Garlic Herb Butter Roasted Turkey Breast

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dish that’s easy enough to whip up on a busy weeknight yet impressive enough for family gatherings, you’ve come to the right place! This Garlic Herb Butter Roasted Turkey Breast is a personal favorite of mine. The combination of garlic and fresh herbs melds beautifully with the turkey, resulting in a juicy and flavorful main course that everyone will love. Plus, it’s perfect for any occasion—from cozy Sunday dinners to festive holidays.

What makes this recipe truly special is the way the garlic herb butter seeps under the skin and bastes the turkey as it roasts. The result? A golden-brown exterior with a melt-in-your-mouth tender interior. You’ll want to have this recipe on hand all year round!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: With just a few easy steps, you can create a mouthwatering dish without spending all day in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: This turkey breast is sure to please even the pickiest eaters around your dinner table.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare everything in advance, making it perfect for busy days or special occasions.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of garlic and fresh herbs creates an irresistible aroma and taste that fills your home.
• Versatile Dish: Great for holiday feasts or casual weeknight meals, this recipe fits any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Garlic Herb Butter Roasted Turkey Breast, you’ll find that the ingredients are simple and wholesome. Fresh herbs really elevate the flavor, but don’t worry if you only have dried ones on hand; I’ve got some tips for substitutions too! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Turkey

• 2.5 – 3 kg / 5-6 lb single turkey breast, skin on, bone in (not brined)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• Black pepper
• Small bunch of fresh herbs – 4 rosemary sprigs, 8 sprigs sage, 10 thyme sprigs
• 12 garlic cloves, smashed with side of knife

For the Garlic Herb Butter

• 150 g / 5 oz (10 tbsp) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/4 tsp table salt or 1 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 4 large garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp finely chopped sage, fresh
• 1 tbsp finely chopped rosemary, fresh
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves, fresh
• 1 tbsp finely chopped parsley leaves, fresh

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some variations to customize it to your taste:

• Swap the herbs: If you don’t have rosemary or sage, feel free to use your favorite herbs like oregano or basil instead!
• Add citrus: A squeeze of lemon or orange juice mixed into the butter adds a refreshing zing that complements the turkey perfectly.
• Try different fats: Instead of butter, you can use olive oil for a lighter option while still achieving great flavor.
• Stuff it up: Consider adding stuffing under the skin along with the garlic herb butter for an extra layer of deliciousness.

How to Make Garlic Herb Butter Roasted Turkey Breast

Step 1: Remove Fridge Chill

Take your turkey out of the fridge about 45 minutes before cooking. This helps ensure even cooking throughout. If it’s particularly warm where you are, letting it sit for just 30 minutes should do.

Step 2: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 200°C / 390°F. Position your rack in the lower middle so that there’s plenty of space for heat circulation—this will help achieve that perfect golden-brown skin.

Step 3: Prepare Garlic and Herbs

In a baking dish, place your smashed garlic cloves and fresh herb bunch. This creates a flavorful base that will infuse into your turkey as it roasts.

Step 4: Make Garlic Herb Butter

Mix together all the ingredients for the garlic herb butter until well combined. This mixture will not only add flavor but also help keep your turkey moist during cooking.

Step 5: Loosen Skin

Using an upside-down teaspoon, gently loosen the skin from the flesh of the turkey breast. This step is key because it allows you to smear that wonderful buttery goodness directly onto the meat.

Step 6: Smear Butter Under Skin

Using about two-thirds of your prepared butter mixture, smear it under the skin on the top half of the breast. Getting in there with your hands ensures an even distribution—trust me, it’s worth it!

Step 7: Turn Turkey Over

Carefully turn your turkey upside down and reserve about two tablespoons of butter for later use on top. Spread most of what’s left beneath—this helps keep everything juicy!

Step 8: Place Turkey in Pan

Position your turkey back in the pan on top of those lovely herbs with skin side up. Now spread any remaining butter on top gently; we want flavor without burning those precious herbs.

