When the holiday season rolls around, there’s nothing quite like the mouthwatering aroma of a roast turkey filling your kitchen. Imagine walking into your home as the scent of garlic and fresh herbs envelops you, drawing friends and family to the dining table, eager for a taste. This Garlic Herb Butter Roast Turkey Breast isn’t just a meal—it’s your ticket to becoming the star of any festive gathering.
With its buttery, golden-brown skin and juicy, tender meat, this dish promises to be a show-stopping centerpiece, all without the hassle of brining. Plus, the leftovers (if there are any!) make for delightful sandwiches or hearty salads. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or hosting an intimate dinner, this turkey breast is versatile enough to shine on any occasion. Let’s dive into this simple, yet impressive recipe that will elevate your holiday menu!
Why is Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic Herb Butter a Must-Try?
Flavor Explosion: The combination of aromatic garlic and fresh herbs creates a deliciously rich flavor profile that will tantalize your taste buds.
Juiciness Guaranteed: With perfectly applied herb butter, the turkey remains incredibly moist, ensuring every bite is succulent.
Effortless Preparation: No brining required means you can save time while still enjoying a standout dish.
Versatile Feast: This recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy dinners, delighting guests of all kinds.
Leftover Potential: The juicy meat makes for wonderful leftovers, perfect for sandwiches or salads, allowing you to enjoy the feast even after the holiday is over!
Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic Herb Butter Ingredients
For the Turkey
• Turkey Breast – Bone-in, skin-on ensures maximum moisture and flavor; you can also use a deboned turkey breast if desired.
• Salt – Enhances the overall taste; sea salt or kosher salt works well too.
• Black Pepper – Adds a delicious seasoning kick; no alternatives necessary.
For the Herb Butter
• Fresh Herbs (Rosemary, Sage, Thyme) – Infuse the turkey with aromatic flavors; feel free to substitute with dried herbs if fresh isn’t available.
• Garlic Cloves – Bring richness and aroma to the dish; fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder can substitute in a pinch.
• Unsalted Butter – Creates a luscious garlic herb butter to baste the turkey, keeping it juicy—margarine can be used but won’t deliver the same flavor.
For Roasting
• Garlic and Herbs (for baking dish) – Place under the turkey to enhance moisture and flavor throughout the cooking process; they contribute to the drippings for your sauce.
This Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic Herb Butter is bound to be the highlight of your holiday table, bringing warmth and joy to your family gatherings!
How to Make Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic Herb Butter
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Prep: Remove the turkey breast from the fridge and let it sit for 45 minutes at room temperature. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 200°C/390°F so it’s nice and hot for roasting.
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Prepare Herb Butter: In a mixing bowl, combine softened butter with minced garlic, salt, and chopped fresh herbs. It should be fragrant and well-mixed, ready to bring flavor to your turkey!
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Loosen Skin: With a teaspoon, gently loosen the skin from the turkey breast. This will create a pocket to hold the delicious herb butter for maximum flavor.
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Apply Butter: Generously smear 2/3 of the herb butter mixture under the skin. Then, spread the remaining butter on top of the turkey, ensuring it’s fully covered. This will help achieve that beautiful golden-brown skin.
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Prepare for Roasting: Place garlic and leftover herbs in a baking dish, followed by the turkey breast, skin-side up. Season generously with salt and pepper to enhance the overall taste.
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Roast: Cook the turkey in the oven at 180°C/350°F for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Remember to baste the turkey every 30 minutes with its own juices for even cooking.
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Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 74°C/165°F. If the skin starts browning too quickly, cover the turkey with foil.
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Rest: Once cooked, allow the turkey to rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. This step is crucial to keeping the meat juicy!
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Make Sauce: Don’t forget the pan juices! Use them to create a simple sauce, adding even more flavor to your meals.
Optional: Serve with cranberry sauce or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic Herb Butter
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Meat Thermometer Necessity: Using a meat thermometer is vital; it ensures your turkey breast is cooked perfectly and remains juicy.
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Thaw Thoroughly: Make sure the turkey breast is fully thawed before cooking. Avoid microwave thawing, as this can lead to uneven cooking.
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Don’t Skip Resting: Allow the turkey to rest after roasting. This step ensures that the juices redistribute evenly, resulting in a succulent roast turkey breast.
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Baste Wisely: Basting every 30 minutes helps keep the turkey moist, but be careful not to open the oven too frequently; this can drop the temperature.
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Herb Substitutions: Feel free to experiment with different fresh herbs! For instance, tarragon or marjoram can add a unique flavor twist to your roast turkey breast.
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Leftover Care: If there are any leftovers, keep them whole for better texture the next day. Slice just before serving to maintain juiciness.
Make Ahead Options
These Garlic Herb Butter Roast Turkey Breasts are absolutely perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the herb butter and apply it under the skin up to 24 hours in advance, then refrigerate the turkey breast until you’re ready to roast. This advance prep not only saves you time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring your turkey is just as delicious when cooked. Additionally, you can season the turkey and place it in the baking dish with garlic and herbs the night before. When it’s time to serve, simply let the turkey sit at room temperature for 45 minutes, roast as directed, and enjoy a delightful centerpiece with minimal fuss!
What to Serve with Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic Herb Butter?
Create an unforgettable holiday meal that beautifully complements the rich flavors of your roasted turkey masterpiece.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These dreamy potatoes add a silky texture that pairs perfectly with the juicy turkey and its savory sauce.
