Turkey & Dressing Dinner from Perkins features tender, herb-seasoned roasted turkey served alongside savory cornbread dressing, complemented by creamy mashed potatoes and rich turkey gravy, presented as a hearty, comforting meal perfect for family gatherings.
Equipments
- Oven
- Roasting pan
- Meat thermometer
- Carving knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowls
- Baking dish
- Saucepan
- Potato masher
- Whisk
- Serving platter
- Ladle
- Spoons
Ingredients
- 1 (4-5 lb) turkey breast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
- 2 teaspoons dried sage
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cups cornbread, cubed
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 cup onion, diced
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 lbs russet potatoes
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (for potatoes)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups turkey or chicken stock
- Salt and pepper to taste
When preparing the Turkey & Dressing Dinner from Perkins, using a fresh, high-quality 4-5 lb turkey breast ensures tender and flavorful meat. Dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, and sage play a crucial role in achieving the signature herb-seasoned taste, so measure them accurately for balanced seasoning. Make sure to use cubed cornbread that is slightly stale for better texture in the dressing, and keep unsalted butter on hand to control salt levels in both the dressing and mashed potatoes. For the mashed potatoes, russet potatoes yield the creamiest results when combined with whole milk, heavy cream, and a generous amount of butter. Your replicated Turkey & Dressing Dinner from Perkins will capture the comforting, savory flavors that make this meal a perfect fit for family gatherings.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Pat turkey breast dry with paper towels.
- Mix olive oil, thyme, rosemary, sage, salt, and black pepper in a bowl.
- Rub herb mixture over turkey breast.
- Place turkey breast in roasting pan.
- Roast turkey breast, basting occasionally, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let turkey rest before carving.
- In a skillet, melt 1/2 cup unsalted butter.
- Add diced celery and onion and sauté until softened.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cornbread cubes, sautéed vegetables, garlic powder, paprika, and chicken broth.
- Toss gently to combine and transfer to a baking dish.
- Bake cornbread dressing until golden and heated through.
- Peel and chop russet potatoes; place in a pot and cover with water.
- Boil potatoes until fork-tender, then drain.
- Mash potatoes with milk, heavy cream, and 6 tablespoons butter until smooth.
- In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons butter.
- Whisk in flour to make a roux.
- Slowly pour in turkey or chicken stock, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
- Simmer until gravy thickens; season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Carve turkey and arrange on a serving platter.
- Serve turkey with cornbread dressing, mashed potatoes, and turkey gravy.
Substitution
Turkey & Dressing Dinner from Perkins copycat menu combines herb-seasoned roasted turkey breast with a savory cornbread dressing, creamy mashed potatoes, and rich turkey gravy for a classic comfort meal. If fresh herbs are unavailable, dried herbs can be adjusted in quantity, or substitute fresh with half the amount of dried. When roasting, use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey breast reaches an internal temperature of 165degF for safe serving. For a lighter gravy, swap heavy cream for half-and-half or omit it, thickening with a bit more flour. Your leftover turkey can be shredded and added to the dressing mixture for added protein and flavor in a second serving.
Tips
Ensure the turkey breast is completely dry before applying the herb mixture to achieve a crispy, flavorful skin. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature reaches 165degF (74degC) for safe consumption and optimal juiciness. When mashing your russet potatoes, warm the milk and cream to avoid cooling the mash and help maintain a smooth texture. Let your turkey rest after roasting to allow the juices to redistribute, keeping your meal tender and moist for your guests.
Nutritions
Turkey breast is a lean source of high-quality protein essential for muscle repair and immune function. Cornbread dressing provides carbohydrates and fiber, with added vitamins from celery and onion. Mashed potatoes supply potassium and energy, enhanced by healthy fats from butter and cream. Your meal delivers a balanced combination of macronutrients and flavors, supporting energy needs and satiety.
Storage
Store leftover turkey in airtight containers and refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness and prevent bacteria growth. Keep cornbread dressing and mashed potatoes in separate sealed containers at or below 40degF (4degC) to preserve texture and flavor. You can also freeze turkey and side dishes in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months, ensuring your meal stays delicious when reheated.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute the turkey breast with a whole turkey for a more traditional presentation, adjusting cooking time according to weight and using a meat thermometer for accuracy. Swap cornbread cubes with a combination of white and whole wheat bread for a different texture and flavor profile in the dressing. Replace russet potatoes with Yukon Gold potatoes to achieve a creamier mashed potato consistency. For a richer gravy, consider adding a splash of dry white wine or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard during the simmering process.
Allergies
Your Turkey & Dressing Dinner from Perkins contains several common allergens including dairy from whole milk, heavy cream, and unsalted butter used in both the mashed potatoes and dressing. Celery and onions may also cause sensitivity for some individuals, while the cornbread dressing includes gluten from all-purpose flour and cornbread containing corn derivatives. If you have specific food allergies, it is important to confirm ingredient details with the restaurant before enjoying this hearty meal.
Why this recipe?
Turkey & Dressing Dinner at Perkins restaurant appeals to people due to its perfectly seasoned turkey, moist dressing, and rich, savory gravy that create a comforting and satisfying meal. The dish combines traditional flavors with a home-cooked feel that evokes nostalgia and warmth, making it a favorite for special occasions and everyday dining alike. Trying the copycat recipe allows you to recreate this beloved taste at home, offering a cost-effective and customizable alternative to dining out. Your guests will appreciate the authentic flavor and attention to detail that goes into preparing this classic dish from scratch.