How to Cook a Juicy, Tender 5-lb Turkey Breast

ByMike Thompson Turkey Recipe

How to Cook a 5-lb Turkey Breast

The holidays are coming up, and that means it’s time to start thinking about cooking a turkey. If you’re planning on cooking a 5-lb turkey breast, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of cooking a 5-lb turkey breast, from brining to roasting. We’ll also provide tips on how to make sure your turkey is cooked to perfection.

So whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, read on for all the information you need to cook a delicious and juicy 5-lb turkey breast.

Step Ingredients Instructions
1 5 lb turkey breast Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2 1 tablespoon olive oil Rub the turkey breast with olive oil.
3 1 teaspoon salt Season the turkey breast with salt and pepper.
4 1 teaspoon black pepper Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan.
5 1/2 cup chicken broth Pour the chicken broth into the roasting pan.
6 Cover the roasting pan with aluminum foil. Roast the turkey breast for 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F (74 degrees C).
7 Let the turkey breast rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Introduction

Turkey breast is a delicious and versatile meat that can be cooked in a variety of ways. It is a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, and it is also relatively low in fat. This recipe for cooking a 5-pound turkey breast is simple and straightforward, and it will produce a juicy and flavorful bird that is perfect for a holiday meal or any other special occasion.

Equipment and Ingredients

The following equipment and ingredients are needed to cook a 5-pound turkey breast:

* Large roasting pan
* Meat thermometer
* Roasting rack
* Aluminum foil
* 5-pound turkey breast
* Salt
* Pepper
* Vegetable oil
* Butter
* Herbs (optional)

Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Rinse turkey breast under cold water and pat dry.
3. Season the turkey breast with salt, pepper, and olive oil.
4. Place the turkey breast on a roasting rack in a roasting pan.
5. Cover the turkey breast with aluminum foil.

Cooking

1. Roast the turkey breast for 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Remove the turkey breast from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.

Serving

The turkey breast can be served immediately or sliced and served cold. It can be enjoyed with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, stuffing, green beans, and cranberry sauce.

This recipe for cooking a 5-pound turkey breast is simple and straightforward, and it will produce a juicy and flavorful bird that is perfect for a holiday meal or any other special occasion. So next time you are looking for a delicious and impressive main dish, give this recipe a try!

Here are some additional tips for cooking a 5-pound turkey breast:

* To ensure that the turkey breast is cooked evenly, it is important to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The turkey breast is done cooking when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
* If you are not sure how long to cook the turkey breast, a good rule of thumb is to cook it for 20 minutes per pound.
* If you want to add a flavorful touch to the turkey breast, you can marinate it in a mixture of olive oil, herbs, and spices before cooking.
* You can also baste the turkey breast with butter or olive oil during cooking to help keep it moist.

With these tips, you can easily cook a delicious and juicy 5-pound turkey breast that will impress your guests.

Ingredients

* 5-pound boneless, skinless turkey breast
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
* 1/2 cup chicken broth
* 1/4 cup dry white wine
* 1 tablespoon cornstarch
* 2 tablespoons cold water

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. In a large bowl, combine the turkey breast, olive oil, salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme. Rub the mixture all over the turkey breast.
3. Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan and roast for 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
4. Remove the turkey breast from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.

Carving and Serving

1. Carve the turkey breast into slices and serve immediately.
2. Enjoy!

This is a simple and delicious recipe for cooking a 5-pound turkey breast. The turkey breast is roasted in a flavorful herb and butter mixture, and then served with a delicious gravy. This is a great recipe for a holiday meal or any special occasion.

How long does it take to cook a 5 lb turkey breast?

The cooking time for a 5 lb turkey breast will vary depending on the cooking method you choose. Here are some general guidelines:

* Oven: 2-2.5 hours at 325 degrees F
* Rotisserie: 1.5-2 hours at 350 degrees F
* Smoker: 3-4 hours at 225 degrees F

What temperature should I cook a turkey breast to?

The USDA recommends cooking turkey to an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. This will ensure that the turkey is safe to eat.

What is the best way to cook a 5 lb turkey breast?

