Roasted Turkey Breast
If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious meal that brings everyone together, you’ve come to the right place! This Roasted Turkey Breast is not just for Thanksgiving; it’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The aroma of herb butter filling your kitchen is simply irresistible, and the juicy turkey breast will have everyone coming back for seconds. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your home!
Whether it’s a cozy Sunday dinner or a special occasion, this Roasted Turkey Breast will impress your loved ones without keeping you in the kitchen all day. Let’s dive into why this recipe is such a gem!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can create a show-stopping dish without any fuss.
- Family-Friendly: Everyone loves turkey! This recipe appeals to both kids and adults alike.
- Flavorful Herb Butter: The combination of herbs in the butter adds depth and richness that makes every bite delightful.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Roast it ahead of time and enjoy leftovers for sandwiches or salads throughout the week!
- Perfectly Juicy: Following the resting instructions ensures your turkey remains moist and flavorful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients should be a breeze! These are simple, wholesome items that you may already have at home. Let’s take a look:
For the Turkey:
- 1 whole or half bone-in turkey breast (or boneless)
For the 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
Variations
One of the best things about this Roasted Turkey Breast recipe is its flexibility! Here are some fun variations to add your personal touch:
- Add Citrus Zest: Incorporate some lemon or orange zest into the herb butter for a bright twist.
- Change Up the Herbs: If you’re not a fan of sage or rosemary, try using oregano or basil instead!
- Spice It Up: For those who like it spicy, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the herb butter.
- Sweeten It Up: Mix in some honey or maple syrup with the butter for a hint of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with turkey.
How to Make Roasted Turkey Breast
Step 1: Prepare the Turkey
First things first! If your turkey breast is frozen, make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator. Plan on 24 hours of thawing time for every 5 pounds. Once ready, take it out about 20 minutes before cooking so it can reach room temperature. This helps ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Make the Herb Butter
In a bowl, combine softened butter with minced garlic, salt, pepper, thyme, rosemary, and sage until smooth. This herb butter is what makes this Roasted Turkey Breast so flavorful! Spreading it under the skin infuses moisture and taste directly into the meat.
Step 3: Season the Turkey
Now it’s time to season! Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels—this helps achieve a lovely golden color while roasting. Lightly season with additional salt and pepper on the outside. Gently loosen the skin over each side of the breast and spread some herb butter underneath it.
Step 4: Roast the Turkey
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and place your seasoned turkey breast in a roasting pan. To ensure even cooking, position oven racks so that your turkey can sit comfortably in the center. Roast at this temperature for about 14-15 minutes per pound until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once done roasting, remove your turkey from the oven and tent it loosely with aluminum foil. Letting it rest for at least 15 minutes before carving is crucial—it allows juices to redistribute within the meat for maximum flavor!
And there you have it—a beautiful Roasted Turkey Breast ready to be enjoyed by all!
Pro Tips for Making Roasted Turkey Breast
Making a perfectly roasted turkey breast is all about the details, and with a few insider tips, you’ll impress your family and friends every time!
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Choose quality turkey: Opt for fresh or organic turkeys when possible. They tend to have better flavor and texture compared to frozen ones.
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Don’t skip the resting period: Allowing the turkey to rest after roasting lets the juices redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.
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Use a meat thermometer: This ensures you cook the turkey to perfection without guessing. The ideal internal temperature is 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast.
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Experiment with herbs: While this recipe uses thyme, rosemary, and sage, feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices for a unique twist that suits your taste.
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Save the drippings: After roasting, use the drippings to make a delicious gravy or sauce. It adds an extra layer of flavor to your meal!
How to Serve Roasted Turkey Breast
Serving your roasted turkey breast can be just as delightful as preparing it! Here are some ideas to present this dish beautifully and impressively.
Garnishes
- Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or thyme on top adds a pop of color and freshness.
- Citrus slices: Arrange lemon or orange slices around the turkey for a vibrant presentation and a hint of zest.
Side Dishes
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that pairs wonderfully with turkey.
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Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: A mix of carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized brings out natural sweetness and adds color to your plate.
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Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the turkey.
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Green Bean Almondine: Lightly sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds provide a crunchy texture that’s hard to resist.
With these serving ideas in mind, your roasted turkey breast will not only be delicious but also visually appealing – perfect for any gathering! Enjoy this savory dish with loved ones around your table.
Make Ahead and Storage
This Roasted Turkey Breast recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it an excellent choice for busy weeks or special occasions. With its delicious flavors and simple preparation, you’ll want to make it ahead of time to enjoy throughout the week.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the turkey breast to cool completely after cooking.
- Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing
- Slice the leftovers into portions for easier reheating.
- Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating
- Thaw frozen turkey overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Place the turkey slices in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
- Alternatively, you can microwave individual slices on medium power in short intervals until heated.
FAQs
If you’re new to roasting turkey breast or have some questions, we’ve got you covered!
What is the best way to cook a Roasted Turkey Breast?
The best way to cook a Roasted Turkey Breast is by using a low and slow method—roasting it at 325°F (165°C) until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures that the meat is tender and juicy.
How can I keep my Roasted Turkey Breast moist?
To keep your Roasted Turkey Breast moist, use herb butter under the skin before roasting. Additionally, letting it rest after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a flavorful, juicy turkey.
Can I use this recipe for a boneless turkey breast?
Yes! This recipe works wonderfully for both bone-in and boneless turkey breasts. Just adjust your cooking time based on the weight of your boneless cut for optimal results.
Final Thoughts
I hope you find joy in preparing this Roasted Turkey Breast! It’s not just a meal; it’s a centerpiece that brings family and friends together. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday feast or as part of your weekly meal prep, it’s sure to impress. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences and variations with me!
Roasted Turkey Breast
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: Approximately 60 minutes
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
If you’re in search of a comforting and flavorful dish that suits any occasion, our Roasted Turkey Breast recipe is the answer! This succulent turkey breast, infused with a rich herb butter blend, creates an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen. Ideal for busy weeknights or family feasts, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also impressive enough for special gatherings. With its juicy texture and delightful flavors, this roasted turkey will have everyone coming back for more. Let’s explore this culinary gem!
Ingredients
- 1 whole or half bone-in turkey breast (or boneless)
- 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)
Instructions
- Prepare the turkey by thawing it completely and letting it come to room temperature for about 20 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix the softened butter with garlic, salt, pepper, and herbs until smooth and well combined.
- Pat the turkey dry and season generously with additional salt and pepper. Loosen the skin and spread herb butter underneath.
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the turkey in a roasting pan and roast for approximately 14-15 minutes per pound until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from the oven, cover loosely with foil, and let rest for at least 15 minutes before carving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 ounces (85g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
