Roasted Turkey Breast

Roasted Turkey Breast is a delightful dish perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner. This recipe highlights the juicy flavor and tenderness of the turkey, enhanced by a fragrant herb butter. The simplicity of preparation makes it accessible for cooks of all skill levels, ensuring your gathering will be memorable with this flavorful centerpiece.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Juicy: The herb butter infuses the turkey with rich flavors while keeping it moist.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can achieve delicious results.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or a comforting weeknight meal.
• Impressive Presentation: A beautifully roasted turkey breast makes for an eye-catching centerpiece on any table.
• Healthy Option: Lean turkey breast is a great source of protein and can fit into various diets.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Roasted Turkey Breast experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the necessary tools ahead of time. Having everything ready will allow you to focus on perfecting your dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Roasting pan
• Meat thermometer
• Mixing bowl
• Basting brush
• Aluminum foil

Importance of Each Tool

• Roasting pan: Provides even cooking and collects drippings for sauces.
• Meat thermometer: Ensures the turkey is cooked perfectly without overcooking.
• Mixing bowl: Keeps ingredients organized while preparing the herb butter.
• Basting brush: Makes it easy to apply herb butter evenly over the turkey.

Ingredients

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

How to Make Roasted Turkey Breast

Step 1: Prepare the Turkey

1. If frozen, thaw the turkey breast in the refrigerator. Allow 24 hours of thawing for every 5 pounds.
2. Remove the turkey from the fridge about 20 minutes before cooking to bring it closer to room temperature.
3. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).

Step 2: Make the Herb Butter

1. In a bowl, combine softened butter, garlic, salt, pepper, thyme, rosemary, and sage until smooth.

Step 3: Season the Turkey

1. Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels.
2. Lightly season the outside with additional salt and pepper.
3. Gently loosen the skin and spread a spoonful of herb butter underneath, coating both sides of the breast.
4. Rub the remaining herb butter evenly over the entire outside of the turkey.
5. Place the prepared turkey breast in a roasting pan or baking dish.

Step 4: Roast the Turkey

1. Position oven racks so that the turkey breast sits in the center of the oven.
2. Roast at 325°F (165°C) for about 14–15 minutes per pound or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast.
3. Tip: Remove just before it reaches 165°F; it continues cooking while resting.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

1. Remove from oven and tent loosely with aluminum foil.
2. Let rest for at least 15 minutes before carving to lock in juices.

Now you’re ready to impress your guests with this stunning Roasted Turkey Breast! Enjoy every delicious bite!

How to Serve Roasted Turkey Breast

Roasted turkey breast is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner, there are plenty of delicious options to complement the rich flavors of the turkey.

Sandwiches

• Use slices of roasted turkey breast in sandwiches with your favorite condiments like mayo, lettuce, and tomatoes for a fresh and satisfying meal.

Salads

• Chop the roasted turkey breast and toss it into a salad with mixed greens, cranberries, and walnuts for a light yet filling dish.

Wraps

• Wrap turkey slices in a tortilla with avocado, cheese, and veggies for an easy-to-make lunch or snack.

Thanksgiving Plates

• Serve slices alongside traditional sides like stuffing, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce for a classic holiday meal.

Cold Cuts Platter

• Arrange cold slices of turkey breast on a platter with cheeses, olives, and crackers for an appetizer that’s perfect for gatherings.

How to Perfect Roasted Turkey Breast

Achieving the ultimate roasted turkey breast requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your turkey turns out juicy and flavorful every time.

• Thaw Properly: Make sure your turkey is completely thawed before cooking. This helps ensure even cooking throughout the meat.
• Bring to Room Temperature: Allow the turkey breast to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before roasting. This promotes more even cooking.
• Use Thermometer: Invest in a meat thermometer to check internal temperatures accurately. Remove the turkey when it reaches 160°F (71°C) since it will continue cooking while resting.
• Let It Rest: After roasting, let your turkey rest covered with foil for at least 15 minutes. This step locks in juices and enhances flavor.
• Season Generously: Don’t skimp on seasoning! A good herb butter mixture under the skin adds flavor and moisture to the meat.

Best Side Dishes for Roasted Turkey Breast

Pairing side dishes with roasted turkey breast elevates your meal. Here are some excellent options that work well together.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting side that complements the savory flavors of roasted turkey.
2. Green Beans Almondine: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with almonds add both texture and elegance to your table setting.
3. Stuffing: A classic stuffing made with bread cubes, herbs, and vegetables provides a hearty companion to the tender meat.
4. Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of homemade cranberry sauce balances out the richness of roasted turkey perfectly.
5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil and roast until golden brown for a crunchy side dish that brings additional nutrients.
6. Sweet Potato Casserole: This sweet dish topped with pecans or marshmallows adds a delightful contrast to savory flavors on your plate.
7. Cornbread Muffins: Moist cornbread muffins offer a slightly sweet touch that’s great alongside savory dishes like roasted turkey.
8. Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad featuring seasonal greens dressed lightly can cleanse the palate between bites of rich turkey.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking a Roasted Turkey Breast can be easy, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the Thawing Process: Make sure to thaw your turkey breast completely before cooking. A frozen turkey will not cook evenly and may remain undercooked in the center.
• Not Bringing to Room Temperature: Always let the turkey sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before roasting. This helps ensure even cooking throughout.
• Ignoring Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check that the thickest part of the breast reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove it just before this temperature to allow for carryover cooking.
• Overseasoning: While seasoning is important, too much salt can make your turkey breast overly salty. Lightly season before cooking and adjust as needed afterward.
• Cutting Too Soon: Allow the turkey to rest for at least 15 minutes after roasting. This step locks in the juices, ensuring a moist and flavorful meat.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover roasted turkey breast in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Roasted Turkey Breast

• Wrap the turkey breast tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container; it can be frozen for up to 6 months.

Reheating Roasted Turkey Breast

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the turkey in a baking dish, add a splash of broth or water, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Slice the turkey and place it on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat in short intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat slices of turkey in a skillet over medium heat with a little broth or water, covering until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding how to make a delicious Roasted Turkey Breast.

What is the best way to cook a Turkey Breast?

The best way is to roast it at 325°F (165°C) for about 14–15 minutes per pound, ensuring an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

How do you keep Roasted Turkey Breast moist?

To keep it moist, apply herb butter under the skin and allow it to rest after cooking. This helps retain juices.

Can I use herbs other than thyme and rosemary?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other herbs like oregano or parsley for different flavor profiles.

How long do I need to let my Roasted Turkey Breast rest?

Let your roasted turkey breast rest for at least 15 minutes after removing it from the oven. This resting time ensures juicy meat upon carving.

Is it better to use bone-in or boneless Turkey Breast?

Bone-in turkey breasts generally provide more flavor and tend to stay moister during cooking compared to boneless cuts.

Final Thoughts

This recipe for Roasted Turkey Breast is not only simple but also versatile, perfect for any occasion. You can customize it by adding your favorite herbs or spices, making it suitable for holidays or weeknight dinners alike. Give this delicious dish a try!