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October 27, 2024
If you’re looking for a delicious and elegant dish to serve at your next dinner party or holiday gathering, look no further than rolled turkey breast. This savory and tender cut of meat is not only easy to prepare, but also a crowd-pleaser that will impress your guests. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to be a success.
To begin, you’ll need a boneless turkey breast that has been butterflied and pounded thin. This will make it easier to roll and ensure that it cooks evenly. Next, you’ll want to prepare a flavorful stuffing mixture to fill the turkey breast with. This can be anything from a traditional bread stuffing to a more adventurous combination of herbs, vegetables, and spices.
Once you’ve prepared the stuffing, spread it evenly over the surface of the turkey breast, leaving a small border around the edges. Carefully roll up the turkey breast, starting from one of the long sides, and secure it with kitchen twine or toothpicks. This will help the turkey breast maintain its shape as it cooks. Season the outside of the rolled turkey breast with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices you desire.
Preheat your oven to the appropriate temperature and place the rolled turkey breast in a roasting pan. Cook for the recommended amount of time, or until the internal temperature reaches a safe level for poultry. Be sure to let the turkey breast rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute and ensure a moist and flavorful end result. Serve with your favorite side dishes and enjoy!
Preparation for cooking rolled turkey breast
Butterball, Frozen Boneless Turkey Breast Roast with Gravy Packet, 3lbs.
Amazon.com
Before you start cooking the rolled turkey breast, there are a few important steps to prepare it properly:
1. Thaw the turkey breast
If you have a frozen turkey breast, make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Place the turkey breast in the refrigerator for 24 to 48 hours, depending on its size. This slow thawing process will ensure even cooking and prevent the meat from drying out.
2. Season the turkey breast
Remove the turkey breast from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels. Season the turkey breast with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices. Rub the seasonings all over the meat, including the inside part of the rolled breast.
Note: You can get creative with the seasonings, such as using garlic powder, paprika, thyme, rosemary, or a poultry seasoning blend. Just make sure to season it generously for a flavorful result.
3. Fill and tie the turkey breast
Lay the turkey breast flat on a clean surface. If there is a cavity, you can fill it with a stuffing or any fillings of your choice, like spinach and cheese or cranberry sauce. Be careful not to overfill, as it may result in the turkey breast not cooking evenly. Once filled, carefully roll the turkey breast tightly, making sure the filling is secure inside. Use kitchen twine to tie the rolled turkey breast at regular intervals to maintain its shape and hold everything together.
Tip: It’s important to tie the turkey breast properly to prevent it from falling apart during cooking. Start by tying a knot at one end of the breast, then wrap the twine around the width of the breast, moving towards the other end. Finally, tie another knot to secure the twine in place.
Once you have completed these preparation steps, you are now ready to cook your rolled turkey breast and enjoy a delicious and impressive meal.
Choosing the right turkey breast
When it comes to cooking a rolled turkey breast, choosing the right cut is essential for a delicious and tender result. Here are some tips to help you select the perfect turkey breast:
1. Boneless or bone-in?
Consider whether you want a boneless turkey breast or one with the bone still attached. Bone-in turkey breasts generally provide more flavor and tenderness, but they can be a bit trickier to cook. Boneless turkey breasts are easier to handle and carve, making them a popular choice for many home cooks.
2. Fresh or frozen?
You’ll also need to decide whether you prefer a fresh or frozen turkey breast. Fresh turkey breasts tend to have a better flavor and texture, but they can be more expensive and harder to find. Frozen turkey breasts are usually more readily available and often more budget-friendly.
3. Size matters
The size of your turkey breast will depend on how many people you plan to serve. As a general rule, you’ll want about 1/2 pound (225 grams) of turkey per person. If you’re serving a larger crowd, you may need to choose a larger turkey breast or consider getting multiple breasts.
Jennie-O, Frozen Oven Ready Boneless Turkey Breast with Gravy Packet, 2.75 lb
Amazon.com
- For 2-4 people, a 2-3 pound (900 grams – 1.4 kg) turkey breast should suffice.
- For 6-8 people, a 4-6 pound (1.8 kg – 2.7 kg) turkey breast is recommended.
- For a larger gathering of 10 or more people, you’ll want a turkey breast weighing at least 8-10 pounds (3.6 kg – 4.5 kg).
By considering these factors, you can choose the right turkey breast that suits your taste preferences and accommodates the number of guests you plan to serve. Remember, a properly selected turkey breast is the first step towards a delicious rolled turkey dinner!
