This Garlic Butter Roast Turkey Breast is everything you could want in a holiday dish – tender, flavorful, and full of rich garlic and herb-infused taste. With 40 cloves of garlic, the turkey absorbs all the deep, savory flavors, creating a truly unforgettable dining experience.
Perfect for family gatherings, this turkey breast recipe will make you the star of the table. Serve it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light salad to complete the meal. The tender, juicy meat pairs beautifully with the roasted garlic and fresh herbs, offering a truly indulgent meal for any special occasion.
Full Recipe:
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1 (4 to 5 pounds) bone-in turkey breast, skin on
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40 garlic cloves, peeled
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1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
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1 tablespoon fresh rosemary leaves, chopped
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1 tablespoon fresh sage leaves, chopped
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1 lemon, sliced
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, olive oil, thyme, rosemary, and sage.
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Season the turkey breast generously with salt and pepper. Rub the garlic butter mixture all over the turkey breast, ensuring it is well-coated.
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Place the turkey in a roasting pan. Arrange the garlic cloves and lemon slices around the turkey.
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Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast.
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Baste the turkey every 30 minutes with the pan juices to keep it moist and flavorful.
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Once done, let the turkey rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing. Serve with the roasted garlic and lemon slices.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 2 hours | Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal (per serving) | Servings: 6-8 servings
History and Origin
Turkey is a staple of holiday meals, especially in the United States, where it’s the centerpiece of Thanksgiving. However, the origin of the turkey as a holiday dish is believed to date back to the early 17th century. The first Thanksgiving featured wild fowl, which were likely turkeys, but they were roasted in a way that’s very different from the modern oven-roasting method we use today. Over the centuries, turkey has evolved from a wild bird used in communal feasts to a dish that now plays a central role in American holiday meals.
The garlic butter roast turkey breast with 40 cloves of garlic is a more recent take on the traditional roasted turkey. This dish, while not rooted in a specific cultural tradition, is inspired by Mediterranean and French culinary practices. Garlic, a fundamental ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine, is paired with butter to create a rich, aromatic flavor that permeates the meat. The addition of 40 cloves of garlic may seem like an unusual choice, but it’s a reference to the rich, robust garlic flavors found in French garlic butter dishes. The garlic cloves mellow and caramelize as they roast, offering a sweet, roasted flavor that complements the turkey beautifully.
Variations and Adaptations
While this garlic butter roast turkey breast is already delicious on its own, there are plenty of ways to adapt it to suit different tastes, dietary preferences, or regional flavors. Here are some creative variations you can try:
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Herb Variations: While the original recipe calls for thyme, rosemary, and sage, you can experiment with other herbs like oregano, tarragon, or parsley for a slightly different flavor profile. For a more vibrant touch, you can also add fresh basil or mint for a Mediterranean flair.
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Stuffing the Turkey: For a more hearty meal, you can stuff the turkey breast with ingredients like a savory herb stuffing, quinoa, or even a mixture of roasted vegetables. These fillings will not only add extra flavor but also make the turkey breast even more filling and satisfying.
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Garlic and Citrus Infusion: If you’re looking to add a touch of brightness to your dish, consider infusing the garlic butter with fresh citrus zest or juice. Lemon or orange zest can add a lovely fragrant note that balances the richness of the butter.
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Smokier Flavor: Add a little smoky flavor by using smoked paprika in the garlic butter or by roasting the turkey on a grill. The smoky undertones will add depth to the dish and make it stand out even more at the table.
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Vegan or Dairy-Free Options: If you are vegan or avoiding dairy, try replacing the butter with plant-based margarine or olive oil. This will still provide a great flavor profile, though it will be a bit lighter and more health-conscious.
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Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture. This small addition can add a surprising, yet delightful, zing to the dish.
Each variation provides an exciting twist on the classic garlic butter roast turkey breast, allowing you to tailor the recipe to your own preferences or regional ingredients.
Nutritional Information
This Garlic Butter Roast Turkey Breast is not only a delicious meal but also packed with essential nutrients. Turkey is a great source of lean protein, which is vital for building and repairing muscles and tissues in the body. The skinless turkey breast is low in fat compared to dark meat, making it a healthy option for those watching their calorie intake.
