Roasted Turkey Breast with Gravy

Nothing beats the comforting aroma and mouthwatering flavor of a perfectly cooked Roasted Turkey Breast with Gravy. This dish delivers tender, juicy meat paired with a rich, silky gravy that elevates any meal, whether for holiday celebrations or a cozy dinner night. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can master this classic recipe and impress your family and friends with a feast that feels both special and effortlessly delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple yet impressive: The recipe uses basic ingredients but results in a gourmet-quality dish everyone will adore.
• Juiciness guaranteed: Learn how to keep your turkey breast moist and tender every single time, avoiding dryness.
• Flavor-packed gravy: The homemade gravy is rich and flavorful, perfectly complementing the roasted turkey.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a Sunday dinner, this recipe fits all kinds of celebrations.
• Easy to customize: You can tweak herbs and spices to suit your taste, making it your personal signature dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather these simple yet essential ingredients to create a Roasted Turkey Breast with Gravy that is bursting with flavor and beautiful in presentation. Each item contributes to the tenderness, aroma, and savory finish of this classic dish.

• Turkey breast: Choose a fresh, bone-in breast for the best flavor and juiciness during roasting.
• Olive oil or butter: Used to baste and keep the skin crispy and golden brown.
• Salt and pepper: Basic seasonings that bring out the natural flavor of the turkey.
• Fresh herbs: Rosemary, thyme, and sage add an aromatic depth that turns simple poultry into a feast.
• Garlic cloves: Roasted alongside the turkey, garlic infuses the meat with a mellow yet flavorful punch.
• Chicken broth or stock: The base for the gravy, enriching it with savory goodness.
• Flour or cornstarch: Helps thicken the gravy to a silky consistency.
• Onion or shallots: Adds sweetness and body to the gravy.

Variations for Roasted Turkey Breast with Gravy

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, letting you put your own twist on Roasted Turkey Breast with Gravy to suit your dietary needs or flavor preferences. Try these variations to keep things exciting at your table.

• Herb butter rub: Mix softened butter with fresh herbs and lemon zest to slather under the skin for extra moisture and zing.
• Spicy twist: Add smoked paprika, cayenne, or chili powder to the seasoning for a subtle heat.
• Gluten-free gravy: Substitute flour with cornstarch or use arrowroot powder to keep it free of gluten without sacrificing texture.
• Sweet and savory: Incorporate a splash of apple cider or cranberry juice into the gravy for a hint of sweetness.
• Smoked turkey flavor: Use smoked turkey breast or add a touch of liquid smoke in the seasoning to deepen the profile.

How to Make Roasted Turkey Breast with Gravy

Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Breast

Start by patting your turkey breast dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin. Gently loosen the skin to rub seasoning and herbs directly onto the meat for maximum flavor infusion. Season generously with salt, pepper, and your chosen herbs.

Step 2: Roast the Turkey

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the turkey breast on a roasting pan, skin side up, and drizzle with olive oil or dot with butter. Roast uncovered for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), basting occasionally to keep the meat moist.

Step 3: Rest the Turkey

Once out of the oven, cover the turkey loosely with foil and let it rest for at least 15 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the breast tender and juicy when sliced.

Step 4: Make the Gravy

While the turkey rests, use the pan drippings to make your gravy. Place the roasting pan over medium heat on the stove, add chopped onions or shallots, and cook until softened. Stir in flour or cornstarch to create a roux, then slowly whisk in chicken broth. Simmer until thickened, seasoning to taste.

Step 5: Serve

Slice the turkey breast and arrange on a platter. Pour the gravy over or serve on the side to let everyone enjoy as they like.

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Turkey Breast with Gravy

• Use a meat thermometer: For perfectly cooked turkey, rely on an accurate thermometer rather than guesswork.
• Don’t skip resting: Resting the turkey keeps it juicy and makes slicing easier without shredding the meat.
• Save those drippings: Flavor packed drippings are key to the best homemade gravy.
• Baste regularly: Brushing the turkey with its own juices helps build a crisp, golden skin.
• Room temperature meat: Let the turkey sit out for 30 minutes before roasting to cook evenly.

How to Serve Roasted Turkey Breast with Gravy

Garnishes

Fresh sprigs of rosemary, thyme, or sage make beautiful garnishes that add a pop of color and an extra hint of fragrance to your Roasted Turkey Breast with Gravy presentation.

Side Dishes

Classic mashed potatoes or a creamy sweet potato mash perfectly accompany the turkey and gravy. For freshness, steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts add a lovely contrast in texture and flavor.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the sliced turkey breast stacked neatly on a large wooden board with gravy in a rustic bowl nearby. Add seasonal fruits like cranberries or pomegranate seeds around for a festive touch that’s as vibrant as it is tasty.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover turkey tightly in aluminum foil or place in an airtight container, then refrigerate for up to 4 days. Store gravy separately to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Freezing

Both turkey breast and gravy freeze well. Slice the meat before freezing for easier reheating, and store gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Gently reheat turkey slices in a covered dish with a splash of broth to keep them moist, either in the oven at low temperature or in a microwave. Warm the gravy on the stove, stirring occasionally to keep it smooth.

FAQs

Can I use boneless turkey breast for this recipe?

Yes, boneless turkey breast works well and often cooks faster; just adjust your roasting time and monitor the internal temperature closely to avoid overcooking.

How do I prevent the turkey breast from drying out?

Brining beforehand, basting during cooking, and allowing the meat to rest after roasting are key steps to keep the turkey juicy and tender.

What can I do if I don’t have fresh herbs?

Dried herbs can be substituted at about one-third the amount of fresh; however, fresh herbs provide a brighter flavor and more appealing presentation.

Is it necessary to make gravy from pan drippings?

While pan drippings create the richest gravy, you can use store-bought stock or broth as a base if pressed for time, though the flavor may be less intense.

Can I prepare the Roasted Turkey Breast with Gravy in advance?

You can roast the turkey breast a day ahead and reheat gently before serving; make the gravy fresh for the best consistency and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Roasted Turkey Breast with Gravy is the kind of dish that brings people together around the table, creating comforting memories without fuss. The combination of juicy, flavorful turkey and luscious gravy is truly timeless, and with these easy steps and tips, you’re more than ready to make this classic your own. So, grab your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to enjoy a wonderfully satisfying meal that’s destined to become a favorite tradition.

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