Herb-Infused Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic and Butter Recipe

I’m excited to share this Herb-Infused Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic and Butter Recipe because it’s one of those dishes that feels elegant yet totally doable any time you want a beautifully flavorful roast without fussing over a whole bird. The garlic and butter create this luscious, rich base, while fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme bring in a fragrant, earthy note that makes every bite sing. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or even a holiday if you’re looking for something a little less intimidating than roasting a whole turkey.

What I love most about this Herb-Infused Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic and Butter Recipe is how well the flavors soak in, giving you juicy, tender meat with a savory herb crust that’s just irresistible. Plus, it’s super forgiving—you can prep it ahead, and it roasts nicely without drying out if you keep an eye on the temperature. I can’t wait for you to try this—it’s truly a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe works together beautifully to build layers of flavor and ensure juicy, tender turkey breast. When shopping, I always recommend using fresh herbs and good-quality butter—it really makes a difference here!

• Bone-in turkey breast: The bone helps keep the meat moist and adds tons of flavor during roasting.
• Unsalted butter: Using unsalted gives you control over the seasoning and creates that rich, silky finish.
• Garlic cloves: Freshly minced garlic provides a fragrant punch that blends perfectly with the butter.
• Fresh rosemary: Make sure it’s finely chopped to evenly distribute its piney, aromatic flavor.
• Fresh thyme: Just like rosemary, fresh thyme brings a sweet, slightly lemony herb note that brightens the dish.
• Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning to enhance all those natural flavors without overpowering them.
• Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a bit of spice and depth without being too aggressive.

Variations

I like to change things up occasionally based on what herbs I have on hand or the flavor profile I’m aiming for. Don’t hesitate to make this Herb-Infused Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic and Butter Recipe your own—the beauty of it is in how flexible it can be!

• Lemon zest and parsley variation: I once added lemon zest and fresh parsley to the butter mixture for a brighter, fresher vibe that was amazing during springtime gatherings.
• Diet-friendly option: For a lower-fat version, swap half the butter for olive oil—it still keeps the turkey moist and flavorful.
• Spicy twist: Adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper gives it a subtle smoky heat I found really fun to experiment with.

How to Make Herb-Infused Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic and Butter Recipe

Step 1: Make Your Herb Butter Mixture

Start by softening your butter at room temperature until it’s easily spreadable—this usually takes about 30 minutes. Then, combine the butter with the minced garlic, finely chopped rosemary, thyme, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper in a bowl. Mix everything thoroughly to create a fragrant and flavorful herb butter that will be the secret weapon of your roast. I like to press a little taste here and adjust the garlic or herbs if needed because it’s going to infuse the turkey with all those lovely flavors.

Step 2: Prepare the Turkey Breast

Place your bone-in turkey breast on a baking tray or in a roasting pan. Carefully loosen the skin from the meat by sliding your fingers underneath without tearing it—this part is key because that’s where you’ll spread the herb butter. Using a spatula or your hands, gently massage the herb butter under the skin, making sure to cover as much of the meat as possible for maximum flavor and moisture. Don’t forget to spread any remaining butter on top of the skin for a nicely browned crust.

Step 3: Roast the Turkey Breast

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the turkey breast in the center of the oven and roast for about 20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer in the thickest part. Halfway through cooking, baste the turkey with pan juices to keep it moist. If the skin starts browning too quickly, tent it loosely with foil to avoid burning. Personally, I find that slow and steady roasting gives you the juiciest results every time.

Step 4: Rest and Carve

Once your Herb-Infused Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic and Butter Recipe is perfectly roasted, remove it from the oven and tent it with foil for at least 15 minutes. This step lets the juices redistribute, making your turkey even more succulent. When you carve, remember to slice against the grain for the most tender bites. I love watching how the butter and herbs create this gorgeous, golden crust that just smells heavenly.

How to Serve Herb-Infused Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic and Butter Recipe

Garnishes

I usually garnish this roast turkey with a few sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme to echo those wonderful herb aromas in the dish. Sometimes, I sprinkle a little sea salt flakes right before serving for a subtle crunch and saltiness—it’s a small touch that adds so much!

Side Dishes

This turkey pairs beautifully with classic mashed potatoes and roasted root vegetables. I also love serving it with a tangy cranberry sauce or a fresh green salad with a lemon vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the butter. If I’m in a hurry, steamed green beans tossed with a bit of garlic and lemon never disappoint.

Creative Ways to Present

For special dinners, I like to arrange the sliced turkey breast on a large wooden board surrounded by roasted garlic cloves and sprigs of herbs. Adding small bowls of herb-infused gravy or mustard on the side gives guests options and makes the table look inviting and festive. It’s a simple way to elevate the presentation without a lot of extra work.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover herb-infused roast turkey breast stores beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I always make sure to separate any pan juices or buttery drippings and pour a bit back over the sliced meat before storing to keep it moist and flavorful. This makes reheating a much better experience.

Freezing

I’ve frozen sliced leftover turkey in freezer-safe bags with a little bit of the herbed butter and juices to preserve moisture. It holds up well for up to 3 months, and it’s a lifesaver when you want a quick, tasty protein for meals further down the line.

Reheating

The best way I’ve found to reheat turkey without drying it out is to warm it gently in a covered dish in the oven at 300°F (150°C), basting occasionally with any reserved juices or extra butter. A quick zap in the microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel can work if you’re in a hurry, but the oven method keeps the texture and flavor much better.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Herb-Infused Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic and Butter Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen because it’s the perfect blend of taste, simplicity, and comfort. Every time I pull this out of the oven, the house fills with a warm, inviting aroma that gets everyone excited to gather around the table. I truly think you’ll find it just as rewarding and delicious as I have—give it a try and make it your own, because good food is all about sharing love in the simplest forms.

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