Step 9: Make Ahead Option

At this point, if you’re planning ahead, you can leave everything as is and refrigerate for up to 24 hours! Just remember to take it out about 45 minutes before roasting so it can come back to room temperature before going into the oven.

And there you have it! Follow these steps and you’ll be rewarded with an incredible Garlic Herb Butter Roasted Turkey Breast that’s sure to become a regular at your dining table!

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Herb Butter Roasted Turkey Breast

Cooking the perfect turkey breast is easier than you think! Here are some tips to ensure your Garlic Herb Butter Roasted Turkey Breast turns out beautifully every time.

• Use a meat thermometer – This is the best way to guarantee your turkey is cooked to perfection. Aim for an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F) in the thickest part of the breast for juicy and safe results.

• Let it rest – After roasting, let your turkey rest for at least 15-20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each slice tender and moist.

• Fresh herbs make a difference – While dried herbs can work in a pinch, fresh herbs offer vibrant flavors that elevate your dish. If fresh isn’t available, use about one-third of the amount of dried herbs, but remember, they won’t have quite the same impact!

• Don’t skip the butter under the skin – Smearing garlic herb butter directly under the skin not only enhances flavor but also helps keep the meat moist while roasting. The butter melts into the meat as it cooks, creating rich flavor throughout.

• Keep an eye on cooking time – Every oven is different! Start checking your turkey breast about 15 minutes before it’s supposed to be done to avoid overcooking, which can leave you with dry meat.

How to Serve Garlic Herb Butter Roasted Turkey Breast

Presenting your beautifully roasted turkey breast can be just as enjoyable as eating it! Here are some ideas to make your dish shine at the table.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs – A sprinkle of finely chopped parsley or extra thyme leaves adds a pop of color and freshness to your dish.
• Lemon wedges – Serving lemon wedges on the side not only looks appealing but also offers a zesty option for guests who enjoy a bright flavor contrast.
• Sliced garlic cloves – For those who love garlic, roasted garlic cloves can be served alongside for an extra touch of flavor!

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes infused with garlic make an excellent pairing with turkey and absorb all those delicious pan juices.
• Roasted Seasonal Vegetables – Toss seasonal veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and bell peppers in olive oil and roast them for a colorful side that complements the richness of the turkey.
• Quinoa Salad with Cranberries and Nuts – A light and refreshing salad filled with quinoa, dried cranberries, nuts, and a hint of citrus makes for a delightful contrast on your plate.
• Green Bean Almondine – Tender green beans sautéed with slivered almonds provide a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that balances well with the savory turkey.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re sure to impress everyone at your table! Enjoy every bite of this delicious Garlic Herb Butter Roasted Turkey Breast. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Garlic Herb Butter Roasted Turkey Breast is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious turkey without the last-minute rush. You can easily prepare it ahead of time, and it stores beautifully, making it a great option for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the turkey to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap leftover turkey breast tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place in an airtight container or a resealable bag.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Once cooled, slice the turkey breast for easier thawing later.
• Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 175°C / 350°F.
• Place the sliced turkey in a baking dish with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
• Cover with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

Got questions? Don’t worry; I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries about the Garlic Herb Butter Roasted Turkey Breast.

Can I make Garlic Herb Butter Roasted Turkey Breast ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the turkey breast and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before roasting. Just remember to take it out of the fridge about 45 minutes before cooking!

What can I serve with Garlic Herb Butter Roasted Turkey Breast?

This flavorful turkey pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Don’t forget to drizzle some of that delicious butter pan sauce over your sides!

How do I know when my Garlic Herb Butter Roasted Turkey Breast is done?

Using a meat thermometer is key! The internal temperature should reach 75°C / 165°F at the thickest part of the breast. This ensures it’s perfectly juicy and safe to eat.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Garlic Herb Butter Roasted Turkey Breast! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with delightful flavors and aromas that will warm your heart and home. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share this recipe with friends and family. Happy cooking!