If you’re looking for a delicious and convenient option for your holiday feast or special occasion, look no further than Butterball Whole Turkey Breast. This tender and juicy turkey breast is a favorite among families around the world. With its easy preparation and mouthwatering flavor, it’s no wonder why so many people choose to cook this delectable dish.
To cook the Butterball Whole Turkey Breast, start by preheating your oven to the recommended temperature. While the oven is heating up, remove the turkey breast from its packaging and place it in a roasting pan. Make sure that the skin is facing up to allow for a crispy outer layer.
Next, season the turkey breast to your liking. You can use a variety of herbs and spices, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, or rosemary, to add extra flavor. Rub the seasonings all over the turkey breast, making sure to cover all sides for an even taste.
Once the oven is preheated and the turkey breast is seasoned, place the roasting pan in the oven. It’s best to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey breast. The turkey breast is cooked thoroughly when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C.
Remember to baste the turkey breast every 30 minutes with the pan juices to ensure maximum tenderness and flavor. This will also help keep the turkey breast moist and prevent it from drying out during the cooking process.
After the turkey breast is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and the turkey breast to become even more tender. Serve the Butterball Whole Turkey Breast with your favorite side dishes and enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal!
Preparing for Cooking Butterball Whole Turkey Breast
Before you start cooking your Butterball whole turkey breast, it’s important to properly prepare it. Here are the necessary steps to ensure a delicious and safe cooking process:
1. Thawing the Turkey Breast
Start by thawing the frozen Butterball whole turkey breast. The safest way to do this is to place it in the refrigerator and let it thaw slowly over a period of time. Allow approximately 24 hours of thawing time for every 4-5 pounds of turkey breast.
Alternatively, you can use the cold water thawing method. Make sure the turkey breast is in a leak-proof plastic bag and submerge it in cold water. Change the water every 30 minutes to make sure it stays cold. Allow 30 minutes of thawing time per pound.
2. Preheat the Oven
While the turkey breast is thawing, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). It’s important to have the oven properly heated before cooking the turkey breast.
3. Seasoning the Turkey Breast
After the turkey breast has thawed, you can start seasoning it. Remove the packaging and any giblets that may be inside the turkey breast cavity. Rinse the turkey breast with cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.
You can season the turkey breast according to your taste. Some popular seasonings include salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs like rosemary or thyme. Gently rub the seasoning mixture over the entire surface of the turkey breast.
4. Cooking the Turkey Breast
Place the seasoned Butterball whole turkey breast on a rack in a shallow roasting pan. Insert an oven-safe meat thermometer into the thickest part of the breast, making sure it doesn’t touch bone.
Cook the turkey breast in the preheated oven until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The cooking time will depend on the weight of the turkey breast, but as a general guideline, allow about 15 minutes of cooking time per pound.
Once the turkey breast is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a moist and flavorful turkey breast.
5. Serving the Turkey Breast
Carve the Butterball whole turkey breast into thin slices and serve with your favorite side dishes. Enjoy your deliciously cooked turkey breast!
Thawing Method | Thawing Time |
---|---|
Refrigerator Method | 24 hours for every 4-5 pounds |
Cold Water Method | 30 minutes per pound |
Thawing Butterball Whole Turkey Breast
Thawing the Butterball Whole Turkey Breast is an important step to ensure a safe and delicious meal. It’s crucial to follow the proper thawing technique to prevent any bacterial growth and ensure that the turkey is cooked evenly throughout.
1. Refrigerator Thawing
The recommended and safest method to thaw the Butterball Whole Turkey Breast is in the refrigerator. Follow these steps:
a. Remove the turkey breast from the outer packaging, but keep it in the vacuum-sealed bag.
b. Place the turkey breast on a tray or in a shallow pan to catch any potential drips or leaks.
c. Store the turkey breast in the refrigerator, making sure the temperature is set at or below 40°F (4°C).
d. Allow approximately 24 hours of thawing time for every 4 to 5 pounds of turkey breast.
e. Once thawed, keep the turkey breast refrigerated until ready to cook.
2. Cold Water Thawing
If you need to thaw the Butterball Whole Turkey Breast more quickly, you can use the cold water thawing method. Follow these steps:
a. Fill a clean sink or a large container with cold water.
b. Remove the turkey breast from the outer packaging and the vacuum-sealed bag.
c. Place the turkey breast in a leak-proof plastic bag.
d. Submerge the turkey breast in the cold water, making sure it is completely covered.
e. Change the water every 30 minutes to ensure it remains cold.
f. Allow 30 minutes of thawing time per pound of turkey breast.
g. Once thawed, cook the turkey breast immediately.
Note: Never thaw the Butterball Whole Turkey Breast at room temperature, as this promotes bacterial growth and increases the risk of foodborne illness.
By following these thawing methods, you can safely and effectively thaw your Butterball Whole Turkey Breast, ensuring a delicious and enjoyable meal for you and your loved ones.
Seasoning Butterball Whole Turkey Breast
Seasoning a Butterball whole turkey breast is an essential step in preparing a delicious and flavorful dish. By adding the right combination of herbs, spices, and other seasonings, you can enhance the natural flavors of the turkey breast and create a mouthwatering meal.