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Cranberry Sauce: This sweet-tart condiment brightens each bite, balancing the rich butteriness of the turkey for a harmonious feast.
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Honey Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness and vibrant color create a delightful contrast to the savory turkey, adding a touch of elegance to your spread.
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Sautéed Green Beans: Fresh and crisp, these beans provide a lovely crunch that enhances the overall dining experience, bringing freshness to the table.
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Stuffing: A classic holiday staple, stuffing made with herbs and toasted bread brings a comforting, hearty element that pairs beautifully alongside the turkey.
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Warm Dinner Rolls: Soft, fluffy rolls are perfect for mopping up leftover juices from the turkey, making every bite a satisfying delight.
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Red Wine: The subtle tannins in a good red wine beautifully complement the buttery richness of the turkey, elevating your festive gathering.
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Pumpkin Pie: End your meal on a sweet note with this classic dessert, whose warm spices echo the flavors of the roast turkey, creating a comforting finish.
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Apple Crisp: This warm, gooey dessert offers a delightful contrast to the savory turkey feast, with its sweet and tart flavors rounding off your meal.
Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic Herb Butter Variations
Feel free to explore and personalize this recipe to make it your own. The possibilities are as mouthwatering as the original!
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Herb Swaps: Experiment with other fresh herbs like tarragon or marjoram for a unique flavor twist. Each herb brings its own character, making the dish truly yours.
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Citrus Zest: Add lemon or orange zest to the herb butter for a bright and zesty flavor. It awakens the taste buds and complements the richness of the turkey beautifully.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or some crushed red pepper flakes to the butter for added heat. This variation creates a delightful contrast against the buttery richness.
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Garlic Variation: For a different garlic profile, try roasting the garlic before mixing it into the butter. Roasted garlic delivers a sweet, caramelized depth that’s irresistible.
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Maple Glaze: Brush a simple maple syrup mix over the turkey during the last 30 minutes of roasting for a sweet, crispy finish. This delightful contrast pairs excellently with savory flavors.
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Slow Cooker Magic: Transform this recipe by cooking it in a slow cooker! Follow the same butter application process, but let it cook on low for 6-8 hours for truly tender meat.
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Dairy-Free Version: Substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter. Your turkey will still be juicy and full of flavor!
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Stuffed Variation: Consider stuffing the turkey breast with a mixture of bread crumbs, herbs, and nuts for added texture. This twist transforms each slice into a delicious surprise!
Explore these variations to turn your Garlic Herb Butter Roast Turkey Breast into a culinary experience that reflects your personal tastes!
How to Store and Freeze Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic Herb Butter
Fridge: Store any leftover roast turkey breast in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep it fresh and flavorful.
Freezer: If you want to freeze leftovers, wrap the turkey tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer bag. It can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, allow the turkey to thaw overnight in the fridge. Heat in the oven at 180°C/350°F for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
Leftover Potential: Enjoy the juicy meat in sandwiches or salads, making the most out of this delicious roast turkey breast with garlic herb butter!
Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic Herb Butter Recipe FAQs
How do I choose a perfect turkey breast for roasting?
Absolutely! When selecting a turkey breast, look for bone-in, skin-on options for maximum moisture and flavor. It’s best to avoid any packages with excess liquid or that feel slimy. If you’re going for a deboned breast, ensure it’s from a reputable source to guarantee freshness.
How should I store leftover roast turkey breast?
Very simply! Store any leftover roast turkey breast in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s fully cooled before sealing it to ensure freshness. For longer storage, consider freezing it!
Can I freeze roast turkey breast with garlic herb butter?
Certainly! To freeze, wrap the turkey tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer bag, squeezing out as much air as possible. This method protects the turkey from freezer burn, allowing you to enjoy it for up to 3 months!
What if my turkey breast is not browning properly?
No worries! If you notice your turkey isn’t browning as expected, it might need a bit more time in the oven. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer—it should reach 74°C/165°F. If it’s getting too dark on the outside but isn’t cooked inside, cover it with foil to prevent further browning while it finishes cooking.
Can pets eat garlic in roast turkey?
Please be cautious! Garlic can be toxic to pets in sufficient amounts, so it’s best to avoid feeding them any leftovers that include garlic. Stick to plain, unseasoned turkey if you’d like to share some with your furry friend.
What can I do to achieve maximum juiciness and flavor in my turkey breast?
To lock in the juiciness and flavor, ensure you apply the herb butter generously beneath the skin and baste every 30 minutes while roasting. This helps to infuse the meat with all those delicious flavors while keeping it moist. Always remember to let the turkey rest after cooking—this vital step allows the juices to redistribute, making every slice succulent and tender.
Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic Herb Butter for Juicy Perfection
Ingredients Â
Equipment
MethodÂ
- Remove the turkey breast from the fridge and let it sit for 45 minutes at room temperature. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 200°C/390°F.
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened butter with minced garlic, salt, and chopped fresh herbs.
- Gently loosen the skin from the turkey breast creating a pocket to hold the herb butter.
- Generously smear 2/3 of the herb butter mixture under the skin and spread the remaining butter on top of the turkey.
- Place garlic and leftover herbs in a baking dish, followed by the turkey breast, skin-side up. Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook the turkey in the oven at 180°C/350°F for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, basting every 30 minutes.
- Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 74°C/165°F.
- Allow the turkey to rest for 15-20 minutes before carving to keep the meat juicy.
- Use the pan juices to create a simple sauce for added flavor.