Roasted Turkey Breast With Garlic Herb Butter is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavor and warmth that brings family and friends together around the table. As the aroma of golden-brown turkey wafts through your home, memories of heartfelt gatherings and festive occasions come rushing back. This recipe has a timeless charm that appeals to both seasoned chefs and novice cooks alike. What makes Roasted Turkey Breast With Garlic Herb Butter truly special is its harmonious blend of succulent turkey and a rich, savory herb-infused butter that elevates the dish to new heights. You can almost hear the collective “wow” as everyone takes their first bite, and soon you’ll understand why this dish is a beloved favorite for holidays, special occasions, or even a cozy Sunday dinner.
What Is Roasted Turkey Breast With Garlic Herb Butter
Roasted Turkey Breast With Garlic Herb Butter is a succulent turkey dish that showcases the breast, the most tender cut of the bird, infused with a luscious garlic herb butter. Unlike traditional whole-roasted turkey, this recipe focuses on the prime cut, ensuring a quicker cooking time and juicy results. The rich, buttery coating enhances the turkey’s natural flavor, creating a crispy exterior while maintaining moistness within. It’s the ideal choice for those who want all the deliciousness without the fuss of a whole turkey, making it perfect for smaller gatherings or weeknight meals.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe
- Easy to prepare, with simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
- Impressive enough for special occasions but perfect for a casual weeknight dinner.
- Family-friendly, appealing to both adults and kids with its delightful flavor.
- Versatile; serve it with your favorite sides or as part of a sandwich the next day.
How Does It Taste?
Picture this: the first forkful of Roasted Turkey Breast With Garlic Herb Butter melts in your mouth, rich with savory notes of garlic, rosemary, and thyme. The meat is juicy and tender, with a delicate crust that adds a satisfying crunch. The herb butter seeps into every crevice, infusing the turkey with a depth of flavor that is both comforting and indulgent. Each bite is a perfect balance of savory and aromatic, leaving you craving more.
Health & Ingredient Benefits
This dish not only delights your taste buds but also offers some great health benefits:
- Turkey Breast: High in protein, making it a great choice for muscle development and repair.
- Garlic: Packed with antioxidants and known for its immune-boosting properties.
- Fresh Herbs: Rich in vitamins and minerals, enhancing both flavor and health benefits.
- Butter: While indulgent, it provides a source of energy and supports the absorption of essential nutrients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 (4-6 lb) bone-in turkey breast – The star of the dish, offering juicy meat and crispy skin.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness and helps the herbs adhere to the turkey.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – Provides a robust flavor that complements the turkey beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped – Offers a fragrant, earthy aroma and flavor.
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped – Adds a subtle floral note to the herb mix.
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped – Gives a warm, slightly peppery flavor that pairs well with turkey.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste – Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth – Keeps the turkey moist during roasting and adds depth to the flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps to crisp the skin and adds a rich flavor.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large roasting pan – To hold the turkey and collect the drippings.
- Meat thermometer – Ensures the turkey is cooked to the perfect internal temperature.
- Mixing bowl – For combining the garlic herb butter.
- Whisk or fork – To mix the butter and herbs thoroughly.
- Cutting board – For resting and slicing the turkey after roasting.
Optional Substitutions & Additions
- Dairy-free options: Substitute the unsalted butter with vegan butter or olive oil for a dairy-free version.
- Herb variations: Feel free to swap in your favorite herbs like parsley or oregano for a personalized touch.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a hint of heat.
- Add citrus: A squeeze of lemon or orange juice in the herb butter can brighten the flavors.
How to Make Roasted Turkey Breast With Garlic Herb Butter
Step 1: Prepare the Herb Butter
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, and sage. Use a whisk or fork to blend everything together until smooth and well incorporated. The mixture should be fragrant and creamy, making it easy to spread.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the turkey cooks evenly and helps achieve that golden-brown skin.
Step 3: Prepare the Turkey
Remove the turkey breast from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving crispy skin. Season the turkey generously with salt and black pepper, rubbing it all over the breast, including under the skin, if possible.
Step 4: Apply the Garlic Herb Butter
Gently lift the skin of the turkey breast and spread about half of the garlic herb butter underneath it. Take the remaining butter and rub it all over the outside of the turkey, making sure to cover the entire surface. The butter should be thickly applied, creating a flavorful crust.
