Gordon Ramsay’s Turkey Crown Recipe [+Tips & Tricks]

Gordon Ramsay’s Turkey Crown is a show-stopping dish that combines the tender, juicy meat of the turkey with rich, flavorful stuffing, making it a perfect centerpiece for a festive meal or holiday feast. Its simplicity and elegance make it a wonderful alternative to a full turkey, ensuring that every guest gets a portion of perfectly cooked, succulent meat without the hassle of carving a large bird at the table.

What Is Gordon Ramsay’s Turkey Crown

Gordon Ramsay’s Turkey Crown is a refined version of the traditional turkey roast, consisting of just the breast meat and often the drumsticks, but without the wings or carcass. This cut is boneless or partially boned, ensuring that the meat remains juicy and tender while being much easier to carve.

The turkey crown is seasoned and roasted with aromatic herbs and spices, often filled with delicious stuffing made from fresh ingredients like breadcrumbs, herbs, and sausage. The result is a streamlined yet festive dish that’s packed with flavor.

Gordon Ramsay’s Turkey Crown Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Gordon Ramsay’s Turkey Crown, you’ll need a few key ingredients to bring out the depth of flavors that will wow your guests:

• 1 Turkey Crown (about 2 to 3 kg, skin on)
• Butter (unsalted, about 100g)
• Olive Oil (for drizzling)
• Fresh Thyme (a few sprigs)
• Fresh Rosemary (a few sprigs)
• Fresh Parsley (for garnish)
• Salt and Pepper (to taste)
• Garlic (about 4 cloves, minced)
• Lemon (1, halved)
• Sausage Meat (optional, 200g)
• Breadcrumbs (about 100g)
• Onions (1, finely chopped)
• Celery (1 stick, finely chopped)
• Chicken Stock (for basting and gravy)
• White Wine (optional, for basting)

For the stuffing:

• Breadcrumbs (100g)
• Pine Nuts (optional, a handful)
• Dried Apricots (chopped, optional)
• Cranberries (fresh or dried, optional)

Equipment Needed

The following kitchen tools will help you prepare this delicious turkey crown:

• Roasting Pan (large enough to hold the turkey crown)
• Sharp Knife (for trimming, carving, and preparing the stuffing)
• Baking Tray (if you choose to roast stuffing separately)
• Frying Pan (for sautéing vegetables for the stuffing)
• Meat Thermometer (optional, but useful for ensuring the turkey is perfectly cooked)
• Kitchen Twine (if you need to tie up the crown for even roasting)
• Aluminum Foil (to tent the turkey while resting)
• Basting Brush (for applying butter and liquids)

How To Make Gordon Ramsay’s Turkey Crown?

1. Prep The Turkey Crown

Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Pat the turkey crown dry with paper towels.

Rub the bird with olive oil, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Season generously with salt and pepper.

2. Stuffing

In a pan, sauté chopped onions, garlic, and celery in a little butter or oil until softened. Add the sausage meat, and cook until browned.

Stir in the breadcrumbs and any additional ingredients such as dried apricots or cranberries. Once everything is well combined, stuff the mixture into the cavity of the turkey crown. If there’s excess stuffing, bake it separately in a tray.

3. Roasting

Place the turkey crown in a roasting pan. Add sprigs of rosemary and thyme around the turkey.

Put the lemon halves inside the cavity to infuse flavor. Dot the turkey with small pieces of butter.

Roast for 1.5 to 2 hours (depending on size), basting with chicken stock or white wine every 30 minutes. The internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F) when done.

4. Rest The Turkey

Once cooked, remove the turkey from the oven and cover loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving to ensure the juices settle.

5. Serving

Carve the turkey crown and serve with the stuffing and other sides of your choice, such as roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.

Expert Tips

1. Brine the Turkey Crown: If you want to ensure extra juiciness, consider brining your turkey crown in a mixture of water, salt, and sugar for 4-6 hours before roasting. This will help the meat retain moisture during cooking.
2. Flavor Boost with Herbs and Butter: Rub fresh herbs under the skin and add butter. This method keeps the meat flavorful and ensures a crispy, golden skin.
3. Roast with a Temperature Probe: To avoid overcooking, use a meat thermometer. When the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F), your turkey crown is perfectly cooked.
4. Resting is Key: Letting the turkey rest after roasting allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat tender and moist.
5. Stuffing Alternatives: Feel free to get creative with the stuffing! You can use a mixture of mushrooms, chestnuts, or even quinoa for a gluten-free option.

Gordon Ramsay’s Turkey Crown is the ideal centerpiece for any holiday meal. It’s succulent, flavorful, and significantly easier to carve and serve than a whole turkey.

With its beautifully roasted golden skin and rich, aromatic stuffing, this dish provides an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a special family occasion, this dish will impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds. The combination of tender turkey and savory stuffing is guaranteed to elevate your festive spread!.

