Name: Easy Roast Turkey Breast
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-487771H22M54S
Total time: PT-487771H22M54S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 pounds (1.4 kg) boneless skin-on turkey breast; ¼ cup (60 g) butter, softened; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 teaspoons kosher salt; 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper; 1 teaspoon fresh minced sage; ½ teaspoon fresh minced rosemary; ½ teaspoon fresh minced thyme; ¼ cup (40 g) finely chopped onion; 1 clove garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups (360 ml) chicken stock; ¼ cup (60 ml) heavy cream; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon cracked black pepper; Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This roast turkey breast stays tender and moist, with a golden, flavorful skin and aromatic herb butter. The homemade pan gravy is creamy, savory, and perfectly complements the turkey. Minimal prep, reliable results, and impressive flavor make it ideal for both casual dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Turkey Breast:

3 pounds (1.4 kg) boneless skin-on turkey breast
¼ cup (60 g) butter, softened
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon cracked black pepper
1 teaspoon fresh minced sage
½ teaspoon fresh minced rosemary
½ teaspoon fresh minced thyme

For the Pan Gravy:

¼ cup (40 g) finely chopped onion
1 clove garlic, minced
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups (360 ml) chicken stock
¼ cup (60 ml) heavy cream
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon cracked black pepper
Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare herb butter: In a small bowl, mix softened butter with garlic, sage, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Season turkey: Rub the herb butter all over the turkey breast. Drizzle olive oil over the top for extra crispiness.
Roast: Place turkey breast on a roasting pan and roast for 60–75 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Make pan gravy:
- In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and sauté until soft.
- Stir in flour to make a roux and cook for 1–2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in chicken stock and heavy cream. Simmer until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
Serve: Slice turkey breast and pour pan gravy over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

Serves: 4–6
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 60–75 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 15–20 minutes

Variations

Add root vegetables such as carrots and parsnips to the roasting pan for a complete meal.
Use dried herbs if fresh herbs aren’t available; reduce quantity slightly.
Add a squeeze of lemon juice to the pan gravy for brightness.
For a richer turkey flavor, baste with pan juices halfway through roasting.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover turkey and gravy in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C) or in a skillet with a splash of stock or cream to maintain moisture.

FAQs

Can I cook this in the Instant Pot?

Yes, but cooking time will be shorter. Use the “Poultry” setting and check internal temperature carefully.

Can I make the pan gravy ahead of time?

Yes, prepare and store in the fridge. Reheat gently before serving.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, slice the turkey and freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

How do I ensure the turkey stays moist?

Use herb butter under the skin, baste occasionally, and let the meat rest before slicing.

Can I use a bone-in turkey breast?

Yes, but increase cooking time and check internal temperature to ensure doneness.

Conclusion

Easy Roast Turkey Breast is a juicy, flavorful, and elegant dish with minimal prep. With aromatic herb butter, tender meat, and creamy pan gravy, it’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and festive meals. This recipe delivers classic roast turkey flavor that’s sure to impress.