How long does it take to cook a Butterball turkey breast?

Cook for approximately 20 minutes per pound at 325°F (165°C). A 3-pound breast typically takes about 1.25 to 1.5 hours with resting time.

Should I brine my Butterball turkey breast?

Butterball turkeys are pre-brined, so additional brining isn't necessary. Our herb and citrus rub adds plenty of flavor.

Can I stuff a Butterball turkey breast?

While possible, we recommend cooking stuffing separately for food safety reasons and to ensure even cooking of the turkey.

How do I know when my turkey breast is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 170°F (77°C) in the thickest part of the breast.

Can I cook a Butterball turkey breast from frozen?

While possible, it's not recommended. Thawing ensures even cooking and allows for proper seasoning.

How many people will a 3-pound Butterball turkey breast feed?

A 3-pound breast typically serves 4-6 people, allowing for some leftovers.

Can I use this recipe for a whole Butterball turkey?

Yes, the seasoning and cooking method can be adapted for a whole turkey. Adjust cooking times based on the turkey's weight.

Butterball Turkey Breast Cooking Instructions & Temp Guide

Name: Herb-Crusted Butterball Turkey Breast with Citrus Butter Baste
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h 30 min
Total time: 2 h 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 Butterball turkey breast (3-5 lbs), fresh or thawed; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, finely chopped; 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped; 2 teaspoons fresh sage, finely chopped; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; Zest of 1 lemon; Zest of 1 orange; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for basting); Juice of 1 lemon (for basting); Juice of 1 orange (for basting)

Description

Elevate your Butterball turkey breast with a fragrant herb crust and tangy citrus butter baste. This foolproof method ensures a moist, flavorful centerpiece for any special meal.

Equipment:

Ingredients

Units Scale

1 Butterball turkey breast (3–5 lbs), fresh or thawed
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 teaspoons fresh thyme, finely chopped
2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
2 teaspoons fresh sage, finely chopped
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Zest of 1 lemon
Zest of 1 orange
1/2 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for basting)
Juice of 1 lemon (for basting)
Juice of 1 orange (for basting)

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Position the rack in the center of the oven.
Rinse the Butterball turkey breast under cold water. Pat it dry thoroughly with paper towels.
In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, 2 tablespoons melted butter, thyme, rosemary, sage, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, lemon zest, and orange zest.
Rub this herb mixture all over the turkey breast, making sure to get under the skin where possible.
Place the seasoned turkey breast, skin side up, on a roasting rack inside a shallow roasting pan.
Roast the turkey for about 20 minutes per pound. For a 3 lb breast, this will take approximately 1 hour.
Meanwhile, prepare the citrus butter baste. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter and mix with lemon juice, orange juice, and chicken broth.
After the first hour of roasting, begin basting the turkey every 30 minutes with the citrus butter mixture.
When the turkey is about 2/3 done (around 1 hour 40 minutes for a 3 lb breast), tent it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.
Continue roasting until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast registers 170°F (77°C). This should take about 2 to 2.5 hours total for a 3 lb breast.
Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving.
Slice the turkey breast against the grain and serve with any remaining pan juices.

Notes

The unique citrus butter baste in this recipe adds a bright, tangy flavor that complements the rich turkey meat. It also helps keep the meat moist during cooking, setting this recipe apart from standard roasting methods.
For optimal food safety, always use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 170°F.
If your turkey breast is larger than 5 lbs, adjust cooking time accordingly, allowing 15-20 minutes per pound.
Leftover turkey can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 6oz
Calories: 320
Sugar: 0
Sodium: 130mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0
Carbohydrates: 0
Fiber: 0
Protein: 52g
Cholesterol: 120mg