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December 10, 2024
Butterball turkey breast is a delicious and easy-to-cook option for a smaller gathering or when you don’t want to deal with a whole turkey. Whether you’re planning a Thanksgiving meal for a few people or simply craving a turkey dinner, this guide will walk you through the process of cooking a small Butterball turkey breast that’s moist and flavorful.
Step 1: Preparation
Before you start cooking, it’s important to thoroughly thaw your Butterball turkey breast. Place it in the refrigerator for 24 hours per 2.27 kilograms (5 pounds) of meat. Once thawed, remove the packaging and pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. Preheat your oven to 177 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit).
Step 2: Seasoning
Seasoning is key to enhancing the flavor of your turkey breast. Create a simple seasoning mix by combining salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and any other herbs or spices you prefer. Rub the seasoning mix all over the turkey breast, making sure to get it on all sides.
Tip: For added flavor, you can also brine your turkey breast before cooking. Mix 4 liters (1 gallon) of water with 240 grams (1 cup) of salt and 240 grams (1 cup) of sugar. Submerge the turkey breast in the brine solution, cover, and refrigerate for 8-24 hours. Rinse the turkey breast thoroughly before seasoning.
Step 3: Roasting
Place the seasoned turkey breast on a rack in a roasting pan, with the skin side facing up. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the breast, avoiding any bones. Roast in the preheated oven until the thermometer reads 74 degrees Celsius (165 degrees Fahrenheit), which typically takes about 2-3 hours depending on the size of the turkey breast.
Step 4: Resting and Carving
Once the turkey breast reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a moist and tender turkey. After resting, carefully carve the turkey breast against the grain into thin slices and serve.
With these simple steps, you can easily cook a small Butterball turkey breast that is sure to impress your guests or satisfy your own turkey cravings. Enjoy!
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking a Mouthwatering Small Butterball Turkey Breast
If you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-cook turkey dish, a small Butterball turkey breast is the perfect choice. Follow this step-by-step guide to prepare a mouthwatering butterball turkey breast that will impress your friends and family.
Ingredients:
- 1 small Butterball turkey breast
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
Instructions:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). |
| 2 | Remove the small Butterball turkey breast from its packaging and rinse it under cold water. Pat it dry with paper towels. |
| 3 | Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan, breast-side up. |
| 4 | Massage the butter all over the turkey breast, ensuring it is evenly coated. |
| 5 | In a small bowl, mix together salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. |
| 6 | Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the turkey breast, making sure to cover all surfaces. |
| 7 | Cover the roasting pan with aluminum foil. |
| 8 | Place the turkey breast in the preheated oven. |
| 9 | Cook the turkey breast for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). |
| 10 | Remove the turkey breast from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. |
| 11 | Slice the turkey breast and serve it with your favorite side dishes. |
Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a mouthwatering small Butterball turkey breast that will delight everyone at your table. Enjoy!
Preparing the Turkey Breast
Before you start cooking your small butterball turkey breast, it’s important to take some time to properly prepare it. Follow these steps to ensure a delicious and flavorful turkey:
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1. Thawing: If your turkey breast is frozen, make sure to thaw it thoroughly before cooking. Place the turkey breast in the refrigerator and allow it to thaw for 24 hours per 2 kilograms of weight. |
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2. Cleaning: Before cooking, rinse the turkey breast under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps remove any excess brine or juices that may be lingering on the surface. |
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3. Seasoning: To add flavor to your turkey breast, season it with your preferred herbs and spices. Common options include salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Rub the seasoning all over the turkey breast, making sure to coat it evenly. |
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4. Trussing: Trussing involves tying the turkey breast with kitchen twine to help it retain its shape during cooking. This step is optional, but it can help ensure even cooking and a more visually appealing final result. |
Once you have prepared the turkey breast, it’s time to move on to the next step: cooking!