Easy Recipe Variations For Gordon Ramsay’s Turkey Crown

Gordon Ramsay’s turkey crown recipe is a brilliant way to elevate any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner, holiday feast, or a gathering with friends. However, it’s always exciting to experiment with variations to suit different tastes or make the dish more personal. Below are some easy yet delicious recipe modifications to take Ramsay’s turkey crown to the next level:

1. Herb-Infused Butter Variation:
   One of the signature elements of Ramsay’s turkey crown is the herb butter, but you can tweak it by experimenting with different herbs and additional ingredients. Instead of just rosemary and thyme, try adding sage, oregano, or even fresh parsley. You can also mix in crushed garlic, lemon zest, or grated Parmesan for an extra punch of flavor. This herb butter will add moisture to the meat while infusing it with delicious aromatics.

2. Citrus and Spice Turkey Crown:
   For a more exotic flavor profile, try a citrus-spiced version of the turkey. You can marinate the turkey crown in a mixture of orange, lemon, and lime zest, with a splash of juice, cinnamon, paprika, and a hint of cayenne pepper. This variation offers a fresh, tangy contrast to the richness of the bird, and the spices give the skin a beautiful, caramelized finish.

3. Maple and Mustard Glaze:
   If you enjoy a sweet-savory combination, consider glazing the turkey with a maple syrup and Dijon mustard mix. Simply combine 3 parts maple syrup with 1 part Dijon mustard, along with a little apple cider vinegar to balance the sweetness. Brush this glaze over the turkey during the final 30 minutes of roasting, ensuring the skin turns golden brown and slightly crispy.

4. Bacon-Wrapped Turkey Crown:
   Add a smoky and savory twist to the turkey crown by wrapping it in crispy bacon. The bacon not only enhances the flavor but also creates a barrier that helps to retain moisture within the meat. Before wrapping, season the turkey with your choice of herbs, and roast it until the bacon is perfectly crispy and the turkey is tender and juicy.

5. Stuffed Turkey Crown:
   For added richness, consider stuffing your turkey crown with a variety of ingredients such as sausage, apples, chestnuts, or cranberries. You could even add sautéed onions and leeks for extra depth of flavor. Be cautious not to overstuff the turkey crown to ensure that it cooks evenly. A well-stuffed turkey crown offers delightful textures and flavor combinations.

6. Asian-Inspired Turkey Crown:
   For a unique twist, create an Asian-inspired turkey crown. Marinate the bird in soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and a little honey or brown sugar. Serve it with a side of stir-fried vegetables and rice for an unconventional but delicious turkey meal. This approach adds a savory umami profile with a bit of sweetness and complexity.

By mixing and matching these variations, you can elevate Gordon Ramsay’s turkey crown recipe to fit your preferences, whether you lean toward fresh herbs, rich glazes, or even international flavors.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Leftover turkey crown can be just as delightful the next day, but it’s important to store it properly to preserve its flavor and texture. Here are some essential guidelines for storing leftover turkey:

1. Cool Down Quickly:
   As tempting as it might be to dive into leftovers immediately, it’s crucial to allow the turkey to cool down properly. You should aim to cool the turkey to room temperature within two hours of cooking. If you leave it out too long, it can enter the "danger zone" of 40-140°F (4-60°C), which is ideal for bacteria growth.

2. Storage Containers:
   To prevent the turkey from drying out or absorbing other odors in the fridge, place it in airtight containers or tightly wrap it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also use resealable freezer bags for easy storage. If possible, store the turkey crown whole or in large portions so it retains moisture longer.

3. Refrigeration:
   Leftover turkey should be stored in the fridge at 40°F (4°C) or lower. Consume the leftover turkey within 3 to 4 days to ensure it remains safe and tasty. If you’re unable to finish the leftovers within this timeframe, consider freezing them for longer storage.

4. Freezing Leftovers:
   If you have a significant amount of leftover turkey, freezing is a great option. First, carve the turkey into portions and wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer bag or container. Be sure to label the package with the date. Frozen turkey can last for up to 4 months in the freezer.

5. Reheating Leftovers:
   When reheating turkey, it’s important to do so gently to preserve the flavor and moisture. Ideally, you should reheat turkey in the oven at 325°F (165°C) covered with foil to prevent it from drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals with a bit of moisture (e.g., a splash of broth or water) to keep it juicy.

6. Leftover Turkey Recipes:
   Get creative with leftover turkey by using it in soups, sandwiches, salads, or casseroles. You can make a turkey pot pie, turkey salad, or even use it in tacos with some fresh toppings. Repurposing leftovers in these ways can help prevent food waste while offering you new and exciting meal ideas.

What Goes Well With Turkey Crown?