Step 5: Roast the Turkey
Place the turkey breast in a large roasting pan, breast side up. Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the pan, which will help keep the turkey moist during cooking. Drizzle with olive oil for added flavor. Roast in the preheated oven for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The skin should be golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Let It Rest
Once cooked, remove the turkey breast from the oven and let it rest for at least 15-20 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every slice is juicy and tender.
Step 7: Carve and Serve
Using a sharp knife, carve the turkey breast into slices. Serve it warm, drizzled with any pan juices for added flavor. Enjoy the delicious aroma and taste of your roasted turkey breast with garlic herb butter!
What to Serve With
This roasted turkey breast pairs wonderfully with classic sides such as mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, or stuffing. For a lighter option, consider a fresh salad or roasted seasonal vegetables. To drink, a crisp white wine or a refreshing sparkling cider complements the dish beautifully.
Tips for Success
- Always let the turkey rest after roasting; this is key to juicy meat.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure precise cooking; this eliminates the guesswork.
- Don’t skip drying the turkey; moisture on the skin prevents it from crisping up.
- Feel free to customize the herbs according to your preference; make it your own!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not seasoning enough; turkey can be bland without proper seasoning.
- Cooking at too high of a temperature; this can lead to overcooked meat and burnt skin.
- Skipping the resting step; carving too soon will result in dry turkey.
- Using a frozen turkey without thawing it properly; always plan ahead for defrosting.
How to Store & Reheat
Storing
Leftover roasted turkey breast should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the turkey slices, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag, for up to 3 months.
Reheating
To reheat, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the turkey slices in a baking dish with a splash of chicken broth or water to keep them moist. Cover with foil and heat for about 20-30 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can use a microwave, heating in short intervals to avoid drying out the meat.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a boneless turkey breast? Yes, you can use a boneless turkey breast, but adjust the cooking time as it will cook faster.
- What can I do with leftover turkey? Leftover turkey is great in sandwiches, salads, or soups.
- Can I prepare the garlic herb butter in advance? Absolutely! You can prepare it a day ahead and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.
- How do I know when the turkey is done? Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (75°C).
Nutritional Info
This roasted turkey breast with garlic herb butter serves approximately 6-8 people, with each serving containing around 300-400 calories, depending on portion size. It provides a good source of protein, healthy fats from the butter, and essential vitamins from the herbs. Enjoy this delicious meal while keeping your nutritional goals in mind!
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that brings warmth and comfort to any gathering, look no further than the Roasted Turkey Breast With Garlic Herb Butter. This recipe not only elevates the humble turkey breast but also fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that will have everyone eagerly anticipating the meal. The combination of rich garlic and fragrant herbs makes each bite a delightful experience. Whether it’s for a family dinner, a holiday feast, or simply a special occasion, Roasted Turkey Breast With Garlic Herb Butter is sure to impress. I can’t recommend it enough—give it a try and watch your loved ones come back for seconds!
Roasted Turkey Breast With Garlic Herb Butter
This Juicy Roasted Turkey Breast with Garlic Herb Butter is a showstopper that’s surprisingly easy to make. Perfect for smaller gatherings or a special family dinner, this recipe elevates a simple turkey breast with a flavorful garlic and herb butter mixture.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 bone-in turkey breast (4-6 pounds)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Zest of one lemon (optional)
Instructions
-
Step 1
Thaw turkey breast in the refrigerator if frozen, allowing 24 hours for every 4-5 pounds. -
Step 2
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). -
Step 3
Mix softened butter with garlic, rosemary, thyme, sage, salt, pepper, and lemon zest in a bowl. -
Step 4
Remove turkey from packaging and pat dry with paper towels. -
Step 5
Gently loosen the skin of the turkey breast with fingers. -
Step 6
Spread about 2/3 of the garlic herb butter mixture evenly under the skin. -
Step 7
Rub the remaining butter all over the outside of the turkey breast. -
Step 8
If desired, tie the turkey breast with kitchen twine. -
Step 9
Place turkey breast in a roasting pan, skin side up. -
Step 10
Roast for about 20 minutes per pound, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). -
Step 11
Baste turkey with its juices every 30 minutes. -
Step 12
Once done, remove from oven and let rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. -
Step 13
Carve turkey breast into thin slices against the grain and serve.
Important Information
Nutrition Facts
Per serving: ~350 calories. Based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Allergy Information
Always check labels for specific allergen information.
