Herbed Garlic Butter Roast Turkey Breast Recipe

If you’re craving a turkey breast that’s bursting with flavor but moist and tender every single time, you’ve got to try this Herbed Garlic Butter Roast Turkey Breast Recipe. I absolutely love how the garlic butter seeps under the skin, turning the meat juicy and golden brown—it’s honestly my go-to for any family dinner or special occasion. Stick around, and I’ll walk you through all my favorite tips and tricks so your turkey turns out perfect too!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together in a way that feels both classic and fresh, showcasing the turkey while infusing it with flavor. Fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme really elevate the dish, so if you can grab them fresh, it’s worth it.

• Whole bone-in turkey breast: Choose one around 6 ½ pounds for the best size; bone-in keeps it juicy and flavorful.
• Unsalted butter: Softened to room temperature, so it blends easily with the herbs and garlic.
• Garlic cloves: Minced finely to evenly distribute that classic punch of garlic flavor.
• Fresh rosemary: Finely chopped to bring a woodsy aroma and flavor that complements turkey beautifully.
• Fresh thyme: Also finely chopped; thyme adds a subtle earthy tone that balances the richness.
• Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning; it enhances all these flavors perfectly.
• Freshly ground black pepper: A little heat and sharpness to keep things interesting.

Variations

I like to keep this recipe pretty classic since the flavors are so harmonious, but that doesn’t mean you can’t play around! Sometimes I’ll add a hint of lemon zest to the butter mix for a subtle brightness or swap in sage for thyme for a slightly earthier taste. Go ahead and make it your own.

• Lemon Herb Butter: Adding lemon zest gives the turkey a bright, fresh note that I fell in love with during a summer dinner party.
• Sage Swap: Trying fresh sage instead of thyme adds an herbal depth, perfect for a cozy fall meal.
• Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle smoked paprika or cayenne into your butter mixture.
• Low Sodium: Use unsalted butter and reduce salt to control sodium intake—just boost herbs to keep flavor up.

How to Make Herbed Garlic Butter Roast Turkey Breast Recipe

Step 1: Whip Up the Herbed Garlic Butter

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with minced garlic, finely chopped rosemary, thyme, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. I always give it a good stir until everything is evenly combined—the smell alone is so inviting!

Step 2: Spread the Magic Under the Skin

This part feels a little daring at first, but it’s key to juicy turkey. Gently ease your fingers between the turkey skin and meat on both sides to loosen it, being careful not to tear it. Then spread half the herbed butter mixture under the skin—smearing it as evenly as possible all over the breast. Smooth the skin back down, and spread the remaining butter evenly on top. This layering creates that golden, flavorful crust everyone loves.

Step 3: Roast and Relax

Place your turkey breast in a 9×13-inch baking dish, uncovered, and roast for 1 ½ to 2 hours. Use an instant-read thermometer to check—the turkey is done when it hits 160°F (71°C) in the thickest part. This usually means the skin is perfectly golden and crispy. Then, here’s a trick I learned: tent the turkey with foil and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing. The temperature will rise to 165°F (74°C) and the juices will redistribute, meaning the meat stays super moist.

Step 4: Slice and Serve

Use a sharp knife to slice the turkey breast away from the bone, then slice across the grain into even pieces. The texture should be tender but firm, with that herby, buttery coating shining through. Serve it up with your favorite sides—you’re in for a real treat!

How to Serve Herbed Garlic Butter Roast Turkey Breast Recipe

Garnishes

I usually garnish my turkey breast with a sprinkle of fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs—it adds a lovely fresh fragrance and looks so pretty on the plate. Sometimes, I add a few roasted garlic cloves on the side for extra flavor, which guests always appreciate.

Side Dishes

My family goes crazy for this turkey paired with garlic mashed potatoes, honey-glazed carrots, and a crisp green salad. Roasted Brussels sprouts tossed with balsamic vinegar are another favorite. Honestly, this turkey is a blank canvas, so any classic sides you love will shine here.

Creative Ways to Present

When I want to make a dinner extra special, I slice the turkey breast and fan it out on a large platter with fresh herb sprigs and lemon wedges. For holiday meals, placing the turkey alongside a stuffing-stuffed hollowed bread bowl adds an impressive touch. It’s amazing how a little flair can make you feel like a five-star chef.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I always wrap leftover turkey tightly in foil or store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays delicious for up to 3-4 days. For quick weeknight meals, I love shredding leftovers and adding them to sandwiches or salads.

Freezing

If you want to prep ahead, you can freeze cooked turkey breast slices in heavy-duty freezer bags with the cooking juices to prevent drying out. In my experience, freezing works great for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To keep the turkey moist when reheating, I cover it with foil and warm it gently in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes. Adding a splash of broth inside the covered pan helps maintain juiciness. Microwaving works in a pinch, but be careful not to dry the meat.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Herbed Garlic Butter Roast Turkey Breast Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. I love how simple ingredients come together to create something that’s not only delicious but also reliable and easy enough for busy weeknights or elegant enough for holidays. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen, just like it has in mine. So go ahead, grab those fresh herbs and garlic butter, and make some magic in your oven—you’ll thank yourself later!

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