Here are a few simple steps to follow when seasoning your Butterball whole turkey breast:
1. Prepare the turkey breast by rinsing it with cold water and patting it dry with paper towels.
2. Mix together a seasoning blend of salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. The amounts can vary depending on your personal taste preferences.
3. Rub the seasoning blend all over the turkey breast, making sure to coat it evenly. You can also gently lift the skin and massage the seasoning directly onto the meat for added flavor.
4. If desired, you can also add additional seasonings such as paprika, dried oregano, or dried parsley for extra taste dimensions.
5. Once the turkey breast is seasoned, cover it with plastic wrap or place it in a sealed container and refrigerate for at least one hour or overnight. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat and enhance the taste.
Remember to adjust the seasoning amounts based on the size of the turkey breast. A general rule of thumb is to use approximately one teaspoon of seasoning per pound of meat.
By following these simple tips and using your favorite seasonings, you can easily transform a Butterball whole turkey breast into a delectable centerpiece for your holiday meal or any special occasion.
Cooking Butterball Whole Turkey Breast in the Oven
To cook a delicious Butterball Whole Turkey Breast in the oven, follow these simple steps:
Ingredients you will need:
- 1 Butterball Whole Turkey Breast
- Salt
- Pepper
- Herbs and spices of your choice (optional)
- Olive oil or butter
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Remove the turkey breast from the packaging and pat it dry with paper towels.
- Season the turkey breast generously with salt and pepper. You can also add herbs and spices according to your taste preferences.
- Place the turkey breast on a roasting rack or in a shallow roasting pan.
- Brush the turkey breast with olive oil or melted butter to help keep it moist during cooking.
- Cover the turkey breast loosely with foil.
- Place the turkey breast in the preheated oven and roast for about 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast.
- Once the turkey breast is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes before slicing.
- Slice the turkey breast and serve it with your favorite sides.
Enjoy your deliciously roasted Butterball Whole Turkey Breast straight from the oven!
Cooking Butterball Whole Turkey Breast in a Slow Cooker
If you’re looking for a convenient and hassle-free way to cook a Butterball whole turkey breast, using a slow cooker is a great option. This method allows the turkey breast to cook slowly, resulting in moist and flavorful meat. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to cook a Butterball whole turkey breast in a slow cooker.
Step 1: Prep the Turkey Breast
Start by taking the Butterball whole turkey breast out of its packaging and place it on a cutting board. Remove any visible fat or skin if desired. Rinse the turkey breast under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.
Step 2: Season the Turkey Breast
Next, season the turkey breast with your preferred spices and herbs. You can use a combination of salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and any other seasonings you like. Rub the seasonings all over the turkey breast, ensuring it is evenly coated.
Step 3: Place the Turkey Breast in the Slow Cooker
Place the seasoned turkey breast into the slow cooker, making sure it fits comfortably. You may need to adjust the size of the turkey breast or use a larger slow cooker depending on the size of your turkey breast.
Step 4: Cook the Turkey Breast
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set the temperature to low. Let the turkey breast cook for approximately 6-8 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Serve the Turkey Breast
Once the turkey breast is fully cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before carving. Slice the turkey breast into thin slices and serve it with your favorite side dishes.
Using a slow cooker to cook a Butterball whole turkey breast is a convenient and easy way to enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a moist and flavorful turkey breast ready to be enjoyed.
Q&A
What is the best way to cook a Butterball whole turkey breast?
The best way to cook a Butterball whole turkey breast is to start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Remove the turkey breast from the packaging and place it in a shallow roasting pan. Brush the turkey breast with melted butter or olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs and spices. Cover the turkey breast with foil and roast for about 2 to 2 ½ hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let the turkey breast rest for about 10 minutes before carving.
Can I cook a Butterball whole turkey breast in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook a Butterball whole turkey breast in a slow cooker. Start by placing a trivet or aluminum foil balls in the bottom of the slow cooker to elevate the turkey breast above the juices. Season the turkey breast with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs and spices. Place the turkey breast in the slow cooker and cover with the lid. Cook on low for about 6 to 8 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Keep in mind that the turkey breast may not get as crispy as it would in the oven.
How long does it take to cook a Butterball whole turkey breast on the grill?
Cooking a Butterball whole turkey breast on the grill typically takes about 15 to 20 minutes per pound. Preheat your grill to medium heat and prepare a two-zone fire. Season the turkey breast with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs and spices. Place the turkey breast on the cool side of the grill, close the lid, and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This usually takes around 1 ½ to 2 hours for a 5-pound turkey breast. Make sure to turn the turkey breast occasionally for even cooking.
Is it possible to cook a Butterball whole turkey breast in an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can cook a Butterball whole turkey breast in an Instant Pot. Start by seasoning the turkey breast with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs and spices. Pour 1 cup of chicken or turkey broth into the Instant Pot, and then place the turkey breast on the trivet. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to manual high pressure for about 6 to 8 minutes per pound. Once the cooking time is up, allow for a natural release for 10 minutes, followed by a quick release. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) before serving.