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Butter-Basted Turkey Breast

Butter-Basted Turkey Breast

Butter-Basted Turkey Breast

By recipes genie | Published on December 29, 2024

Tools & Equipment

1
Oven
2
Roasting Pan
3
Small bowl
4
Paper towels
5
Cutting board
6
Meat thermometer
7
Carving knife
8
Measuring spoons
9
Measuring cup

Ingredients

Protein

  • 1
    3 pounds bone-in turkey breast

Dairy

  • 1
    0.5 cup unsalted butter

Herbs & Spices

  • 1
    2 sprigs fresh thyme sprigs
  • 2
    2 sprigs fresh rosemary sprigs
  • 3
    2 cloves garlic cloves
  • 4
    1 teaspoon salt
  • 5
    0.5 teaspoon black pepper

Oils

  • 1
    1 tablespoon olive oil

Directions

1

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Make sure the rack is in the center position. This ensures even cooking.

2

Dry the Turkey Breast

Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. This will help achieve a crispy skin. A dry surface allows for better browning.

3

Mince Garlic

Mince the garlic cloves. Mincing releases the garlic's flavor. If you don't have a garlic press, finely chop with a knife.

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4

Mix Seasonings

In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a seasoning blend. This ensures even distribution of flavor.

5

Oil the Turkey Breast

Rub the turkey breast with the olive oil. This will help the seasoning adhere to the surface.

6

Season the Turkey

Generously rub the seasoning mixture all over the turkey breast, ensuring it's evenly coated. Massage the seasoning into the skin for maximum flavor penetration.

7

Prepare the Roasting Pan

Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan. If you don't have a roasting pan, a baking dish will work as well. Add 1/2 cup of water to the bottom of the roasting pan. This will help to create steam during cooking.

8

Melt the Butter

Place the butter in a small, microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 15 to 20 seconds or until just melted. Be careful, melted butter can be hot.

9

Add Herbs to the Pan

Place the thyme and rosemary sprigs inside the roasting pan alongside the turkey breast. This will infuse the turkey with a delicate herby aroma.

10

Initial Basting

Pour half of the melted butter over the turkey breast. This will begin the basting process. Basting keeps the turkey moist and adds flavor.

11

Initial Baking

Transfer the roasting pan to the preheated oven. Cook for 1 hour. Use an oven mitt when placing the pan into the oven to prevent burns.

12

Second Basting

After one hour, remove the pan from the oven. Baste the turkey breast with the remaining melted butter. Basting is the process of spooning pan juices or melted butter over the meat to keep it moist.

13

Final Baking

Return the turkey breast to the oven and continue baking for another 30-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to accurately measure the temperature, inserting into the thickest part of the breast, avoiding the bone. A meat thermometer is crucial for safe cooking.

14

Rest the Turkey

Remove the turkey breast from the oven and transfer it to a cutting board. Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful turkey.

15

Carve and Serve

Carve the turkey breast into slices and serve hot. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture. Use a carving knife for clean, even slices.

Recipe Tips

  • For extra flavor, consider adding a quartered onion and a few carrots to the bottom of the roasting pan.
  • If the skin starts to brown too quickly, loosely tent the turkey breast with aluminum foil.
  • Make sure to check the internal temperature of the turkey in multiple places to ensure it's cooked evenly.
  • Use leftover turkey in sandwiches, salads, or soups.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories

350 kcal

Carbs

2g

Protein

40g

Fat

20g

Fiber

0g

Sugar

0g

Sat. Fat

10g

Sodium

500mg

Trans Fat

0g

Cholesterol

150mg

Potassium

300mg

Vitamin A

200%

Vitamin C

5%

Calcium

20%

Iron

2%

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