Roasted Turkey Breast

why make this recipe

Roasted turkey breast is a classic dish that brings warmth and flavor to any occasion. It is perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or a simple Sunday dinner. Cooking a turkey breast is not only easier than roasting a whole turkey but also results in juicy, tender meat that everyone will love. Plus, with the addition of herb butter, you elevate the dish with delicious flavors that enhance the turkey’s natural taste.

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how to make Roasted Turkey Breast

Ingredients:

Turkey:

• 1 whole or half bone-in turkey breast (or boneless)

Herb Butter:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 ½ teaspoons fresh rosemary, chopped
• ½ teaspoon fresh sage, chopped

Directions:

1. Prepare the Turkey
   If frozen, thaw the turkey breast in the refrigerator. Allow 24 hours of thawing for every 5 pounds. When ready to cook, take the turkey out of the fridge about 20 minutes beforehand to bring it closer to room temperature.

2. Preheat the Oven
   Set your oven to 325°F (165°C).

3. Make the Herb Butter
   In a bowl, mix the softened butter, minced garlic, salt, pepper, thyme, rosemary, and sage until it is smooth.

4. Season the Turkey
   Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. Lightly season the outside with extra salt and pepper. Gently loosen the skin, and then spread a spoonful of herb butter underneath, coating both sides of the breast. Rub the remaining herb butter all over the outside of the turkey.

5. Roast the Turkey
   Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan or baking dish. Position your oven racks so the turkey breast sits in the center of the oven. Roast at 325°F (165°C) for about 14–15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast. Tip: Remove the turkey just before it hits 165°F, as it will continue to cook while resting.

6. Rest and Serve
   Once done, take the turkey out of the oven and tent it loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for at least 15 minutes before carving to lock in the juices.

how to serve Roasted Turkey Breast

Serve the roasted turkey breast with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or cranberry sauce. You can also slice it thinly for sandwiches or salads.

how to store Roasted Turkey Breast

Allow any leftover turkey to cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the cooked turkey breast. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, and it will last in the freezer for up to 3 months.

tips to make Roasted Turkey Breast

• Make sure to season generously for maximum flavor.
• Always let the turkey rest before carving for juicier meat.
• Test the doneness with a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
• Experiment with different herbs in the butter for unique flavors.

variation

You can try adding other ingredients to the herb butter, such as lemon zest for a zesty kick or red pepper flakes for some heat.

FAQs

1. Can I use a boneless turkey breast?
Yes, you can use a boneless turkey breast. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as boneless cuts usually cook faster.

2. How do I know when the turkey is cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the breast.

3. Can I make the herb butter ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the herb butter up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

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