Imagine a magical Christmas evening where you and your loved one can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal without the chaos of a large family gathering. This intimate Christmas Dinner for Two is your ticket to a stress-free, delicious holiday experience that combines traditional flavors with simple preparation. Whether you're a newlywed couple, empty nesters, or just prefer a quiet celebration, this recipe promises to make your holiday meal both special and effortless.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 30 mins
Cuisine: Traditional
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 1 small turkey breast
- 1 cup stuffing mix
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Remove turkey breast from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to reach room temperature. Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a small roasting pan by lightly greasing it with olive oil.
- In a small bowl, mix stuffing mix with chicken broth until moistened. Let it sit for 5 minutes to absorb the liquid.
- Place the seasoned turkey breast in the roasting pan. Spread the prepared stuffing mixture around the turkey breast.
- Drizzle olive oil over the turkey breast and cover the pan loosely with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning.
- Roast the turkey breast in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- About 15 minutes before the turkey is done, prepare the green beans. Blanch the trimmed green beans in boiling salted water for 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
- Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes, keeping it covered with foil to retain moisture.
- While the turkey rests, drain the green beans and season with salt and pepper.
- Slice the turkey breast against the grain and arrange on plates with the stuffing and green beans.
- Serve with cranberry sauce on the side as a festive accompaniment.
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Always let your turkey breast come to room temperature before cooking to ensure even roasting and prevent dry meat.
- Meat Thermometer is Key: Invest in a reliable meat thermometer to guarantee your turkey is perfectly cooked at 165°F (74°C) without guesswork.
- Resting is Crucial: Allow your turkey to rest after cooking. This helps redistribute the juices, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.
- Prep Ahead: You can prepare the stuffing and trim green beans earlier in the day to reduce stress during cooking.
- Cranberry Sauce Hack: If using store-bought cranberry sauce, warm it slightly to enhance its flavor and make it more spreadable.
- Portion Control: This recipe is perfectly portioned for two, minimizing waste and keeping your holiday meal intimate and special.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 85mg
