If you love meals that blend comforting flavors with effortless preparation, you’re going to adore this French Onion Turkey Tenderloin in Creamy Onion Soup Sauce Recipe. This dish masterfully combines tender turkey with a rich, savory sauce that tastes like the classic French onion soup but with a creamy twist, all slow-cooked to perfection. It’s an absolute game-changer for weeknight dinners or feeding a crowd, delivering deep, cozy flavors without demanding hours of hands-on time in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What’s so great about this recipe is how simple yet essential each ingredient is, working together to create a dish bursting with flavor, perfect texture, and beautiful warm tones. From the juicy turkey tenderloins to the creamy soup base and savory onion mix, every element plays a vital role.
- Turkey tenderloins (2 at 1.5 lbs each): The lean, tender meat that acts as the star, soaking up all the flavors beautifully.
- Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup (10.5 oz can): Adds creamy richness and a smooth texture without overpowering the dish.
- Lipton’s Onion Soup Mix (2 envelopes): Brings that classic French onion soup seasoning to the party, packed with savory, oniony goodness.
- Low-sodium chicken broth (½ cup): Provides moisture and depth, ensuring the turkey stays juicy and tender during cooking.
- Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning to enhance natural flavors, used on the turkey before cooking.
How to Make French Onion Turkey Tenderloin in Creamy Onion Soup Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Turkey
Start by placing your turkey tenderloins right into the slow cooker. Give them a light seasoning of salt and pepper, if you like. This simple step sets the foundation for that wonderful, savory flavor that makes this French Onion Turkey Tenderloin in Creamy Onion Soup Sauce Recipe so special.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Onion Soup Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the unsalted cream of chicken soup, both envelopes of Lipton’s onion soup mix, and the chicken broth until the mixture is smooth. This sauce is the heart of the dish—it combines creamy texture with a rich onion flavor that makes every bite melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
Step 3: Pour and Cook Low and Slow
Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the turkey tenderloins in the slow cooker. Cover it up and let it cook on LOW for 4 to 6 hours. This slow cooking is critical: it allows the turkey to soak up the creamy onion sauce, ensuring each forkful is tender and flavorful without any fuss.
Step 4: Shred and Stir to Combine
Once the cooking is done, remove the turkey tenderloins and use two forks to shred the meat to your preferred texture—fine or chunky, it’s up to you! Return the shredded turkey right back into the slow cooker and stir it into the remaining sauce. This combines all those amazing juices and ensures every piece is dripping with creamy onion goodness.
How to Serve French Onion Turkey Tenderloin in Creamy Onion Soup Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkling of fresh thyme or a little chopped parsley adds a bright, fresh pop of color and herbal aroma that balances the rich, creamy sauce perfectly. You could even add a little shredded Swiss or Gruyère cheese to echo the French onion soup inspiration.
Side Dishes
This dish begs for classic, comforting sides. Think creamy mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, or a crusty baguette to soak up every last bit of that luscious sauce. Roasted green beans or a crisp green salad also make a refreshing contrast to the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this dish family-style straight from the slow cooker at the table for a cozy vibe, or plate the shredded turkey over a fluffy bed of rice or polenta for a more elegant presentation. You can even stuff the tender shredded turkey into warm pita pockets with some greens for a creative, casual twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover French Onion Turkey Tenderloin in Creamy Onion Soup Sauce Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors even deepen after resting, making it just as delightful the next day.
Freezing
If you want to stash some away for a busy night, this dish freezes very well. Place cooled leftovers in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Be sure to leave some headspace as the sauce may expand slightly.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure the sauce stays creamy and doesn’t separate. Add a splash of chicken broth if it thickens too much during storage for a perfectly saucy finish.
FAQs
Can I use chicken instead of turkey for this recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken tenderloins or boneless breasts work just as well. Adjust cooking time slightly if needed, but the flavors will remain just as delicious.
Is it possible to make this recipe without a slow cooker?
You can adapt it for the oven by simmering the sauce on the stovetop and then baking the turkey in a covered dish at 325°F for about 2 hours. Just keep it moist with extra broth if needed.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe? If yes, which ones?
Definitely! Carrots, mushrooms, or pearl onions can be added for extra texture and flavor. Add them to the slow cooker at the start so they cook tender along with the turkey.
What kind of turkey tenderloin should I buy?
Look for fresh or thawed turkey tenderloins that are plump and moist with no off odors. Organic or free-range options can add a bit more flavor and quality to your dish.
Is this dish gluten-free?
The base ingredients are generally gluten-free, but always check the labels on the cream of chicken soup and onion soup mix to ensure they don’t contain gluten additives if you have dietary restrictions.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so deeply satisfying about the way the savory creaminess of the sauce melds with tender, juicy turkey in this French Onion Turkey Tenderloin in Creamy Onion Soup Sauce Recipe. It’s an easy-to-make, comforting classic that deserves a spot in your regular dinner rotation. Give it a try—you just might find a new favorite for busy nights or special gatherings alike!
Print
French Onion Turkey Tenderloin in Creamy Onion Soup Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This French Onion Turkey Tenderloin recipe features tender, slow-cooked turkey infused with a rich and savory onion soup sauce. Using a slow cooker, the turkey becomes juicy and flavorful, making it an effortless and delicious meal perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
Turkey Tenderloin
- 2 (1.5-lb) turkey tenderloins (3 pounds total)
Sauce
- 1 (10.5-oz) can unsalted cream of chicken soup
- 2 (1-oz) envelopes Lipton’s Onion Soup Mix
- ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
Instructions
- Prepare the Turkey: Place the turkey tenderloins in the slow cooker. Season with salt and pepper according to your preference for added flavor.
- Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the unsalted cream of chicken soup, Lipton’s onion soup mix, and low-sodium chicken broth until well combined.
- Cook the Turkey: Pour the soup mixture evenly over the turkey in the slow cooker. Cover with the lid and set the cooker to LOW. Let it cook for 4 to 6 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the turkey to become tender.
- Shred and Serve: Once cooked, remove the turkey from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded turkey to the slow cooker and stir well to coat with the sauce before serving.
Notes
- You can season the turkey with additional salt and pepper if desired before cooking.
- Cooking time can vary slightly depending on your slow cooker; ensure turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
