If you’re looking for a fuss-free yet festive main course, this easy roast turkey breast with garlic herb butter is the answer. Perfect for small holiday gatherings, Sunday dinners, or even weeknight celebrations, this recipe delivers tender, juicy meat with golden, crispy skin—all in under two hours. No brining, no basting, and no stress—just simple ingredients and straightforward steps that guarantee delicious results every time.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Roast Turkey Breast
This roast turkey breast is more than just a scaled-down version of a holiday classic—it’s a practical, flavorful solution for modern home cooks. Whether you’re feeding a family of four or hosting an intimate Friendsgiving, this dish cuts down on prep time while maximizing taste. The garlic herb butter keeps the meat moist from the inside out, and the bone-in cut ensures rich flavor and succulence. Plus, it pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or your favorite stuffing. Best of all? Leftovers turn into next-day sandwiches, salads, or casseroles with ease!
Ingredients for Roast Turkey Breast
This recipe relies on just seven simple, fresh ingredients—most of which you likely already have in your kitchen. The magic lies in how they work together to create a savory, aromatic crust that locks in moisture.
Garlic Herb Butter Mixture
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened at room temperature
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh rosemary
- 2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh thyme
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Main Protein
- 1 (6½-pound) whole bone-in turkey breast
Ingredient Notes
- Butter substitute (dairy-free): Replace with 3–4 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil or a plant-based butter. Mix the herbs and garlic directly into the oil before applying.
- Fresh herbs: If you don’t have rosemary or thyme, try sage, oregano, or marjoram—but stick to fresh over dried for the best flavor and texture under the skin.
- Turkey size: This recipe is written for a 6½-pound bone-in breast, but it works for any size from 3 to 8 pounds. Adjust roasting time using the internal temperature (160°F) as your guide, not the clock.
- Kosher salt: Avoid table salt—it’s more concentrated and can make the turkey overly salty. Stick to kosher or sea salt for balanced seasoning.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps for a perfectly roasted turkey breast with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Step 1 – Make the Garlic Herb Butter
In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir until fully blended into a smooth, fragrant paste. Set aside while you prep the turkey.
Step 2 – Prepare and Season the Turkey Breast
Remove the turkey breast from its packaging and pat it completely dry with paper towels—dry skin = crispier results. Gently slide your fingers under the skin on both sides of the breast to loosen it without tearing. Carefully spread half of the herb butter directly onto the meat beneath the skin. Then smooth the skin back down and spread the remaining butter evenly over the top. This double layer ensures flavor and moisture throughout.
Place the seasoned turkey breast in a 9×13-inch baking dish (no roasting rack needed). Let it sit at room temperature for 30–45 minutes before roasting—this helps it cook more evenly.
Step 3 – Roast and Rest
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Roast the turkey breast uncovered for 1½ to 2 hours, depending on its weight. The turkey is done when an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast (avoiding bone) reads 160°F (71°C). The skin should be golden brown and slightly crispy.
Remove from the oven and tent loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for 15 minutes. During this time, the internal temperature will rise to the safe 165°F (74°C) due to carryover cooking—while the juices redistribute for maximum tenderness.
Once rested, slice the meat away from the bone, then cut crosswise into ½-inch slices. Arrange on a platter and garnish with fresh herb sprigs for a beautiful presentation.
Pro Tips for Success
- Don’t skip the resting time. Resting is non-negotiable—it transforms a dry breast into a juicy masterpiece.
- Use a meat thermometer. Oven temperatures vary, and turkey size affects timing. Trust the thermometer, not the clock.
- Dry the skin thoroughly. Moisture is the enemy of crispy skin. Pat the turkey dry before seasoning.
- Prep ahead. You can season the turkey the night before and refrigerate it uncovered. Bring to room temp before roasting.
- Golden skin not browning? If the turkey hits 160°F but the skin isn’t golden, broil on low for 1–2 minutes—watch closely to avoid burning.
- Save the drippings. Even a small turkey breast produces flavorful juices—use them to make a quick pan gravy!
