Herb Roasted Turkey Breast with Garlic Butter (classic)
Printed from Inclusive Kitchen — Herb Roasted Turkey Breast with Garlic Butter
Herb Roasted Turkey Breast with Garlic Butter is a dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. This classic preparation highlights the turkey's natural flavors, enhanced by a fragrant blend of fresh herbs and rich garlic butter. The result is a beautifully golden-brown turkey breast that is juicy on the inside and crisp on the outside, making it a centerpiece worthy of any holiday feast or family gathering.
Historically, turkey has been a staple in American cuisine, especially during Thanksgiving. However, this dish can be enjoyed year-round, whether for a special occasion or a cozy Sunday dinner. The garlic butter not only adds a depth of flavor but also helps to keep the turkey moist during roasting. And let’s be honest, who can resist the aroma of garlic wafting through the kitchen? It’s practically a culinary hug.
To prepare this dish, you’ll need a few key ingredients and some simple equipment. A roasting pan is essential for even cooking, while a meat thermometer will ensure your turkey reaches the perfect doneness without drying out. As you roast, the herbs will infuse the turkey with their aromatic qualities, creating a dish that is as delightful to the nose as it is to the palate. Just remember, if you have leftovers, turkey sandwiches are a delicious way to extend the joy of this meal—just don’t let the turkey get too comfortable in the fridge!
So roll up your sleeves and get ready to impress your family and friends with this Herb Roasted Turkey Breast. It’s a dish that combines tradition with a touch of flair, ensuring that every bite is filled with flavor and love. After all, cooking is about bringing people together, and nothing says ‘togetherness’ quite like a beautifully roasted turkey. Just be prepared for the inevitable question: ‘Is there any more turkey left?’
Ingredients
- 4 pounds turkey breast
- 1 stick unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme
- 2 tablespoons fresh sage
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is ideal for roasting turkey, allowing it to cook evenly without drying out.
- In a small saucepan over low heat, melt 1 stick of unsalted butter. Add 4 minced garlic cloves and cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes. This garlic butter will be the star of the show!
- In a mixing bowl, combine 2 tablespoons each of chopped fresh rosemary, thyme, and sage. Add 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of black pepper to the herbs. This blend will infuse the turkey with a wonderful aroma.
- Pat the 4-pound turkey breast dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up nicely during roasting.
- Rub the herb mixture all over the turkey breast, ensuring it gets into all the nooks and crannies. This step is crucial for flavor; you want every bite to be herbaceous.
- Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the turkey breast and rub it in. This will help the skin brown beautifully.
- Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan, skin side up. Pour the melted garlic butter over the turkey, making sure to cover it generously.
- Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the turkey breast, avoiding the bone. Roast in the preheated oven for about 90 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Baste the turkey with the pan juices every 30 minutes. This keeps the meat moist and enhances the flavor.
- Once the turkey reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 15 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy turkey.
- Carve the turkey breast and serve it with your favorite sides. The crispy skin and tender meat will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be used for sandwiches or salads, but let’s be real, turkey sandwiches are the best!
Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: 350
- Carbs g: 0
- Protein g: 50
- Fat g: 15
- Sugar g: 0
