Garlic herb butter roasted turkey breast garnished with herbs

Garlic Herb Butter Roasted Turkey Breast

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Garlic Herb Butter Roasted Turkey Breast is a showstopper that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any festive occasion. This recipe showcases the rich flavors of garlic and fresh herbs, resulting in a turkey breast that is moist on the inside and crispy on the outside. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply want to enjoy a delicious meal, making this turkey breast will surely impress everyone at the table.

How to Make Garlic Herb Butter Roasted Turkey Breast

Ingredients

  • 2.5 – 3 kg / 5-6 lb single turkey breast (skin on, bone in, NOT BRINED)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • Black pepper
  • Small bunch of fresh herbs:
    • 4 rosemary sprigs
    • 8 sprigs sage
    • 10 thyme sprigs
  • 12 garlic cloves (smashed with side of knife)
  • 150 g / 5 oz (10 tbsp) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/4 tsp table salt or 1 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 4 large garlic cloves (minced)
  • 1 tbsp finely chopped sage (fresh)
  • 1 tbsp finely chopped rosemary (fresh)
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (fresh)
  • 1 tbsp finely chopped parsley leaves (fresh)

Directions

  1. Remove fridge chill: Take the turkey out of the fridge 45 minutes before cooking (or 30 minutes if it’s hot outside).
  2. Preheat oven: Set the oven to 200C / 390F. Place the rack in the lower middle position.
  3. Prepare garlic and herbs: Place the smashed garlic and bunch of herbs in the middle of a baking dish.
  4. Make the butter mixture: Mix the softened butter with the salt, black pepper, minced garlic, chopped sage, rosemary, thyme, and parsley.
  5. Loosen the skin: Use a teaspoon to gently loosen the skin from the turkey breast, starting from the edge.
  6. Smear butter: Use about 2/3 of the herb butter and smear it under the skin on the top half of the breast. Use your hands for even distribution.
  7. Turn turkey upside down: Reserve about 2 tbsp of butter for the surface. Smear the remaining butter on the underside of the turkey.
  8. Place turkey in the pan: Put the turkey in the pan on top of the herbs, skin side up. Smear the skin with the reserved butter, but keep it light to prevent burning.
  9. Make ahead option: You can stop at this point and refrigerate the turkey for up to 24 hours. Remove it from the fridge 45 minutes before serving and continue roasting.
  10. Roasting: Roast the turkey in the preheated oven until cooked through and golden brown.

How to Serve Garlic Herb Butter Roasted Turkey Breast

Serve the Garlic Herb Butter Roasted Turkey Breast sliced, with the garlic and herbs from the baking dish drizzled over the meat. This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

How to Store Garlic Herb Butter Roasted Turkey Breast

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the turkey for longer storage. Just make sure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Tips to Make Garlic Herb Butter Roasted Turkey Breast

  • Ensure the turkey is not brined to allow the flavors of the herbs and garlic to shine through.
  • Let the turkey sit at room temperature before roasting for even cooking.
  • Basting the turkey with its own drippings during roasting can enhance its moisture and flavor.

Variation

You can experiment with different herbs, like adding thyme or even using dried herbs if fresh ones are unavailable. Additionally, citrus zest can be mixed into the butter for a bright, tangy flavor.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a frozen turkey?
A: Yes, but make sure to fully thaw it in the refrigerator before cooking for even cooking.

Q: How can I tell when the turkey is done?
A: The internal temperature should reach 75C / 165F when measured in the thickest part of the breast.

Q: Can I make this recipe without garlic?
A: You can omit the garlic if you prefer, but it will change the flavor profile of the dish. Consider using other aromatic ingredients instead.