The scent of roasted turkey drifting through the kitchen always feels like Christmas has arrived early. The warmth of butter, herbs, and slow roasting fills the air while everyone hovers nearby, waiting for that first juicy slice. This roasted turkey recipe brings that same cozy magic to your own table — simple, aromatic, and incredibly satisfying.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Roasted Turkey Breast
This roasted turkey is perfect for any Christmas dinner or weekend feast. It’s quick to prepare, easy to carve, and gives you all the flavor of a full turkey without the stress. The herb butter melts right into the meat, keeping every bite tender and juicy. You’ll love the golden, crisp skin and the short prep time that leaves more room for holiday fun.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll only need a handful of fresh ingredients for this roasted turkey recipe. Butter keeps the meat moist and rich, while fresh herbs bring a garden-fresh aroma.
Key Ingredients:
- Unsalted butter: Softened butter makes the perfect base for the herb rub.
- Fresh rosemary, sage, and thyme: They add earthy, festive flavor.
- Kosher salt and black pepper: Simple but essential seasoning.
- Turkey breast (4–6 pounds): Perfect for six servings.
If you only have dried herbs, that’s fine too. Use one teaspoon each of rosemary and thyme, and three-fourths teaspoon of sage. If using salted butter, reduce added salt slightly.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Oven and Turkey
Preheat your oven to 325°F. Place your turkey breast in a roasting pan and pat it dry. This helps the skin crisp beautifully.
2. Make the Herb Butter
Mash softened butter with chopped herbs, salt, and pepper until smooth. Save a few tablespoons for the final step.
3. Apply Butter Under and Over the Skin
Gently lift the turkey skin with your fingers. Spread half the herb butter under the skin, then coat the outside with the rest. This keeps the meat moist and flavorful.
4. Roast to Golden Perfection
Roast for about 90 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. If the top browns too quickly, lightly cover it with foil.
5. Rest and Serve
Spread the reserved butter on top while the turkey rests for 20 minutes. This locks in the juices and adds shine. Slice and serve warm.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your roasted turkey with comforting sides like mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, or candied sweet potatoes. For something hearty, try creamy tomato ground beef orzo for a hearty side.
Leftovers? They make amazing turkey sandwiches or turkey zucchini enchilada casserole with leftovers.
For bread, serve with easy dinner roll recipe without yeast for quick holiday bread.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Don’t leave your roasted turkey out for more than two hours. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. You can also freeze portions for up to three months — just let them cool first.
To reheat, warm in the oven at 300°F until hot. Add a pat of butter or splash of broth to keep it moist.
Slow Cooker Option
If you’re short on oven space, this method works like a charm. Prepare the turkey the same way, then place it in the slow cooker skin side up. Cook on low for 5–6 hours until it reaches 165°F. For crispy skin, broil briefly at the end.
This option saves time and effort, especially on busy holiday mornings.
Tips for the Perfect Roast
- Always use softened butter for easy spreading.
- Cover loosely with foil if the turkey browns too quickly.
- Let it rest before slicing so the juices stay inside.
- For a larger turkey (8 pounds), double the butter and herbs.
- For a Southern-style feast, serve with potato salad recipe southern style for a classic holiday side or chicken biscuits and gravy recipe for Southern-style comfort.
FAQs
How long does it take to roast a turkey?
A turkey breast (4–6 pounds) takes about 90 minutes at 325°F. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F before serving.
What is the secret to a moist turkey?
Butter and resting time. Butter under the skin keeps it juicy, and resting locks in all the moisture.
Is it better to cook turkey at 325 or 350?
325°F cooks the meat evenly and keeps it tender. Higher heat can dry it out.
Is it better to cook a turkey covered or uncovered?
Start uncovered to get that crisp golden skin. If it gets too dark, cover loosely with foil.
Roasted Turkey Breast Recipe Card
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Roasted Turkey Breast Recipe | Juicy & Amazing Flavor
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 6 1x
Description
Roasted turkey breast with buttery herbs and crisp skin. Simple prep, tender slices, and holiday flavor in every bite. Perfect for smaller gatherings and easy carving.
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 sprigs fresh rosemary
10 fresh sage leaves
1 tablespoon fresh thyme
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
1 turkey breast (4–6 pounds), patted dry
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 325°F and set rack to the bottom position.
2. Place turkey breast in large roasting pan; pat dry.
3. Mash butter with herbs, salt, and pepper. Set aside 2–3 tablespoons.
4. Gently lift skin from turkey and spread herb butter under and over skin.
5. Roast for 90 minutes or until internal temp reaches 165°F.
6. Top with reserved butter and rest 20 minutes before serving.
Notes
Use unsalted butter to control saltiness.
Butter should be softened about 1 hour at room temp.
To use dried herbs: 1 tsp each rosemary and thyme, and 3/4 tsp sage.
For added flavor: add 2–3 cloves grated garlic to the butter.
For an 8 lb turkey breast, double the butter and herbs.
No roasting rack required.
Cover loosely with foil if the skin darkens too quickly.
Let the turkey rest 20 minutes for juicier slices.
Slow cooker option: cook on low 5–6 hours to 165°F, then broil briefly to crisp skin.
Storage: do not leave out over 2 hours. Refrigerate 3–4 days or freeze up to 3 months after cooling.
Serving ideas: mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, mac and cheese, or candied sweet potatoes.
Leftovers: great for sandwiches or casseroles.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Category: Christmas Dinner Ideas
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 275
- Sugar: 0.05
- Sodium: 795
- Fat: 31
- Saturated Fat: 19
- Carbohydrates: 1
- Fiber: 0.3
- Protein: 1
- Cholesterol: 82
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Final Thoughts
This roasted turkey breast brings everything you love about the holidays to your table without the fuss of a whole bird. It’s buttery, tender, and perfect for both cozy dinners and festive gatherings.
If you try this recipe, share your thoughts or tag your photo on Pinterest or Facebook. I’d love to see how it turns out in your kitchen.