Gathering the necessary ingredients
Before starting to cook rolled turkey breast, it is essential to gather all the necessary ingredients. This will ensure that you have everything you need and avoid any last-minute trips to the grocery store. Here is a list of ingredients you will need:
- 1 whole turkey breast
- Salt and pepper
- Herbs and spices (optional)
- Stuffing ingredients (optional)
- Bacon slices (optional)
- Olive oil or melted butter
- Butcher’s twine or kitchen string
- Roasting pan
- Meat thermometer
Make sure to check your kitchen pantry and fridge before heading out to buy these ingredients. You may already have some of them on hand.
Cooking rolled turkey breast
When it comes to cooking rolled turkey breast, there are a few key steps to ensure a delicious and juicy end result. Follow these instructions for a perfectly cooked rolled turkey breast every time.
First, start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). This temperature will allow the turkey to cook evenly and thoroughly.
While the oven is heating up, prepare the turkey breast by unrolling it and laying it flat on a cutting board. Season it generously with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices.
Next, you’ll want to add any stuffing or fillings to the turkey breast. This could be a traditional bread stuffing, a cranberry and walnut mixture, or even an apple and sausage stuffing. Spread the filling evenly over the turkey breast, leaving a small border around the edges.
Once the fillings are in place, carefully roll up the turkey breast, starting from one side and tucking in any loose fillings as you go. Tie the rolled turkey breast securely with kitchen twine to hold its shape during cooking.
Now it’s time to cook the rolled turkey breast. Place it on a roasting rack in a roasting pan, with the seam side down. This will help the turkey breast cook evenly and maintain its shape. Pour a little bit of chicken or turkey broth into the bottom of the roasting pan to help keep the turkey breast moist and flavorful.
Transfer the roasting pan to the preheated oven and let the turkey breast cook for about 20 minutes per pound, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast reads 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius). Baste the turkey breast with its own juices every 30 minutes or so to keep it moist.
Once the turkey breast is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and results in a tender and juicy turkey breast.
Finally, remove the kitchen twine and slice the rolled turkey breast into thick slices. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Marinating the turkey breast
Marinating the turkey breast is an essential step to infuse it with flavor and keep it moist during cooking. Follow these steps to marinate your rolled turkey breast:
1. Prepare the marinade:
In a bowl, combine your choice of marinade ingredients. Common options include olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, herbs like rosemary or thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed.
Applegate, Organic Smoked Turkey Breast, 6oz
Amazon.com
2. Prepare the turkey breast:
Unroll the turkey breast and lay it flat on a cutting board. Season the entire surface of the meat with salt and pepper.
3. Apply the marinade:
Place the turkey breast in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the meat, making sure it is fully coated. Massage the marinade into the turkey to ensure it penetrates the meat.
4. Marinate the turkey breast:
Cover the dish or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to develop and the meat to become more tender. Turn the turkey breast occasionally to ensure all sides marinate evenly.
5. Remove from the marinade:
Prior to cooking, remove the turkey breast from the marinade and discard the excess liquid. Pat the meat dry with paper towels to promote browning during cooking.
6. Proceed with the cooking method of your choice:
Once marinated, you can cook the turkey breast using your preferred method, such as roasting, grilling, or baking. Follow a reliable recipe or cooking guidelines for the specific cooking method you choose.
Note: You can reserve a portion of the marinade to use as a basting sauce during cooking if desired.
FAQ
What ingredients do I need to cook rolled turkey breast?
To cook a rolled turkey breast, you will need the following ingredients: 1 boneless turkey breast, salt, pepper, herbs of your choice (such as thyme or rosemary), olive oil, and kitchen twine.
Do I need to marinate the turkey breast before cooking?
No, marinating is not necessary for cooking rolled turkey breast. However, you can season it with salt, pepper, and herbs of your choice to enhance the flavor.
How do I roll the turkey breast?
To roll the turkey breast, place it on a cutting board and season it with salt, pepper, and herbs. Starting from one end, tightly roll the turkey breast and secure it with kitchen twine at regular intervals. Make sure the roll is tight to prevent it from falling apart while cooking.
What is the cooking time for rolled turkey breast?
The cooking time for rolled turkey breast depends on its size. As a general guideline, cook the turkey breast at 180°C (350°F) for about 20-25 minutes per pound. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F) to ensure it is fully cooked.