There are many different ways to cook a 5 lb turkey breast. Some of the most popular methods include:

* Oven: Roasting a turkey breast in the oven is a classic method that produces juicy and flavorful results.
* Rotisserie: Cooking a turkey breast on a rotisserie is a great way to get evenly cooked meat and crispy skin.
* Smoker: Smoking a turkey breast is a slow and low-temperature method that produces a smoky, flavorful bird.

What are some tips for cooking a 5 lb turkey breast?

Here are some tips for cooking a 5 lb turkey breast:

* Start with a high-quality turkey breast. A good-quality turkey breast will be plump and juicy, with white meat that is firm and pink.
* Preheat your oven to 325 degrees F. This will help to ensure that the turkey breast cooks evenly.
* Rub the turkey breast with olive oil or butter. This will help to keep the meat moist during cooking.
* Season the turkey breast with salt, pepper, and other herbs and spices. This will add flavor to the meat.
* Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan. The roasting pan should be large enough to accommodate the turkey breast without crowding it.
* Cover the turkey breast with aluminum foil. This will help to keep the meat moist during cooking.
* Roast the turkey breast for 2-2.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F.
* Let the turkey breast rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and juicy turkey breast.

What are some common mistakes people make when cooking a 5 lb turkey breast?

Some of the most common mistakes people make when cooking a 5 lb turkey breast include:

* Not starting with a high-quality turkey breast. A good-quality turkey breast will be plump and juicy, with white meat that is firm and pink.
* Not preheating the oven. This will result in uneven cooking and a dry turkey breast.
* Not using enough oil or butter. This will dry out the meat during cooking.
* Not seasoning the turkey breast. This will result in a bland and tasteless turkey breast.
* Not cooking the turkey breast long enough. A turkey breast should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
* Not letting the turkey breast rest before carving. This will result in a dry and tough turkey breast.

What are some ways to make a 5 lb turkey breast more flavorful?

There are many ways to make a 5 lb turkey breast more flavorful, including:

* Rub the turkey breast with a flavorful spice rub. This will add flavor to the meat.
* Marinate the turkey breast in a flavorful marinade. This will tenderize the meat and add flavor.
* Stuff the turkey breast with flavorful ingredients. This will add flavor to the meat and keep it moist during cooking.
* Serve the turkey breast with flavorful sides. This will help to round out the flavor of the meat.

What are some side dishes that go well with a 5 lb turkey breast?

Some of the best side dishes to serve with a 5 lb turkey breast include:

* Mashed potatoes
* Gravy
* Stuffing
* Green bean casserole
* Cranberry sauce
* Yams
* Salad
* Bread rolls

cooking a 5-pound turkey breast is a simple process that can be completed in just a few steps. By following the tips in this article, you can be sure to produce a delicious and juicy turkey breast that will be enjoyed by all of your guests.

Here are a few key takeaways:

* Start by brining the turkey breast in a solution of salt, sugar, and water for several hours or overnight. This will help to keep the meat moist and flavorful.
* Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit and roast the turkey breast for 20 minutes per pound. Be sure to cover the breast with foil during the first half of cooking to prevent it from drying out.
* Let the turkey breast rest for at least 10 minutes before carving it. This will allow the juices to redistribute and the meat to be more tender.

With a little planning and preparation, you can easily cook a 5-pound turkey breast that will be the star of your next holiday meal.

Author Profile

Mike Thompson
Mike Thompson
Hello, fellow turkey enthusiasts! I'm Mike Thompson, a proud resident of the picturesque state of Missouri, renowned for its thriving turkey population and favorable hunting conditions. For over a decade, I've roamed the woods, valleys, and peaks of our beautiful state, learning every nook, cranny, and secret that turkey hunting has to offer. My track record? Well, let's just say I've bagged more turkeys than there are days in November, and each hunt has added a story to my ever-growing book of experiences.

However, as much as I love the thrill of the hunt, what truly fuels my passion is the joy of sharing my knowledge with others. That's why I created this platform. This site is not just a testament to my journey but a beacon for all those who are looking to embark on their own turkey hunting adventures. Whether you're a beginner eager to get started or a seasoned pro seeking advanced tips, you'll find a wealth of information here.

From understanding turkey behavior, tracking techniques, and the best equipment to use, to the do's and don'ts of turkey hunting, this site is a comprehensive guide to all things turkey. So, strap on your boots, pick up your gear, and let's embark on a journey together into the world of turkey hunting. Welcome to my site, and happy hunting!