How long to cook a turkey rolled breast
Wondering how long to cook a turkey rolled breast? Look no further! Cooking a turkey rolled breast is a delicious and convenient option for a smaller gathering or for those who prefer white meat.
A turkey rolled breast is a boneless, skinless turkey breast that has been butterflied and rolled into a neat and compact shape. It cooks faster than a whole turkey and is easier to carve, making it a great choice for a stress-free holiday meal.
When cooking a turkey rolled breast, it’s important to take into account its weight and the cooking method you’re using. Generally, a turkey rolled breast will require about 20 to 25 minutes of cooking time per pound when roasted in an oven set at 350°F (175°C).
However, it’s always a good idea to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature of the turkey rolled breast reaches 165°F (74°C), as recommended by the US Department of Agriculture, before calling it done. Remember, the cooking time may vary slightly depending on your oven and the size of the turkey rolled breast, so it’s best to use a meat thermometer to be sure!
Preparing the turkey rolled breast
Preparing the turkey rolled breast involves a few steps to ensure it is cooked to perfection:
- Start by removing the packaging from the turkey rolled breast and rinse it under cold water. Pat it dry with paper towels.
- If desired, you can marinate the turkey rolled breast for a few hours beforehand to enhance the flavor. Prepare a marinade of your choice, such as a combination of olive oil, garlic, herbs, and spices. Place the breast in a resealable plastic bag or a covered container and pour the marinade over it. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Preheat your oven to the appropriate temperature indicated in your recipe or as specified for turkey rolled breast. Most recipes suggest preheating to 325°F (165°C).
- Place the turkey rolled breast on a rack in a roasting pan, with the seam side down. This allows for even cooking and prevents the breast from sticking to the pan.
- Season the breast with salt, pepper, and any additional herbs or spices of your choice. You can also insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the breast, ensuring it doesn’t touch the bone.
- Cover the breast with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out during cooking. Remove the foil during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow the skin to crisp up.
- Roast the turkey rolled breast in the preheated oven for the recommended cooking time. The cooking time will vary depending on the weight of the breast and the recipe you are following. A general guideline is to cook the breast for approximately 20 minutes per pound.
- Check the internal temperature of the breast using a meat thermometer. The turkey rolled breast should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.
- Once the breast is cooked to the appropriate temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a moist and tender turkey rolled breast.
By following these steps, you can prepare a delicious turkey rolled breast that will be the highlight of your meal. Enjoy!
Seasoning the turkey
Seasoning the turkey rolled breast is an essential part of ensuring a flavorful and delicious meal. Here are some tips on how to season your turkey:
- Start by patting your turkey rolled breast dry with paper towels. This will help the seasoning adhere better to the surface.
- Generously season the turkey rolled breast with salt and black pepper. You can also add other herbs and spices such as garlic powder, thyme, rosemary, or sage, depending on your taste preferences.
- Rub the seasoning all over the turkey rolled breast, making sure to cover all sides of the meat.
- If desired, you can also stuff the turkey rolled breast with a flavorful filling, such as a breadcrumb stuffing or a mixture of vegetables and herbs.
- After seasoning, let the turkey rolled breast sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Remember, the seasoning will add depth and flavor to your turkey rolled breast, so don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different herbs and spices. Enjoy your deliciously seasoned turkey rolled breast!
Tying the turkey rolled breast
Once the turkey breast is rolled and stuffed, it is important to secure it with cooking twine to ensure that it maintains its shape while cooking.
To tie the turkey rolled breast, you will need a length of cooking twine and a pair of kitchen scissors.
1. Start by placing the rolled turkey breast on a clean cutting board, with its seam-side down.
2. Cut a length of cooking twine, approximately twice the length of the rolled turkey breast.
3. Slide the twine beneath the turkey breast, about one inch from the end closest to you. Cross the ends of the twine over the top of the turkey breast.
4. Pull the twine tight, securing the ends underneath the turkey breast and holding it together.
5. Continue tying the twine along the length of the turkey breast, spacing the knots evenly, approximately one inch apart.
