how long do i cook a butterball turkey breast

How Long Should You Cook a Butterball Turkey Breast?

Butterball turkey breasts are a convenient and delicious alternative to cooking a whole turkey. With their tender white meat and juicy flavor, they make an easy entrée for both small and large gatherings. But to get the best results when cooking a Butterball turkey breast, proper timing is key. So how long should you cook one?

Read on for a complete guide with cooking times, temperatures, tips and tricks for oven roasting Butterball turkey breasts to juicy perfection.

What Size Butterball Turkey Breast Should I Buy?

Butterball offers turkey breasts in a range of sizes from 2 to 6 pounds or larger. The most common sizes are

• 3 pounds: Feeds 4-6 people
• 4 pounds: Feeds 6-8 people
• 5 pounds: Feeds 8-10 people
• 6 pounds: Feeds 10-12 people

Select the appropriate size breast for the number of portions you need. Smaller sizes like 3 pounds are good for Thanksgiving dinner for a smaller gathering or to use in casseroles. Larger sizes like 6 pounds can feed a crowd for a holiday meal.

Thawing a Frozen Butterball Turkey Breast

For the shortest thaw time thaw frozen Butterball turkey breasts in the refrigerator. Place the turkey breast on a tray to catch any drips and let it thaw

• 3 pound breast: 24-36 hours
• 4 pound breast: 36-48 hours
• 5 pound breast: 48-60 hours
• 6 pound breast: 60-72 hours

You can quick thaw a turkey breast in cold water, allowing 30 minutes per pound. Change the water every 30 minutes until thawed.

Never thaw turkey at room temperature, which allows bacteria to grow. Cook from fully frozen if needed.

How Long to Cook a Butterball Turkey Breast

The cooking time for Butterball turkey breasts depends on both the size and whether it is fresh or frozen:

• Fresh 3 pound breast: 1 1⁄4 – 1 1⁄2 hours
• Fresh 4 pound breast: 1 1⁄2 – 1 3⁄4 hours
• Fresh 5 pound breast: 1 3⁄4 – 2 hours
• Fresh 6 pound breast: 2 – 2 1⁄4 hours
• Frozen 3 pound breast: 1 1⁄2 – 1 3⁄4 hours
• Frozen 4 pound breast: 1 3⁄4 – 2 hours
• Frozen 5 pound breast: 2 – 2 1⁄4 hours
• Frozen 6 pound breast: 2 1⁄4 – 2 1⁄2 hours

These times are for cooking at 325°F oven temperature. Always rely on a meat thermometer for doneness, not just the time. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. Let the turkey breast rest 15 minutes before slicing.

Tips for Roasting a Juicy Butterball Turkey Breast

Follow these handy tips for the most tender, juicy and flavorful oven-roasted Butterball turkey breast:

• Pat the thawed breast dry before seasoning. This helps the skin get crispy.

• Brush on olive oil or melted butter. This keeps the turkey breast moist and promotes browning.

• Season under the skin. Rub herbs and spices directly onto the meat before roasting.

• Use an oven-safe rack in a roasting pan. This allows airflow for even cooking.

• Roast at 325°F. The moderate temperature prevents drying out.

• Baste with pan juices every 45 minutes. Basting retains moisture.

• Allow to rest before carving. Letting it rest allows juices to absorb back into the meat.

Get Creative With Leftover Turkey Breast

Leftover roasted turkey breast makes for easy meals all week long. Slice it for sandwiches or get creative with these recipe ideas:

• Dice for salads, soups or casseroles like turkey tetrazzini.

• Shred or chop for turkey chili, tacos, enchiladas or BBQ sliders.

• Pair with greens for an easy turkey and spinach salad.

• Make turkey breast stroganoff with mushrooms and egg noodles.

• Top flatbreads or pizzas with shredded turkey and vegetables.

• Stir turkey breast pieces into rice or quinoa with broth for a fast pilaf.

• Toss with pasta and veggies for a protein-packed pasta bowl.

The Takeaway

When you need an easy and delicious holiday centerpiece, Butterball turkey breasts fit the bill. Cook times range from about 1 1⁄4 hours for a 3 pound breast up to 2 1⁄2 hours for a 6 pounder. Rely on a meat thermometer for doneness, not just the clock. Roast low and slow at 325°F for the most tender texture. Rest before slicing and get ready to enjoy moist, flavorful turkey breast at its very best!