Flavor Variations
Customize your roast turkey breast with these easy twists:
- Citrus Herb: Add 1 teaspoon each of lemon zest and orange zest to the herb butter for a bright, aromatic profile.
- Honey Mustard: Mix 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard and 1 tablespoon honey into the butter, plus a pinch of smoked paprika.
- Truffle & Thyme: Stir 1 teaspoon truffle oil (or 1 tablespoon chopped truffle butter) into the herb mix for an umami-rich upgrade.
- Sage & Garlic: Replace rosemary with 1 tablespoon fresh sage for a more autumnal flavor.
- Spicy Herb: Add ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes to the butter for subtle heat.
Serving Suggestions
This roast turkey breast shines alongside classic comfort sides:
- Creamy mashed potatoes or garlic mashed cauliflower
- Homemade turkey gravy (made with the pan drippings!)
- Roasted Brussels sprouts or honey-glazed carrots
- Wild rice pilaf or herb stuffing
- Cranberry sauce or apple chutney
For a lighter meal, serve sliced turkey over a kale and quinoa salad with dried cranberries and toasted pecans.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap portions tightly in foil or place in freezer bags for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: For best texture, reheat in a 325°F oven with a splash of broth, covered with foil, for 15–20 minutes. Microwave in 30-second intervals if short on time—add a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
Easy Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic Herb Butter
- Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings
Description
A fuss-free, flavorful roast turkey breast coated in rich garlic herb butter for tender, juicy meat and perfectly golden skin.
Ingredients
- 1 (6½-pound) whole bone-in turkey breast
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh rosemary
- 2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh thyme
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Combine softened butter, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper in a small bowl and mix until smooth.
- Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. Loosen the skin gently with your fingers.
- Spread half of the garlic herb butter under the skin and the remaining butter over the top.
- Place the turkey breast into a 9×13-inch baking dish and let it rest at room temperature for 30–45 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Roast uncovered for 1½ to 2 hours until the thickest part reaches 160°F.
- Remove from oven and tent with foil. Rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
- Slice away from the bone, cut into ½-inch slices, and serve.
Notes
Let the turkey rest after roasting for maximum juiciness. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy and save the drippings for a quick gravy.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount (per 6 oz serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 |
| Protein | 58g |
| Carbohydrates | 1g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Sodium | 320mg |
Note: Values are estimates and may vary based on exact ingredients and portion size.
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FAQ About Roast Turkey Breast
Can I use a boneless turkey breast?
Yes! A boneless, skin-on turkey breast works well—just reduce the cooking time (start checking at 60 minutes). Keep an eye on the internal temperature, and consider tying it with kitchen twine for even shape.
Do I need to brine the turkey?
No brining is needed. The garlic herb butter provides enough moisture and flavor to keep the meat juicy. The recipe is designed to be simple and effective without extra steps.
What if my turkey skin isn’t crispy?
Ensure the skin is completely dry before roasting. If it’s still pale at 160°F, finish under the broiler for 1–2 minutes—but watch it constantly to prevent burning.
Can I make gravy from the drippings?
Absolutely! Even a small turkey breast yields flavorful pan juices. Deglaze the baking dish with 1–2 cups of turkey or chicken broth, whisk in a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water), and simmer until thickened.
How long does it take for the turkey to reach room temperature?
A 6½-pound turkey breast takes about 45–60 minutes at room temperature. Never leave poultry out for more than 2 hours for food safety.
Final Thoughts
This easy roast turkey breast with garlic herb butter proves that holiday-worthy meals don’t have to be complicated. With minimal ingredients, no brining, and under two hours of hands-off cooking, it’s a reliable recipe that delivers on flavor, texture, and visual appeal. Whether it’s your Thanksgiving centerpiece or a cozy Sunday supper, this dish will earn rave reviews—and you’ll have energy left to enjoy the meal with your guests. For more inspiration, check out this Hearty Italian Sausage & White Bean Soup or explore more on Pinterest for your next meal idea!