Description
Herb-Crusted Turkey Breast
Ingredients:
2 lbs turkey breast
3 tbsp softened butter
1 tbsp fresh sage, chopped
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp garlic salt
1 tsp black pepper
Lemon wedges for garnish
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Rub butter, sage, paprika, garlic salt, and pepper over the turkey.
Bake for 45 minutes, basting halfway.
Rest for 5-10 minutes and serve with lemon wedges.
#SavorySageTurkey
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfectly cooked, flavorful turkey breast.
- Prepare the Turkey: Pat the 2 lb turkey breast completely dry with paper towels. This ensures the herb butter will stick and promotes browning.
- Make the Herb Butter: In a small bowl, thoroughly combine the 3 tbsp of softened butter, 1 tbsp chopped fresh sage, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp garlic salt, and 1 tsp black pepper until a uniform paste forms.
- Season Under the Skin: Gently loosen the skin from the turkey breast by sliding your fingers underneath it. Spread about two-thirds of the herb butter directly onto the meat under the skin. Smooth the skin back into place.
- Coat the Exterior: Rub the remaining herb butter all over the outside of the turkey skin. For extra flavor, you can place a few extra sage leaves under the skin.
- Roast: Place the turkey breast on a rack in a roasting pan. Roast in the preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 45-55 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165°F (74°C). Baste with pan juices halfway through cooking.
- Rest and Serve: Transfer the turkey to a cutting board, tent loosely with foil, and let it rest for 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute. Slice and serve.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile turkey breast pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a classic holiday plate, serve it with garlic mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, and cranberry sauce. For a lighter meal, pair it with a crisp arugula salad and quinoa. The pan drippings make a fantastic base for a simple gravy. Don’t forget the lemon wedges for a bright, fresh squeeze over each slice.
How-to Summary
Dry the turkey, mix herb butter, season under and over the skin, roast at 375°F until 165°F internally, rest for 10 minutes, then slice and serve with lemon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried sage instead of fresh? Yes, but use only 1 teaspoon of dried rubbed sage, as dried herbs are more potent. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
What if I don’t have a roasting rack? Create a “rack” by layering thick slices of onion, celery, or carrots on the bottom of the pan. This lifts the turkey and adds flavor to the drippings.
How do I store leftovers? Store sliced turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The meat is excellent for sandwiches, salads, or soups.
Can I cook this from frozen? It is not recommended. For even cooking and food safety, always thaw the turkey breast completely in the refrigerator before applying the seasoning and roasting.
Can I use this method on a whole turkey? Absolutely. Simply multiply the herb butter recipe proportionally to cover the larger bird, and adjust the cooking time based on the weight.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Drying the Skin: A wet turkey skin will steam instead of crisp up. Pat it thoroughly dry.
- Skipping the Rest: Cutting into the turkey immediately will cause the flavorful juices to run out onto the cutting board, leaving the meat dry.
- Overcooking: Rely on a meat thermometer, not just time. Cooking past 165°F will result in dry, tough meat.
- Using Cold Butter: Softened butter mixes easily with the herbs and spreads smoothly under the skin without tearing it.
Conclusion
This Herb-Crusted Turkey Breast recipe is a guaranteed way to deliver a stunning, flavorful centerpiece with minimal effort. By following the step-by-step guide, particularly seasoning under the skin and allowing for a proper rest, you ensure a juicy, aromatic result every time. It’s a versatile dish perfect for both festive occasions and impressive weeknight dinners. Enjoy your #SavorySageTurkey!