Pairing your turkey crown with complementary side dishes can enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some fantastic options that perfectly complement the succulent turkey:

1. Roasted Vegetables:
   Roasted root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, sweet potatoes, and Brussels sprouts make for a hearty and nutritious side dish. The caramelized sweetness of the vegetables works wonderfully with the savory flavor of turkey.

2. Cranberry Sauce:
   A traditional favorite, cranberry sauce provides a tangy sweetness that balances the richness of the turkey. You can make it fresh with orange zest and a touch of cinnamon, or opt for a store-bought version for convenience.

3. Stuffing or Dressing:
   Whether you go for a classic breadcrumb stuffing or a more complex version with sausage, apples, and nuts, stuffing is a comforting and flavorful side that complements the turkey’s flavors. Don’t forget to add fresh herbs like sage or thyme to elevate the stuffing.

4. Mashed Potatoes:
   Creamy mashed potatoes are a go-to side dish for turkey, offering a smooth and rich contrast to the slightly crisp turkey skin. You can add garlic, cheese, or sour cream to your mashed potatoes for added richness.

5. Gravy:
   A rich, flavorful turkey gravy made from the pan drippings can bring the whole meal together. Pour it generously over the turkey, mashed potatoes, and stuffing for an indulgent touch.

6. Green Beans Almondine:
   Lightly sautéed green beans with almonds add a crispy texture and a bit of nuttiness to the meal. It’s a simple yet elegant side that offers freshness to balance the richness of the turkey and other side dishes.

7. Roasted Garlic Bread:
   For a comforting, carb-filled side, serve roasted garlic bread with your turkey crown. The crispy, buttery bread works wonderfully when sopped in gravy or turkey juices.

Conclusion

Gordon Ramsay’s turkey crown recipe is a versatile and delicious dish that can be tailored to your tastes. From adding unique flavors like citrus and spice to experimenting with various stuffing options, you can truly make the dish your own.

Storing leftovers properly ensures that you can continue enjoying the flavors of the turkey for days to come. Whether you pair the turkey crown with classic mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a rich gravy, the key to a great meal is balancing the flavors and textures. So, get creative, store those leftovers carefully, and enjoy every bite of your turkey crown masterpiece!.

FAQs

What Is A Turkey Crown?

A turkey crown is the boneless breast of a turkey with the wings and legs removed. It is a convenient option for roasting and is perfect for smaller gatherings where you don’t need the entire turkey. The meat is tender and easier to carve.

How Does Gordon Ramsay Recommend Cooking A Turkey Crown?

Gordon Ramsay suggests a simple yet flavorful approach to cooking a turkey crown. He recommends seasoning the meat generously with salt, pepper, and herbs like rosemary and thyme. The turkey crown should be roasted at 180°C (350°F) for about 1 hour 15 minutes, depending on the size of the crown, until it reaches an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F).

Should I Cover The Turkey Crown While Cooking?

No, Gordon Ramsay does not recommend covering the turkey crown during cooking as it helps the skin to become crispy and golden. However, you can cover it loosely with foil for the first 30 minutes to prevent the meat from drying out.

Can I Cook A Turkey Crown Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can cook the turkey crown ahead of time. Once cooked, allow it to rest and then store it in the refrigerator. To reheat, simply cover it in foil and warm it in the oven at a low temperature (around 150°C or 300°F) to ensure it stays moist.

What Side Dishes Pair Well With A Turkey Crown?

Gordon Ramsay often pairs turkey with traditional sides such as roast potatoes, Brussels sprouts, carrots, stuffing, and a rich gravy. You can also add a cranberry sauce or a roasted vegetable medley for extra flavor.

How Do I Make The Turkey Crown Skin Crispy?

To get crispy skin, Gordon Ramsay recommends brushing the turkey crown with melted butter or oil and seasoning the skin with salt. The high heat of roasting helps to render the fat and crisps up the skin. Make sure the turkey is roasted on a rack, so air circulates around it.

What Should The Internal Temperature Of The Turkey Crown Be?

The internal temperature of the turkey crown should reach 75°C (165°F) when measured at the thickest part of the breast. This ensures that the turkey is fully cooked and safe to eat while remaining moist.

Can I Stuff The Turkey Crown?

Gordon Ramsay typically advises against stuffing a turkey crown as it can affect the cooking time and lead to uneven cooking. Instead, he recommends making a separate stuffing that can be roasted alongside the turkey.

How Long Should I Rest The Turkey Crown Before Carving?

After removing the turkey crown from the oven, let it rest for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, making it more tender and juicy when carved.

Can I Add Flavor To The Turkey Crown While It Cooks?

Yes, Gordon Ramsay suggests adding flavor by placing aromatic herbs like rosemary, thyme, and garlic under the skin or inside the cavity. You can also baste the turkey with butter or its own juices for extra flavor and moisture.