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Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving, making it a relatively light choice compared to fattier cuts of meat.
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Protein: Each serving provides about 30 grams of high-quality protein, which supports muscle health, immune function, and overall body repair.
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Fat: The dish contains around 20 grams of fat, largely from the butter, which can be adjusted if you want to lower the fat content by using less butter or a plant-based fat substitute.
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Carbohydrates: With minimal carbs, this dish is ideal for low-carb diets, especially when paired with non-starchy vegetables.
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Vitamins & Minerals: The garlic provides a host of beneficial compounds like allicin, which may have antioxidant properties. Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, and sage also offer a variety of vitamins, including vitamin C, vitamin A, and folate, as well as antioxidants.
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Sodium: If you’re watching your salt intake, be mindful of how much salt you use in the recipe as turkey can already have some natural sodium. You can adjust to suit your dietary needs.
While this recipe is undeniably delicious, you can always tweak the butter content or pair it with lighter side dishes (like steamed vegetables or a fresh salad) to balance the meal for those watching their calories or fat intake.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Garlic Butter Roast Turkey Breast with 40 cloves of garlic is perfect for a variety of occasions, from casual family dinners to formal holiday feasts. Here are a few ideas for sides and drinks that complement this turkey beautifully:
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Roasted Vegetables: Pair the turkey with a variety of roasted vegetables like carrots, parsnips, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes. The caramelization of the vegetables pairs wonderfully with the rich turkey and garlic.
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Mashed Potatoes or Cauliflower Mash: Creamy mashed potatoes (or a low-carb version like mashed cauliflower) serve as the perfect bed for the turkey, soaking up the garlic butter sauce and offering a satisfying texture.
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Crisp Salad: A light, crisp salad with greens such as arugula or spinach dressed in lemon vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the turkey and provide a refreshing contrast.
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Cranberry Sauce: While cranberry sauce is traditionally served with Thanksgiving turkey, its tartness provides a lovely contrast to the savory flavors of the garlic butter turkey.
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Bread: A crusty baguette or soft dinner rolls are great for soaking up the buttery garlic sauce that drips from the turkey.
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Wine Pairings: A white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, with its citrus and mineral notes, pairs excellently with the richness of the turkey. If you prefer red wine, try a light Pinot Noir for a perfect balance of fruitiness and acidity.
Tips and Tricks for Success
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Don’t Overcook the Turkey: Use a meat thermometer to check the turkey’s internal temperature. Turkey breast should be cooked to 165°F (74°C) for the best texture and flavor. Overcooking can result in dry meat, so keep an eye on it as it roasts.
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Rest the Turkey: After removing the turkey from the oven, let it rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist, tender turkey breast.
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Baste for Extra Juiciness: If you want an extra boost of flavor, baste the turkey every 30 minutes with the garlic butter sauce. This will keep the meat moist and infuse it with even more flavor.
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Garlic Clove Care: The garlic cloves can burn if left in direct contact with the pan too long, so ensure they’re spread evenly around the turkey and check during cooking to avoid overbaking them.
Potential Health Benefits
Garlic has long been used for its potential health benefits, including supporting cardiovascular health, boosting the immune system, and reducing inflammation. The garlic in this recipe contains allicin, a compound known for its antioxidant properties. Additionally, the fresh herbs used in the dish, such as rosemary and thyme, have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, adding a layer of health benefits.
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Turkey is a great source of lean protein, which helps in muscle growth and repair. It’s also rich in essential amino acids, B-vitamins like niacin and B6, and minerals like zinc and selenium, which support a healthy immune system and aid in metabolism.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Roast Turkey Breast with 40 cloves of garlic is a recipe that combines the best of comfort food with gourmet flavors. The richness of the garlic butter, combined with the tender turkey and caramelized garlic cloves, creates a dish that’s truly unforgettable. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to treat yourself and your loved ones to a delicious meal, this recipe is sure to impress. The simple yet flavorful ingredients make it a dish everyone will enjoy, and with its potential health benefits, it’s a meal that you can feel good about serving. Try it out for your next family gathering and savor the compliments that will come your way!