6. Once you have reached the other end of the turkey breast, tie a final knot to secure the twine.
7. Trim any excess twine with the kitchen scissors.
Tying the turkey rolled breast will help it maintain its shape and ensures that the stuffing stays in place while cooking. It is an important step in preparing a delicious and visually appealing turkey breast.
Cooking the turkey rolled breast
Preparing a turkey rolled breast is a delicious and convenient alternative to cooking a whole turkey. With its boneless nature and a variety of fillings, a turkey rolled breast can be a crowd-pleasing centerpiece for any holiday meal. Here are some guidelines for cooking the turkey rolled breast to perfection.
Thawing the turkey rolled breast
Before cooking the turkey, ensure that it is completely thawed. You can thaw the rolled breast in the refrigerator for 24 hours for every 2 pounds of turkey. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for thawing the turkey rolled breast if provided.
Seasoning and prepping
Once the turkey rolled breast is thawed, it’s time to season and prep it for cooking. You can use a variety of seasonings and herbs to enhance the flavors. Rub the rolled breast with your chosen seasoning mixture, ensuring that it covers the entire surface. Let the turkey sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C) while you prepare the turkey rolled breast.
Cooking the turkey rolled breast
Place the seasoned turkey rolled breast on a rack inside a roasting pan or baking dish. This will elevate the turkey and allow for even cooking. You can also add some chopped vegetables or herbs to the pan for extra flavor.
Cook the turkey rolled breast in the preheated oven, allowing for about 20 minutes of cooking time per pound. It is essential to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the turkey, avoiding contact with any bones. This will ensure that the turkey is fully cooked and safe to eat.
Once the turkey rolled breast reaches the desired internal temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender and juicy slices.
Carve the turkey rolled breast into thin slices and serve with your favorite sides. Enjoy the flavorful and moist turkey rolled breast that is sure to impress your guests!
Roasting the turkey
Roasting a rolled turkey breast is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this lean and tender cut of meat. Follow these steps to ensure a juicy and flavourful turkey:
1. Preparing the turkey
Before roasting the turkey, it is important to properly prepare it. Begin by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the turkey breast on a cutting board and gently unfold it, exposing the inner layers. Season the turkey breast generously with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings. Stuffing can also be added at this stage for added flavor.
2. Tying the turkey
Roll the turkey breast back up tightly and secure it with kitchen twine. This will help the turkey breast maintain its shape during roasting. Make sure to tie the twine securely, as this will prevent the turkey breast from falling apart. Trim any excess twine once the turkey is securely tied.
3. Roasting the turkey
Place the turkey breast on a roasting rack set within a roasting pan. This will elevate the turkey and allow hot air to circulate evenly for an even cooking. Insert an oven-safe meat thermometer into the thickest part of the turkey breast, avoiding contact with bone.
Cook the turkey breast in the preheated oven for approximately 20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste the turkey breast with pan drippings and juices every 30 minutes to ensure a moist and flavorful result.
Once the turkey is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful turkey breast.
With these simple steps, you can roast a turkey breast to perfection, creating a delicious and impressive centerpiece for your Thanksgiving or holiday dinner.
Serving the turkey rolled breast
Once the turkey rolled breast has cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve and enjoy the delicious flavors. Follow these simple steps to ensure a fantastic meal:
1. Resting
After removing the turkey rolled breast from the oven, allow it to rest on a cutting board for about 10-15 minutes. This resting period is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute and the meat to become more tender. Cover the breast loosely with aluminum foil to keep it warm.
2. Carving
Next comes the carving process. To achieve neat and uniform slices, use a sharp carving knife. Begin by removing any kitchen twine that may be securing the breast. Slice across the grain of the meat into thin, even slices.
Pro Tip: For a more aesthetically pleasing presentation, you can remove any excess skin before slicing.
3. Plating
Arrange the carved turkey breast slices on a serving platter or individual plates, ensuring to retain the beautiful shape and texture. Garnish the platter with fresh herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, for added aroma and visual appeal.
Pro Tip: If desired, you can also serve the turkey rolled breast with a flavorful gravy made from the pan drippings for an extra touch of indulgence.
Now that your turkey rolled breast is beautifully presented, sit down with your guests and enjoy a tasty and satisfying meal!