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September 20, 2024
If you’re looking to prepare a delicious and moist turkey for a special occasion or simply to enjoy a fantastic meal with your loved ones, the Butterball brand is a great choice. Their turkey breasts are known for their superior quality and flavor, and cooking them in the oven is a traditional and foolproof method. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or planning a Sunday gathering, this guide will walk you through the steps to cook a Butterball turkey breast in the oven to perfection.
Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Breast
Before you begin, make sure to thaw your Butterball turkey breast thoroughly if it’s frozen. It’s recommended to thaw it in the refrigerator for about 24 hours for every 4-6 pounds of turkey. Once thawed, remove the packaging, and pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. This will help the seasonings adhere better and ensure a crispy skin.
Step 2: Season the Turkey Breast
Now it’s time to infuse your Butterball turkey breast with delicious flavors. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and any other preferred seasonings all over the turkey breast. You can also rub some minced garlic, dried herbs, or a mixture of olive oil and herbs for added taste. Don’t forget to season the cavity if your turkey breast has one. For extra flavor, let the turkey breast marinate in the refrigerator for a few hours or even overnight.
Step 3: Preheat and Roast
Preheat your oven to 325°F (162°C). Place the seasoned Butterball turkey breast on a rack in a roasting pan, breast side up. This will allow the turkey to cook evenly and for the excess fat to drip down. Cover the turkey breast loosely with aluminum foil, place it in the preheated oven, and let it roast. The general guideline is to cook the turkey for about 10 minutes per pound, but it’s crucial to use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The turkey breast is safe to consume when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Tip: Basting the turkey breast every 30 minutes with the pan drippings or a flavorful liquid, such as chicken or turkey broth, will ensure a moist and juicy result.
Once the Butterball turkey breast is cooked to perfection, remove it from the oven, cover it loosely with foil, and let it rest for about 15 minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender turkey breast. Carve and serve your beautifully cooked Butterball turkey breast with your favorite sides, and get ready to enjoy a memorable meal with your family and friends!
Prepare the Turkey Breast
Before cooking the Butterball turkey breast, there are a few steps you need to take to prepare it:
- Remove the turkey breast from its packaging.
- Thoroughly rinse the turkey breast under cold running water.
- Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels.
- Place the turkey breast on a clean cutting board.
- Trim any excess fat or skin from the turkey breast.
- Season the turkey breast with your desired spices and herbs.
- Allow the turkey breast to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking.
Once you have prepared the turkey breast, you are ready to move on to the next step in the cooking process.
Gather the Ingredients
Before you begin cooking your butterball turkey breast in the oven, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 butterball turkey breast: Make sure to choose a size that suits your needs and fits in your oven.
- Salt and pepper: These basic seasonings will enhance the flavor of your turkey breast.
- Herbs and spices: You can choose from a variety of herbs and spices to add more flavor to your turkey breast. Some popular options include rosemary, thyme, sage, and garlic powder.
- Butter or olive oil: This will help keep your turkey breast moist and flavorful.
- Vegetables: Optional vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery can be used to enhance the flavor of your turkey breast and create a delicious side dish.
Once you have gathered all the ingredients, you’ll be ready to start cooking your butterball turkey breast in the oven!
Clean and Pat Dry
Before cooking your butterball turkey breast, it’s important to thoroughly clean the meat and pat it dry. This will help to remove any dirt or bacteria that may be present on the surface of the meat.
Start by taking the turkey breast out of its packaging and placing it on a clean surface. Rinse the turkey breast under cold water, making sure to remove any excess blood or other fluids. Pay close attention to the cavities and crevices of the turkey breast, as they can often harbor bacteria.
Once the turkey breast has been rinsed, use paper towels to pat it dry. It’s important to remove as much moisture as possible, as excess moisture can cause the skin to become soggy during cooking. Make sure to pat both the exterior and interior of the turkey breast.
Cleaning Tips:
When cleaning the turkey breast, avoid using soap or any other cleaning products. Plain water is sufficient for rinsing the meat.
Make sure to wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling the turkey breast to prevent the spread of bacteria.
