Herbed Garlic Butter Roast Turkey Breast Recipe

If you’re craving a juicy, flavorful roast turkey breast without the fuss of an entire bird, this Herbed Garlic Butter Roast Turkey Breast Recipe is exactly what you need. I absolutely love how this recipe combines fresh herbs and rich garlic butter to keep the turkey incredibly moist and bursting with taste. Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or a special holiday meal, you’ll find that this method is straightforward, reliable, and produces a golden-brown, tender turkey that everyone will rave about. Stick around—I’ll share all my best tips to help you nail it perfectly!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients work beautifully to bring out the best in your turkey breast. Fresh herbs combined with garlic and butter create that classic roast turkey aroma and flavor without overshadowing the bird’s natural taste. When shopping, pick fresh rosemary and thyme if possible—they really elevate this simple dish.

• Whole bone-in turkey breast: Look for a plump, fresh turkey breast—bone-in gives richer flavor and helps keep it moist.
• Unsalted butter: Softened at room temperature so it’s easy to mix with herbs and spread under the skin.
• Garlic cloves: Freshly minced for maximum flavor punch—skip pre-minced for best aroma.
• Fresh rosemary: Finely chopped to evenly distribute its piney, citrusy notes.
• Fresh thyme: Adds earthiness and depth; fresh always beats dried here.
• Kosher salt: Perfect for seasoning without being too overpowering; it also helps draw out the herbs’ flavors.
• Freshly ground black pepper: For a slight kick—grind fresh if you can for best taste.

Variations

This recipe is pretty straightforward, but I often like to switch things up depending on the season or what I have on hand—playing around with herbs or adding a hint of citrus really makes it my own. Feel free to experiment and make it your own!

• Lemon zest and juice: I add this sometimes to the butter mix for a bright, refreshing twist that pairs wonderfully with turkey.
• Paprika or smoked paprika: Adding a pinch gives a subtle smoky flavor and deepens the golden crust on the turkey skin.
• Dairy-free option: Swap out butter for olive oil mixed with the herbs if you want to avoid dairy—it’s still delicious.
• Spicier version: Mix in a little cayenne or chili flakes to give it a gentle heat, perfect for those who like some spice.

How to Make Herbed Garlic Butter Roast Turkey Breast Recipe

Step 1: Make the Herb Garlic Butter

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C)—I always find this lower and slower cooking temperature helps the turkey breast come out moist and perfectly cooked. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter with minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, kosher salt, and freshly ground pepper. Stir until it’s a luscious, aromatic spread. This flavorful butter is the secret to juicy turkey!

Step 2: Prep and Coat the Turkey Breast

Here’s where a little patience pays off. Gently slide your fingers under the skin to loosen it from the breast halves—this trick I learned the hard way helps avoid tearing the skin. Spread half of your garlic herb butter directly under the skin, massaging it so it covers every nook. Then smooth the skin back down, and spread the rest of the butter over the skin’s top. This double-layer butter coating seals in moisture and ensures golden, crispy skin. Place the turkey breast in a 9×13-inch baking dish ready for roasting.

Step 3: Roast to Perfection

Roast uncovered for about 1 ½ to 2 hours, keeping an eye on the skin color. You want it beautifully golden brown. Use an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast to check doneness—it should read 160°F (71°C). Pull it from the oven and let it rest, tented with foil, for 15 minutes. This resting step is crucial as the temperature will rise to about 165°F (74°C), locking in those flavorful juices.

Step 4: Slice and Serve

Once rested, slice the turkey away from the breastbone, then crosswise on a cutting board. The meat should be tender, juicy, and infused with that fragrant herb garlic butter goodness. Serve immediately with your favorite sides and enjoy!

How to Serve Herbed Garlic Butter Roast Turkey Breast Recipe

Garnishes

I love finishing this roast turkey breast with some fresh sprigs of rosemary and a sprinkle of chopped parsley—it adds color and a burst of fresh herbal aroma. A few lemon wedges on the side brighten up every plate and bring a zesty contrast to the rich buttered turkey.

Side Dishes

My go-to sides with this herbed garlic butter roast turkey breast are creamy mashed potatoes, garlic roasted green beans, and a simple cranberry sauce for balance. I also love serving it with warm dinner rolls or a buttery cornbread for soaking up all those flavorful drippings.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve arranged the sliced turkey breast on a large platter surrounded by roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and colorful bell peppers. Adding edible flowers or fresh herbs around the edges really makes the centerpiece pop. It’s a simple touch that guests always comment on!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After letting the turkey cool completely, I wrap any leftovers tightly in foil or store them in airtight containers in the fridge. It keeps beautifully for up to 3-4 days, which is perfect for quick lunches or sandwiches the next day.

Freezing

I’ve happily frozen sliced turkey breast before, wrapped well in plastic wrap then foil. When thawed overnight in the fridge, it reheats well without drying out, especially with a little added moisture like broth or gravy.

Reheating

To reheat, I cover the turkey slices with foil and warm gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 15-20 minutes, occasionally basting with drippings or broth to keep it juicy. Microwave works in a pinch, but be cautious to avoid dryness by reheating in short bursts.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Herbed Garlic Butter Roast Turkey Breast Recipe holds a special place in my heart because it combines simplicity with incredible flavor. I remember the first time I tried it, and how my family kept going back for seconds without hesitation! It’s approachable enough to make any day feel celebratory and versatile enough to fit any occasion. I can’t wait for you to try it—it’s like having that perfect roast turkey moment, without the fuss. Trust me, once you’ve tasted this, it’ll become your go-to turkey breast recipe too.

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