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Budget-Friendly Herb Roasted Turkey Breast with Gravy

budget-friendly herb roasted turkey breast - featured image

A budget-friendly herb butter roasted turkey breast with pan gravy that tastes like a special occasion but is perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe uses simple ingredients to create a juicy, flavorful turkey with crispy skin and a rich, savory gravy.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 bone-in, skin-on turkey breast (about 4–5 pounds, or 1.8–2.3 kg)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth (or turkey broth)
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take the turkey breast out of the fridge and let it sit on the counter for 20 minutes. Pat it dry with paper towels.
  2. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mash together with a fork until well mixed.
  3. Rub the olive oil all over the turkey breast. Gently loosen the skin from the meat, being careful not to tear it. Spread about two-thirds of the herb butter directly onto the meat under the skin, then spread the remaining butter all over the outside of the skin.
  4. Place the turkey breast skin-side up in a roasting pan. Roast for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) when inserted into the thickest part of the breast. If the skin is browning too quickly, tent loosely with foil for the last 15 minutes.
  5. Transfer the turkey to a cutting board, tent with foil, and let rest for 15 minutes.
  6. While the turkey rests, set the roasting pan over medium heat on the stovetop (or scrape drippings into a small saucepan). Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly pour in the chicken broth and wine (if using), whisking constantly. Let simmer for 3-4 minutes until thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Slice the turkey against the grain and serve with gravy.

Notes

Don’t skip the resting step; it keeps the meat juicy. Use a thermometer to avoid overcooking. If the gravy is lumpy, strain it through a fine-mesh strainer. For a gluten-free version, substitute cornstarch for flour. The herb butter can be made up to 3 days ahead.

Nutrition

Keywords: turkey breast, herb butter, roasted turkey, budget-friendly, gravy, weeknight dinner, family meal