Dispose of the packaging and any paper towels used for drying the turkey breast properly to avoid cross-contamination.
By thoroughly cleaning and patting dry your butterball turkey breast, you’ll ensure that it’s ready for the next step in the cooking process.
Season the Turkey Breast
Before cooking the butterball turkey breast, it’s important to season it to enhance its flavor. Here are some common seasonings you can use:
| Seasonings | Amount |
|---|---|
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black Pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Paprika | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Dried Thyme | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Garlic Powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
Combine all the seasonings in a small bowl and mix them well. Rub the mixture all over the turkey breast, making sure to cover the entire surface. You can also gently lift the skin and rub some of the seasonings directly on the meat for added flavor.
Choose the Seasonings
Before cooking your Butterball turkey breast, you’ll want to choose the right seasonings to enhance its flavor. Here are some popular options:
1. Salt and Pepper
The classic combination of salt and pepper is a simple yet effective way to season your turkey breast. Sprinkle them generously over the entire surface of the meat to add a basic level of seasoning.
2. Herbs and Spices
If you want to add more depth of flavor, consider using a variety of herbs and spices. Common options include:
| Rosemary | Thyme |
| Sage | Paprika |
| Garlic powder | Onion powder |
You can either use these herbs and spices individually or create your own blend according to your taste preferences.
3. Herb Butter Rub
For a more indulgent and flavorful turkey breast, consider making a herb butter rub. Mix softened butter with chopped herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage. Rub this mixture all over the turkey breast, ensuring that it is evenly coated.
Remember to let the seasoned turkey breast sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat before cooking.
Rub the Seasonings
Once the turkey breast is prepped and ready, it’s time to add some flavor with a delicious seasoning rub. Here’s how:
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon of dried rosemary
- 1 tablespoon of dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon of dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, combine all the dried herbs and spices.
- Take the turkey breast and gently pat it dry with paper towels.
- Sprinkle the seasoning rub all over the turkey breast, making sure to coat it evenly.
- Massage the rub into the meat, ensuring that it adheres well.
- Allow the seasoned turkey breast to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Now that you’ve successfully rubbed the seasonings onto the turkey breast, it’s time to move on to the next step in this delicious turkey recipe.
Cook the Turkey Breast
1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Remove the turkey breast from the packaging and place it on a rack in a shallow roasting pan.
3. Brush the turkey breast with melted butter or olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings.
4. Insert an oven-safe meat thermometer into the thickest part of the turkey breast, making sure it doesn’t touch the bone.
5. Place the turkey breast in the preheated oven and roast for about 20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Baste the turkey breast with pan drippings every 30 minutes to keep it moist.
7. Once the turkey breast reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving.
8. Slice the turkey breast and serve it with your favorite sides and gravy.
9. Enjoy your delicious roasted turkey breast!
Q&A
What is a butterball turkey breast?
A butterball turkey breast is a specific type of turkey breast that has been bred to have a high amount of natural fat. This results in a juicier and more flavorful meat.
How do I cook a butterball turkey breast in the oven?
To cook a butterball turkey breast in the oven, preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan and season it with salt, pepper, and any desired herbs or spices. You can also brush it with melted butter for added flavor. Then, cover the pan with foil and roast it for about 2 hours or until the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Let it rest for a few minutes before carving and serving.
Can I cook a butterball turkey breast without using an oven?
While the oven is the most common method for cooking a butterball turkey breast, you can also cook it using other methods such as grilling or smoking. These methods will give the turkey a unique flavor and may require different cooking times and techniques.
Is it necessary to baste a butterball turkey breast while cooking?
Basting a butterball turkey breast is not necessary, but it can help keep the meat moist and add flavor. If you choose to baste, you can use the natural juices from the turkey or a basting liquid such as melted butter or broth. Baste the turkey every 30 minutes or so during cooking for best results.
Can I stuff a butterball turkey breast?
It is not recommended to stuff a butterball turkey breast. Since it is a boneless cut of meat, it may cook unevenly if it is stuffed. It is best to cook the stuffing separately and serve it alongside the turkey breast.