How to Cook a Juicy, Perfectly Roasted 9-lb Turkey Breast

How to Cook a 9-pound 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 9-pound turkey breast, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of cooking a 9-pound 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 turkey cook or you’re just getting started, read on for all the information you need to cook a delicious 9-pound turkey breast.

Step Instructions Time
1 Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). 15 minutes
2 Rinse the turkey breast and pat dry with paper towels. 5 minutes
3 Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan. 5 minutes
4 Cover the turkey breast with aluminum foil. 5 minutes
5 Roast the turkey breast for 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F (74 degrees C). 2 hours
6 Let the turkey breast rest for 15 minutes before carving. 15 minutes

Choosing the Right Turkey Breast

When choosing a turkey breast for your next holiday meal, there are a few factors to consider.

Size

The size of the turkey breast will depend on how many people you are feeding. A general rule of thumb is to plan for 1 pound of turkey breast per person. However, if you have some big eaters in your family, you may want to err on the side of caution and get a larger turkey breast.

Type of turkey breast

There are two main types of turkey breasts: bone-in and boneless. Bone-in turkey breasts are more flavorful, but they can be more difficult to cook evenly. Boneless turkey breasts are easier to cook, but they can be dry if not cooked properly.

Fresh vs. frozen

Fresh turkey breasts are typically more flavorful than frozen turkey breasts. However, frozen turkey breasts are more convenient, and they can be just as delicious if they are thawed properly and cooked correctly.

Here are some additional tips for choosing the right turkey breast:

* Look for a turkey breast that is plump and evenly shaped.
* Avoid turkey breasts that have any bruises, cuts, or tears.
* The skin should be smooth and free of blemishes.
* The meat should be firm and pink, with no signs of graying.

Preparing the Turkey Breast

Before you can cook your turkey breast, you need to prepare it. This includes thawing, brining, and marinating.

Thawing

If you are using a frozen turkey breast, you will need to thaw it before you can cook it. The best way to thaw a turkey breast is to place it in the refrigerator for 24-48 hours. You can also thaw a turkey breast in the microwave, but this is not recommended because it can dry out the meat.

Brining

Brining is a process of soaking the turkey breast in a saltwater solution. This helps to add flavor and moisture to the meat. To brine a turkey breast, you will need to mix 1 gallon of water with 1 cup of salt and 1/2 cup of sugar. Bring the brine to a boil, then let it cool completely. Place the turkey breast in the brine and refrigerate for 12-24 hours.

Marinating

Marinating is another way to add flavor to your turkey breast. To marinate a turkey breast, you will need to mix together a marinade of your choice. You can use a store-bought marinade, or you can make your own. Some popular marinades include:

* Italian dressing
* Teriyaki sauce
* Honey mustard sauce
* Lemon-pepper marinade

Marinate the turkey breast for 4-6 hours, or overnight.

Cooking the Turkey Breast

Once your turkey breast is thawed and prepared, you are ready to cook it. There are a few different ways to cook a turkey breast, but the most common methods are roasting, grilling, and smoking.

Roasting

To roast a turkey breast, you will need to preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan and rub it with olive oil. Season the turkey breast with salt and pepper, and then roast it for 1-1 1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Grilling

To grill a turkey breast, you will need to preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the turkey breast on the grill and cook it for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Smoking

To smoke a turkey breast, you will need to preheat your smoker to 225 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the turkey breast in the smoker and cook it for 4-6 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Here are some tips for cooking a turkey breast:

* Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey breast. The turkey breast is done when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
* Baste the turkey breast with melted butter or olive oil every 30 minutes to keep it moist.
* Let the turkey breast rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing it. This will allow the juices to redistribute and the meat to be more tender.

Cooking a turkey breast for your holiday meal can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. By following these tips, you can cook a delicious and juicy turkey breast that everyone

Ingredients

* 9-pound turkey breast, bone-in and skin-on
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1 teaspoon onion powder
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
* 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
* 1/4 cup dry white wine
* 1/4 cup chicken broth
* 1 bay leaf
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
* 1 teaspoon dried sage

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C).
2. Rinse the turkey breast and pat it dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Rub the mixture all over the turkey breast.
4. Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan. Pour the melted butter, apple cider vinegar, white wine, chicken broth, bay leaf, thyme, rosemary, and sage into the pan.
5. Cover the pan with aluminum foil. Roast the turkey breast for 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F (74 degrees C).
6. Remove the turkey breast from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.

Tips

* To ensure that the turkey breast is cooked evenly, make sure to roast it at a low temperature for a long period of time.
* Baste the turkey breast with the pan juices every 30 minutes to keep it moist.
* If you prefer a crispy skin, remove the aluminum foil from the pan for the last 30 minutes of cooking.
* Let the turkey breast rest for at least 10 minutes before carving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Variations

* For a more flavorful turkey breast, marinate it in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for several hours or overnight before cooking.
* Stuff the turkey breast with your favorite stuffing before roasting.
* Serve the turkey breast with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, green beans, and cranberry sauce.

Conclusion

A perfectly cooked turkey breast is a delicious and impressive centerpiece for any holiday meal. By following these tips, you can be sure to create a moist, flavorful, and juicy turkey breast that everyone will love.

How long does it take to cook a 9 lb turkey breast?

A 9 lb turkey breast will take approximately 3 hours to cook at 325 degrees Fahrenheit.

What temperature should I cook a 9 lb turkey breast to?

The USDA recommends cooking a turkey breast to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

What is the best way to cook a 9 lb turkey breast?

There are many ways to cook a 9 lb turkey breast, but some of the most popular methods include roasting, baking, and frying.

What are some tips for cooking a 9 lb turkey breast?

Here are a few tips for cooking a 9 lb turkey breast:

* Start by brining the turkey breast in a salt water solution for several hours or overnight. This will help to keep the meat moist and flavorful.
* Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit.
* Rub the turkey breast with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
* Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan and cook for 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
* Let the turkey breast rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

What are some common mistakes people make when cooking a 9 lb turkey breast?

Some common mistakes people make when cooking a 9 lb turkey breast include:

* Not brining the turkey breast. This can result in a dry, tough turkey breast.
* Cooking the turkey breast at too high of a temperature. This can cause the turkey breast to dry out.
* Not letting the turkey breast rest before slicing and serving. This can cause the turkey breast to be tough and chewy.

What are some side dishes that go well with a 9 lb turkey breast?

Some side dishes that go well with a 9 lb turkey breast include:

* Mashed potatoes
* Stuffing
* Gravy
* Green beans
* Cranberry sauce
* Yams

How much does it cost to cook a 9 lb turkey breast?

The cost of cooking a 9 lb turkey breast will vary depending on the price of the turkey breast, the cost of the ingredients for the stuffing and gravy, and the cost of the electricity to cook the turkey breast. However, you can expect to spend around $20-$30 to cook a 9 lb turkey breast.

cooking a 9 lb turkey breast can be a daunting task, but it is definitely doable with the right tools and techniques. By following the tips in this blog post, you can be sure that your turkey will come out juicy and delicious every time. So what are you waiting for? Get cooking!

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!