing
Steps
### How to Make a Flavorful Cajun Baked Turkey Breast and Dressing Stuffing
#### Ingredients:
- 1 (4-pound) boneless, skin-on turkey breast
- 2 cups of bread cubes (day-old or frozen)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
#### Equipment:
- Baking sheet
- Aluminum foil
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Parchment paper (optional)
### Step-by-Step Guide:
#### Preparing the Turkey Breast:
1. **Preheat Oven:** Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. **Prepare Ingredients:** Mince the garlic, chop parsley and thyme, dice the onion.
3. **Mix Seasonings:** In a small bowl, mix together cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
#### Stuffing the Turkey:
4. **Stuff the Breast:** Place the turkey breast on a cutting board. Using your fingers or a spoon, gently make several cuts along the length of the breast to create pockets for stuffing.
5. **Add Herbs and Seasonings:** Mix the minced garlic, chopped parsley, thyme, diced onion, and the seasoning mixture in a bowl.
6. **Stuff Thoroughly:** Distribute this mixture evenly into the pockets you created on the turkey breast.
#### Baking:
7. **Prepare Turkey for Baking:**
- Place the stuffed turkey breast on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper (optional).
- Tent the turkey loosely with aluminum foil.
8. **Bake for 1 Hour:** Bake in the preheated oven for about an hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) as measured by a meat thermometer.
#### Preparing the Stuffing:
9. **Prepare Dressing Mix:** In a large mixing bowl, combine bread cubes with olive oil and any remaining seasoning mix.
10. **Stuffing Preparation:** Place this stuffing in a greased baking dish or fill your turkey cavity if you prefer to stuff it inside.
#### Baking the Stuffing:
11. **Bake Stuffing Separately:**
- Bake stuffing at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until golden and cooked through.
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
#### Serving:
12. **Serving Suggestions:** Once both turkey and stuffing are done, remove them from the oven. Allow the stuffed breast to rest for about 10-15 minutes before carving.
### SEO Tips & Keywords:
- "Cajun baked turkey breast"
- "Turkey stuffing recipe"
- "Flavorful Thanksgiving dish"
- "Seasoning mix for turkey"
- "Baking techniques for stuffed turkey"
By following these detailed steps, you can prepare a delicious and aromatic Cajun-styled turkey breast with a flavorful stuffing. Perfect for holiday meals or special occasions!