How Long to Cook a Stuffed Turkey Breast for a Perfectly Juicy Bird

Cooking a stuffed turkey breast can be an intimidating task. With its thick, dense meat and deliciously savory filling, getting the doneness just right takes a bit of finesse. Undercook it and you’ll have a raw interior. Overcook it and you’ll end up with an undesirably dry breast. However, armed with the right techniques and cooking times, you’ll have a beautifully bronzed, incredibly moist and utterly delicious stuffed turkey breast everyone will rave about.

Keys for Successfully Cooking Stuffed Turkey Breast

There are a few key factors that will ensure your stuffed turkey breast turns out perfectly cooked

• Weight Matters – Cooking time is primarily determined by the weight of the turkey breast. For stuffed turkey breasts allow about 15 minutes per pound, plus an additional 20 minutes. For a 5 pound breast, plan on cooking for about 1 hour and 20 minutes.

• Use a Meat Thermometer – The most foolproof way to test doneness is by using an instant read meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of breast, taking care not to hit the bone. It should register 165°F when done.

• Let It Rest – Allowing the cooked breast to rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing is crucial. The internal temperature will continue to rise 5-10° during this time, ensuring it is cooked through. Plus, resting prevents juicy moisture from escaping when you cut into it.

• Choose the Right Stuffing – Stuffing adds flavor but also affects cook time. Use a tried and true recipe with a good ratio of bread to meat and veggies to prevent dense spots. Chill stuffing before using.

• Prep the Breast – Pound to an even thickness before stuffing so it cooks evenly. Tie kitchen string around breast at 2 inch intervals to maintain shape.

Step-By-Step Guide for Roasting Stuffed Turkey Breast

Follow this simple process for roasting up the most tender, delicious stuffed turkey breast:

1. Make the Stuffing

Choose your favorite stuffing recipe. Cook sausage, veggies and herbs first before combining with bread, broth and egg. Chill completely before using.

2. Prepare the Turkey Breast

Rinse breast and pat dry. Lay skin side down. Cut horizontally to open but not all the way through. Cover with plastic wrap and pound to 1⁄2 inch thickness.

3. Fill the Breast

Spoon chilled stuffing onto breast, leaving 1 inch border. Starting at short end, roll up breast. Tie kitchen string around rolled breast at 2 inch intervals. Trim excess string.

4. Sear the Breast

Heat oil in skillet. Sear breast on all sides until nicely browned. This helps render fat and enhances flavor.

5. Roast the Stuffed Breast

Place seared breast on rack in roasting pan. Roast at 350°F for 15 minutes per pound, plus 20 minutes. Baste occasionally with pan juices.

6. Test for Doneness

After minimum cook time, begin checking temperature in thickest part with meat thermometer until 165°F. If done, remove from oven.

7. Allow to Rest

Loosely tent breast with foil and let rest 15 minutes before removing string and slicing. The internal temperature will rise to 170°F.

8. Carve and Serve

Transfer breast to cutting board and slice into 1⁄2 inch pieces. Serve warm with pan gravy and your favorite sides!

When prepared properly, stuffed turkey breast makes for an incredibly impressive yet easy to make entree. Follow these tips and exact cook times for a foolproof turkey breast bursting with flavorful stuffing in under 2 hours.