This herb-roasted turkey breast recipe combines fragrant garlic and fresh sage for a classic and easy main dish.
Roasting the turkey breast with herbs locks in moisture and enhances the flavor, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or small gathering.
The recipe guides you to a juicy turkey breast cooked safely to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Using fresh herbs like sage and garlic delivers bold, savory flavors that complement turkey perfectly.
- Roasting the turkey at a moderate temperature ensures tender, moist meat with a golden-brown crust.
- A simple herb butter rub under the skin adds flavor and keeps the meat juicy.
- Including explicit food-safe cooking temperatures guarantees the turkey is safe and delicious.
Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast with Garlic and Sage
Savor a juicy herb-roasted turkey breast infused with garlic and sage. Perfectly seasoned and oven-roasted for an easy, flavorful weeknight meal.
- Prep time
- 15 minutes
- Cook time
- 60 minutes
- Servings
- 6
- Yield
- 1 roasted turkey breast, approximately 3 pounds (1.4 kg)
Ingredients
- 3 lb (1.4 kg) turkey breast, bone-in and skin-on
- 3 tbsp (45 ml) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) fresh sage, finely chopped
- 1 tsp (5 ml) fresh thyme leaves
- 1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) salt
- 1/4 tsp (1.25 ml) ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Herb Butter In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, chopped sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well until blended.
- Preheat the Oven and Prep Turkey Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. Gently loosen the skin from the meat without tearing.
- Apply Herb Butter and Roast Spread the herb butter evenly under the skin of the turkey breast and on top of the skin. Drizzle olive oil over the surface. Place the turkey breast on a rack in a roasting pan, skin side up.
- Roast and Monitor Temperature Roast in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) measured at the thickest part of the breast with a meat thermometer.
- Rest the Turkey Remove the turkey breast from the oven and tent loosely with foil. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.
Helpful Tips
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey reaches the safe cooking temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Resting the turkey after roasting makes it juicier and easier to carve.
- Allergen note: This recipe contains dairy (butter) and garlic; adjust if you have allergies.
- For extra flavor, add a few sprigs of fresh sage and thyme to the roasting pan during cooking.
Storage and Make-Ahead
Refrigerate leftover turkey breast in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking.
Consume refrigerated leftovers within 3-4 days.
Reheat leftover turkey to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless turkey breast for this recipe?
Yes, you can use boneless turkey breast. Reduce cooking time and monitor internal temperature to reach 165°F (74°C).
How do I prevent the turkey breast from drying out?
Applying herb butter under the skin and roasting at 350°F helps keep the meat moist. Also, resting the meat before slicing retains juices.
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