Baked turkey is one of those comforting dishes that never fails to impress at the dinner table. I still remember the first time I carefully prepared a turkey breast; it stood out with its golden brown skin and succulent, juicy meat that made every bite memorable. The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity and the delightful flavors of the herbs used. It typically takes about two hours from start to finish, making it a straightforward yet rewarding endeavor.

What makes this baked turkey special is the crispy skin that contrasts perfectly with the tender meat underneath. Whether you’re planning a festive dinner or just looking for a hearty weeknight meal, this dish is perfect for any occasion and is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Why you’ll love baked turkey

Juicy, flavorful meat with a crispy exterior.
Simple prep with minimal cleanup.
Perfect for family gatherings and holidays.
Leftovers can be turned into delicious sandwiches.
Budget-friendly compared to whole turkeys.

What ingredients do I need for baked turkey?

1 turkey breast
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary

Ingredient notes & swaps:

Olive oil acts as a moisture barrier and enhances flavor; you can use melted butter as a substitute.
Fresh herbs can replace dried ones for a more vibrant taste.
Any favorite spices can add personal flair, especially if you want to mix things up.

How do I make baked turkey step-by-step?

Making baked turkey is easy. Start by seasoning a turkey breast with olive oil and a blend of spices. Roast it until golden and tender for a delicious meal.

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels.
Rub the olive oil all over the turkey breast.
In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, and rosemary.
Rub the spice mixture evenly over the turkey breast.
Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan and cover it with foil.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 1.5 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Remove the foil in the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow the skin to brown.
Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Pro Tip: To ensure a juicy turkey, avoid opening the oven too often while it cooks. You want those flavors to develop without losing heat!

How should I serve it?

Baked turkey is versatile and can be served with various sides. Consider pairing it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Garnish with sprigs of rosemary or thyme for a beautiful presentation.

Can I make it ahead? How do I store and reheat it?

Absolutely! Baked turkey can easily be made ahead of time. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, ensuring it retains its moisture.

How do I fix common issues?

If your turkey turns out dry, it may have been overcooked. Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. For bland flavor, you can increase the seasoning next time. If the skin isn’t crispy, remove the foil earlier during roasting.

What variations can I try?

Experiment with different spice blends! For a lemon herb turkey, add lemon zest and replace some of the dried herbs with fresh parsley. You can also try adding a bit of heat with cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

FAQs

Can I cook a frozen turkey breast?
Yes, but it requires different cooking times and might be less flavorful. It’s best to thaw it in the fridge overnight before cooking.

What should I do if the turkey breast is too large for my roasting pan?
Cutting the breast into halves can make it fit better in the pan while still allowing for even cooking.

Is baking turkey healthier than frying?
Yes, baking typically uses less oil, making it a healthier option compared to frying.

What can I do with leftovers?
Turkey leftovers are great for sandwiches, salads, or casseroles. Get creative with your dishes!

Baked Turkey

This baked turkey breast features juicy, flavorful meat with a crispy exterior, making it perfect for festive dinners or hearty weeknight meals.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30

Cook Time 1 30

Total Time 2

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

For the turkey

1 piece turkey breast Approximately 3-4 pounds
2 tablespoons olive oil Can be substituted with melted butter
1 tablespoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme Fresh herbs can be used for more flavor
1 teaspoon dried rosemary Fresh herbs can be used for more flavor

Method

Preparation

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels.
Rub the olive oil all over the turkey breast.
In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, and rosemary.
Rub the spice mixture evenly over the turkey breast.

Cooking

Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan and cover it with foil.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 1.5 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Remove the foil in the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow the skin to brown.

Serving

Let the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

To keep the turkey juicy, avoid opening the oven too often while cooking. Baked turkey can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through.