Selecting the Perfect Seasonings
When it comes to cooking a small butterball turkey breast, selecting the right seasonings can make all the difference in flavor. There are a variety of seasonings to choose from, and it ultimately depends on your personal taste preferences. Here are some popular options to consider:
| Seasoning | Description |
|---|---|
| Herb Rub | A blend of dried herbs such as thyme, rosemary, sage, and parsley, mixed with garlic powder and salt. This combination adds a savory and aromatic flavor to the turkey. |
| Citrus Marinade | A mixture of lemon or orange juice, zest, and spices like garlic, paprika, and cayenne pepper. This marinade adds a tangy and refreshing taste to the turkey. |
| Spicy Cajun Blend | A combination of cayenne pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a hint of thyme and oregano. This blend adds a spicy and bold flavor to the turkey. |
| Maple Glaze | A mixture of maple syrup, dijon mustard, and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. This glaze adds a sweet and smoky flavor to the turkey. |
These are just a few examples, and you can always experiment with different seasonings to find your perfect match. Remember to generously coat the turkey breast with your chosen seasoning, ensuring that it is evenly distributed. This will help to enhance the flavor and create a delicious crust on the outside of the turkey. Enjoy your flavorful small butterball turkey breast!
Marinating the Turkey Breast
Marinating the turkey breast is a great way to infuse it with flavor and ensure it stays juicy during cooking. Here’s a simple marinating recipe to try:
Ingredients:
- 1 small butterball turkey breast
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Place the turkey breast in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried rosemary, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the marinade over the turkey breast, ensuring it is fully coated.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap, then marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.
During the marinating process, the flavors from the marinade will penetrate the turkey breast, resulting in a delicious and savory final dish. Remember to discard any remaining marinade after use to prevent cross-contamination.
Cooking the Turkey Breast
Once you have prepared your small butterball turkey breast, it is time to cook it to perfection. Follow these steps to ensure a delicious and juicy outcome:
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). This temperature will help the turkey breast cook evenly and retain its moisture.
2. Season the Turkey Breast
Before placing the turkey breast in the oven, make sure to season it well. You can use a combination of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and your favorite herbs and spices. Rub the seasoning all over the turkey breast, including under the skin, to maximize the flavor.
3. Place the Turkey Breast in a Roasting Pan
Using a roasting pan with a rack is recommended, as it allows for better air circulation around the turkey breast. This will help the skin to crisp up and the meat to cook more evenly. If you don’t have a roasting pan, a deep baking dish will also work.
4. Cook the Turkey Breast
Place the turkey breast in the preheated oven and cook it for approximately 20 minutes per pound. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) when fully cooked. To ensure an accurate reading, use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast without touching the bone.
While the turkey breast is cooking, baste it with pan drippings or melted butter every 30 minutes. This will help keep the meat moist and add extra flavor.
5. Let it Rest
Once the turkey breast is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes before carving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a tender and juicy final product.
Now, your small butterball turkey breast is ready to be carved and enjoyed with your favorite side dishes. Serve it as the centerpiece of a delicious holiday feast or enjoy it any time you’re craving a taste of roast turkey goodness. Happy cooking!
Q&A
What is the easiest way to cook a small Butterball turkey breast?
The easiest way to cook a small Butterball turkey breast is by roasting it in the oven. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C), place the turkey breast in a roasting pan, season it with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices, and then cook it for about 20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Can I cook a small Butterball turkey breast in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook a small Butterball turkey breast in a slow cooker. To do this, place the turkey breast in the slow cooker, season it with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices, and then cook it on low heat for about 6-8 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This method results in a moist and tender turkey breast.
What are some good seasoning options for a small Butterball turkey breast?
There are many seasoning options available for a small Butterball turkey breast. Some popular choices include a mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, or a combination of thyme, rosemary, sage, and marjoram. You can also experiment with different spices and herbs to create your own unique seasoning blend.
How long does it take to cook a small Butterball turkey breast?
The cooking time for a small Butterball turkey breast depends on its weight. As a general guideline, you should cook the turkey breast for about 20 minutes per pound at a temperature of 325°F (165°C). For example, a 4-pound turkey breast would take approximately 80 minutes to cook. However, it’s always best to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, as this is the most accurate way to determine if the turkey breast is fully cooked.
Can I stuff a small Butterball turkey breast?
It is not recommended to stuff a small Butterball turkey breast. Since the turkey breast cooks relatively quickly, there is a higher risk of the stuffing not reaching a safe internal temperature and becoming a breeding ground for bacteria. It’s safer to cook the stuffing separately in a casserole dish or to use aromatics, such as herbs and citrus, to add flavour to the turkey breast during cooking.