Herb-Butter Roasted Turkey Breast Recipe

If you’re looking for a simple but show-stopping way to make turkey breast shine, this Herb-Butter Roasted Turkey Breast Recipe is exactly what you need. I absolutely love how this recipe locks in juicy, tender meat with that irresistibly fragrant herb butter crust. Whether it’s for a special dinner or a cozy family meal, this roast turkey breast will quickly become your go-to because it’s downright delicious and not complicated at all.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses classic fresh herbs and good-quality butter that work beautifully to amplify the turkey’s natural flavor. When shopping, I always look for fresh rosemary, thyme, and sage because their aromas really elevate the dish. And of course, unsalted butter lets you control the salt levels perfectly.

• Turkey Breast: Bone-in gives the best flavor and moisture, but boneless works well too if you’re short on time.
• Unsalted Butter: Softened to make mixing and spreading with herbs easier and smoother.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds a subtle pungency that complements the herbs perfectly.
• Fresh Thyme: Fresh is key here—dried thyme doesn’t provide the same brightness.
• Fresh Rosemary: Chopped finely to distribute its piney flavor evenly throughout.
• Fresh Sage: Adds an earthy depth that pairs beautifully with roasted turkey.
• Salt & Pepper: Basic seasoning to bring out flavors and balance richness.

Variations

I love encouraging you to make this Herb-Butter Roasted Turkey Breast Recipe your own. Over time, I’ve played around a bit and found some fun tweaks to suit different taste buds or dietary preferences—so don’t be afraid to customize!

• Herb Swaps: I sometimes replace sage with fresh oregano or tarragon for a slightly different herbal bouquet.
• Spicy Kick: Adding a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika to the herb butter gives a lovely warmth without overpowering the herbs.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut oil or a high-quality plant-based butter alternative—just make sure it’s soft enough to spread under the skin.
• Stuffed Variation: I once stuffed the turkey breast with sautéed mushrooms and herbs before roasting, and it was a huge hit for a special dinner.

How to Make Herb-Butter Roasted Turkey Breast Recipe

Step 1: Bring the Turkey to Room Temperature

After thawing your turkey breast (a full 24 hours per 5 pounds if frozen), I like to pull it out of the fridge about 20 minutes before cooking. This little step helps the meat cook more evenly. Just pat it dry with paper towels to get a nice surface for the herb butter to stick to—moisture is the enemy of crisp skin!

Step 2: Prepare the Herb Butter

Mix your softened butter with freshly minced garlic, chopped thyme, rosemary, sage, salt, and pepper until you get a fragrant, spreadable paste. I always try to chop herbs small so every bite has consistent flavor. This herb butter is the real star, so don’t skimp!

Step 3: Spread Herb Butter Under the Skin and Over the Turkey

This is the key trick I discovered that transforms a good roast into a great one: gently loosen the skin of the turkey breast without tearing it, then carefully smear a generous spoonful of herb butter beneath. It helps keep the breast juicy from the inside out. Then smear the remaining herb butter on the surface for that gorgeous golden crust and extra flavor burst.

Step 4: Roast Low and Slow

Place your turkey breast on a baking sheet and roast in a 325°F (163°C) oven. Plan for about 14-15 minutes per pound. The best way to check doneness is with an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast—it should read just under 165°F, because the turkey will carryover cook as it rests.

Step 5: Rest Before Carving

Once out of the oven, tent your turkey loosely with foil and let it rest at least 15 minutes. I can’t stress this enough—it lets the juices redistribute so your slices won’t dry out. Trust me, it makes all the difference.

How to Serve Herb-Butter Roasted Turkey Breast Recipe

Garnishes

I love finishing this turkey breast with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary right before serving for extra aroma and a pop of color. A few lemon wedges on the side add a bright zing that cuts through the richness beautifully.

Side Dishes

My family goes crazy for pairing this roast with classic mashed potatoes or rosemary roasted carrots. I also often whip up a fresh green salad or some buttery dinner rolls to soak up every bit of that herb butter goodness.

Creative Ways to Present

When I’ve had guests over, I like to slice the turkey breast à la minute and arrange the slices on a platter decorated with herbs and edible flowers. It looks stunning and makes everyone feel like it’s a special occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After the meal, I wrap leftover turkey tightly in foil or put it in an airtight container and store it in the fridge. It keeps well for about 3-4 days, perfect for sandwiches or salads the next day.

Freezing

I’ve also frozen sliced turkey breast before with great results. Just package it tightly in freezer bags and use within 2 months for the best flavor and texture. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To keep that juicy texture when reheating, I pop the slices in a covered dish with a splash of broth or water and warm them gently in the oven at 300°F until heated through. It’s much better than the microwave, which can dry the meat out.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Herb-Butter Roasted Turkey Breast Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen because it transforms a humble cut into something truly memorable. I used to struggle with dry turkey, but this easy approach keeps it juicy, flavorful, and beautifully golden every single time. If you want a recipe that’s straightforward but impressive enough for company, you’re going to love this one as much as I do. Give it a try, and I promise it’ll become your weeknight or holiday go-to!

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