How to Cook a Perfect Butterball 3lb Turkey Breast

A juicy, tender turkey breast makes for a delicious entree any time of year. For ease and convenience Butterball pre-brined turkey breasts take the guesswork out of preparing this tasty cut of meat. With a few simple steps you can roast a flawless buttery, moist 3lb Butterball turkey breast right in your own oven.

Below we’ll explain everything you need to know to cook a Butterball 3lb turkey breast to perfection including

• Recommended oven roasting times and temperature
• Should you brine or stuff a 3lb breast?
• Helpful prep tips before cooking
• Seasoning and flavoring ideas
• Basting and roasting techniques
• How to tell when it’s fully cooked
• Letting it rest before slicing into it
• Serving suggestions and leftover ideas

Follow this easy guide for golden, juicy turkey breast success every time!

Oven Roasting Times for a 3lb Butterball Turkey Breast

Butterball provides recommended roasting times for their pre-brined bone-in turkey breasts based on size. For a 3lb breast, they advise roasting:

• 1 1⁄2 – 2 hours at 325°F

This low and slow roasting method allows the breast to cook evenly to the center without drying out.

For a boneless 3lb breast, the roasting time is slightly less at 1 1⁄4 – 1 1⁄2 hours at 325°F. An instant-read thermometer is the best way to test for doneness.

Should You Brine or Stuff It?

Since Butterball turkey breasts are pre-brined, there’s no need to brine them yourself before cooking. The brining solution helps season the meat and keeps it nice and moist.

Stuffing is also not necessary for boneless turkey breasts. Mix your favorite stuffing recipe separately in a baking dish to enjoy alongside the sliced turkey.

Prepping a 3lb Butterball Breast for the Oven

Here are a few simple steps to prep the turkey breast before roasting:

• Thaw completely if frozen
• Pat dry with paper towels
• Loosen skin and rub oil underneath
• Coat skin with oil or butter
• Season outside with salt, pepper and herbs
• Place on a rack in a roasting pan, add 1 cup broth

This prep promotes even cooking and crispy, well-browned skin.

Seasoning and Flavoring Ideas

While Butterball turkey breasts are pre-seasoned, you can add more flavor with:

• Herbs under the skin: rosemary, thyme, sage
• Spice rubs on the skin: chili powder, paprika, garlic powder
• Aromatics inside the cavity: onion, lemon, garlic
• Basting liquids: chicken broth, wine, olive oil

Get creative with cajun seasoning, Italian herbs, citrus, brown sugar — the options are endless!

Basting and Roasting Techniques

Use these roasting tips for superbly moist turkey breast:

• Roast at 325°F on lower oven rack
• Baste every 30 minutes with broth
• Tent with foil to prevent over-browning
• Use a meat thermometer to check temp
• Cook to 165°F internal temperature

Basting keeps the meat succulent while roasting uncovered at the end crisps up the skin.

How to Tell When It’s Fully Cooked

Check for these signs your Butterball turkey breast is done:

• Internal temp reaches 165°F
• Juices run clear when pierced
• Meat near bone may be slightly pink
• Firm to the touch, not overly squishy

Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing for the juices to absorb back into the meat.

Slicing and Serving Suggestions

Once rested, carve the turkey breast into thin slices. Serve alongside classic holiday favorites like mashed potatoes, stuffing, roast veggies and cranberry sauce for a festive meal.

Or slice it over a salad for an easy weeknight dinner option. Other delicious ways to serve your roasted Butterball turkey breast include:

• Turkey sandwiches with cheese, lettuce and mayo
• Turkey tacos or nachos topped with fixings
• Turkey club sandwich layered with bacon and tomato
• Turkey quesadillas or flatbread pizzas
• Hearty turkey chili or soup

Creative Leftover Turkey Ideas

Put leftover turkey breast to good use in yummy recipes like:

• Turkey casseroles or pot pies
• Diced in salads, rice bowls or wraps
• Simmered in pasta dishes like turkey tetrazzini
• Added to omelets, frittatas or breakfast hash
• On top of pizza, in sandwiches and more

With this easy roasting guide, you’ll turn out a mouthwatering 3lb Butterball turkey breast. Juicy, tender perfection awaits!