The Complete Guide to Cooking a Juicy 7.5 Pound Turkey Breast

Cooking a moist, flavorful turkey breast can seem intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be with the right techniques If you’re planning to cook a 7.5 pound turkey breast, this detailed guide will walk you through everything you need to know for perfect results

How Long Should You Cook a 7.5 Pound Turkey Breast?

The general rule of thumb for cooking turkey breast is to roast it at 325°F for about 15-20 minutes per pound. For a 7.5 pound turkey breast, this equals a total roasting time of 115-150 minutes or 1 hour 55 minutes to 2 hours and 30 minutes.

However, cooking times can vary based on the shape and thickness of the breast, as well as your oven’s accuracy. The best way to ensure your turkey breast is fully cooked is to use an instant-read meat thermometer. The target internal temperature you’re looking for is 165°F. Once it hits this temp, it’s ready to come out of the oven.

Turkey Breast Cooking Time Table

To give you a better idea of the range here are some estimated cooking times for a 7.5 pound bone-in turkey breast based on various temperatures

• 300°F oven – About 2 hours 45 minutes to 3 hours 30 minutes
• 325°F oven – About 2 hours to 2 hours 45 minutes
• 350°F oven – About 1 hour 40 minutes to 2 hours 15 minutes
• 375°F oven – About 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours

As you can see, the cooking time can vary significantly based on the oven temperature. Higher temperatures will yield a shorter cooking time but may result in the breast cooking unevenly. That’s why 325°F is generally recommended.

Step-by-Step Guide for Roasting a Juicy Turkey Breast

Follow these simple steps for foolproof results:

1. Thaw the Turkey Breast

• If frozen, thaw the turkey breast in the refrigerator for 24 hours for every 4-5 pounds. A 7.5 pound breast may take about 2 full days to thaw.

• You can quick thaw it by submerging the wrapped breast in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes until thawed.

2. Dry Brine the Breast

• Dry brining helps seasoned the turkey breast and keeps it super juicy.

• Pat the breast dry and rub it all over with a mixture of 1 teaspoon salt per pound along with pepper and any other desired seasonings.

• Cover and refrigerate overnight or up to 24 hours before roasting.

3. Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 325°F. This temperature ensures even cooking.

4. Prepare a Roasting Pan

• Place a roasting rack in a roasting pan or baking dish. The rack elevates the breast for better airflow.

• You can rub the skin with oil or butter to help crisp it.

5. Roast the Turkey Breast

• Place the breast skin-side up on the roasting rack.

• Roast for approximately 15-20 minutes per pound, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

• For a 7.5 lb breast, this equals a total roasting time of 115-150 minutes.

6. Let It Rest

• Once roasted, remove the pan from the oven and tent the breast loosely with foil.

• Let rest for 15-20 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute evenly.

• Slice and serve warm. Enjoy!

Tips for the Juiciest Turkey Breast

Here are some additional tips to ensure your 7.5 pound turkey breast stays tender and delicious:

• Brine it – Soaking the breast in a saltwater brine before cooking enhances flavor and moisture. Make a brine with 1 cup salt per gallon of water.

• Reduce oven temperature – Cooking at a lower temp (300°F) slows down cooking for a more evenly cooked breast. Add extra cooking time.

• Baste frequently – Baste the breast every 30 minutes with pan drippings or chicken stock. This prevents drying out.

• Insert aromatics – Stuffing herbs, citrus, or onions inside the cavity adds flavor.

• Monitor with a meat thermometer – This removes the guesswork and prevents overcooking.

• Let it rest before slicing – Never slice a hot turkey breast right away. Resting allows juices to redistribute.

Your Most Common Turkey Breast Questions – Answered!

If you’re new to cooking turkey breast, you probably have some questions. Here are answers to the most frequently asked:

Can I cook a frozen turkey breast?

Yes, a frozen breast will take about 50% longer to cook than a thawed one. Closely follow package instructions.

Should I brine or marinate the breast?

Both brining and marinating adds flavorful moisture to the meat. Brining is highly recommended, while marinating is optional.

What’s the best way to thaw a frozen breast?

To safely thaw, leave the turkey in the fridge for 24 hours per 4-5 pounds of weight. You can quick thaw in cold water.

Should I roast the breast on a rack or directly in the pan?

Roasting on a rack allows for better airflow circulation for more even cooking.

How can I keep the breast moist?

Brining, basting, not overcooking, and resting before slicing will all ensure a juicy breast.

Can I use an Instant Pot or slow cooker?

While possible, the skin won’t get crispy. Stick to traditional oven roasting for best results.

What if my breast is over or undercooked?

If undercooked, return to oven until it reaches 165°F internally. If overcooked, slice thin and soak in broth to re-moisten.

How should I store leftover turkey breast?

Once cooled, store leftover turkey breast in the fridge for 3-4 days. Slice or shred the meat and freeze for longer storage.

Creative Ways to Use Leftover Turkey Breast

Leftover roasted turkey breast is incredibly versatile. Here are just a few creative ways to repurpose it:

• Make sandwiches – Layer sliced turkey with cheese, lettuce, tomato, avocado, etc.

• Toss with pasta and vegetables for a turkey pasta salad

• Use in soups like turkey noodle soup or turkey chili

• Make breakfast tacos with scrambled eggs and turkey

• Pile it on flatbread with pesto and veggies for pizza-inspired meal

• Add to salads for extra protein

• Mix with mayo, cranberries, and almonds for a turkey salad sandwich filling

• Make handy turkey sliders on mini buns

• Get creative with casseroles like turkey tetrazzini or turkey pot pie

With endless possibilities, you’ll look forward to leftovers after cooking a juicy 7.5 pound turkey breast!

Mastering the Perfect Turkey Breast

Cooking a moist, delicious 7.5 pound turkey breast is easy when you follow proper technique. Allow enough roasting time, monitor temperature, and rest before slicing for the very best results. Now that you’re armed with all the right tips and info, you can serve up the star of your holiday table with total confidence.