How Long to Cook a 7lb Turkey Breast at 325°F

Cooking a juicy and flavorful turkey breast can seem daunting but it’s easier than you think with the right technique. A 7 pound bone-in turkey breast will take about 2 hours and 30 minutes to reach perfection when roasted at 325°F.

Why 325°F is the Ideal Roasting Temperature

Roasting the turkey breast at a low temperature of 325°F allows the meat to cook gently all the way through without drying out. High heat can cause the delicate breast meat to toughen and turn dry. Cooking low and slow gives you the most tender, succulent meat possible.

Aim for 20-25 minutes per pound when cooking a turkey breast This timing can vary a bit depending on the shape and thickness of your particular breast, The most accurate way to know when it’s done is by using a meat thermometer

How to Prep and Roast a Turkey Breast

Before roasting, it’s important to remove the turkey breast from the packaging and pat it completely dry, inside and out. Any moisture on the skin will cause it to steam rather than crisp up.

Make a flavorful compound butter by mixing softened butter with garlic, herbs, lemon, and seasoning. Gently loosen the skin from the breast meat and rub the herb butter all underneath. This infuses incredible flavor into the meat. Smooth the skin back over the butter.

Place the seasoned turkey breast into a roasting pan or baking dish skin-side up. Roast uncovered at 325°F for the estimated cooking time, based on the weight. For a 7 pound breast, plan on around 2 hours and 30 minutes.

After the first hour of cooking, baste the turkey breast with some of the pan juices. This helps keep the skin from drying out.

Use a Meat Thermometer for Perfect Results

Cooking times are always a rough estimate since every turkey breast varies in shape and thickness. The only way to accurately know when it’s done is to use an instant-read meat thermometer.

Test the temperature by inserting the probe into the thickest part of the breast, without touching any bones. The ideal finishing temperature is 165°F. When it reaches 160°F, remove it from the oven and tent with foil for 10-15 minutes before slicing. The temperature will continue rising as it rests.

If using a meat thermometer, start checking the temperature about 20-30 minutes before the estimated cook time. This ensures you don’t overcook the breast if it cooks faster than expected.

Let It Rest Before Carving

Never skip the important resting period once the turkey comes out of the oven! Letting it sit allows the juices that have been driven to the center during cooking to redistribute back into the meat.

If you cut into turkey straight from the oven, it will release all those delicious juices onto the cutting board rather than back into the meat where they belong. Resting helps ensure tender, juicy meat.

After resting 10-15 minutes, transfer the turkey breast to a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to slice the meat against the grain into perfect slices for serving.

Flavorful Herb Options

While basic poultry seasoning is always a solid choice for turkey, you can get creative with the herb butter flavor. Consider using:

• Fresh rosemary, sage, and thyme
• Lemon zest and garlic
• Curry powder, cumin, and ginger
• Italian herbs like oregano, basil, and parsley

Rubbing bold seasonings and spices under the skin infuses the meat with delicious flavor in every bite without overpowering.

##Make Delicious Gravy

Once the turkey breast is cooked, don’t discard those flavorful pan drippings and browned bits stuck to the bottom! Use them to make an easy yet decadent turkey gravy to serve alongside your roast turkey.

The drippings already have so much built-in flavor from the turkey juices and herb butter. Simply whisk in some flour to thicken, then pour in broth and simmer until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.

Serving Suggestions

A roasted turkey breast is extremely versatile. Serve slices on their own, add to sandwiches or salads, pair it with your favorite Thanksgiving sides, or top a salad or pizza!

Some tasty options:

• Turkey, brie, and cranberry sauce sandwich
• Turkey club wrap with bacon, avocado, lettuce, and tomato
• Turkey salad with dried cranberries, celery, and pecans
• Slice over mixed greens, drizzle with balsamic for an easy salad
• Add to a pizza with pesto, tomatoes, and mozzarella

With the simple method of roasting low and slow at 325°F until it reaches 165°F, you’ll have tender, juicy turkey breast that’s infused with incredible flavor. A 7 pound turkey breast will take right around 2 hours and 30 minutes using this technique.