How Many Minutes Per Pound Should I Cook a Turkey Breast?

Cooking a juicy, flavorful turkey breast can seem intimidating, but it’s easier than you think if you follow a few simple guidelines. The most important factor is allowing enough time for the breast to cook through while staying moist and tender. The general rule of thumb is to roast a turkey breast for 18-20 minutes per pound at 350°F.

Why Cooking Time Per Pound Matters

Turkey breasts come in many different sizes, which is why cooking time per pound is so important. An 8-pound breast will take much longer to cook than a 3-pound breast. Cooking for the proper amount of time ensures the breast reaches a safe minimum internal temperature while preventing it from drying out.

If you undercook a turkey breast, it can be dangerous to eat due to bacteria. If you overcook it the meat will be dry and chewy. Using the minutes per pound method helps remove the guesswork and results in a perfectly cooked turkey every time.

Factors That Affect Cook Time

While the general rule is 18-20 minutes per pound there are a few factors that can slightly alter the total cook time

• Bone-in vs Boneless: Bone-in breasts take slightly longer to cook than boneless. Add 5 extra minutes per pound for bone-in.

• Size of Breast: Smaller breasts under 4 pounds may cook faster than larger breasts over 6 pounds. Check temperature early.

• Stuffed vs Unstuffed: Stuffed breasts take longer to cook. Add 10 extra minutes if stuffed.

• Cook Temperature: Lower oven temps of 325°F will increase cooking time. Higher temps like 375°F will decrease it slightly.

• Thickness: Thicker parts of the breast may need more time than thinner areas. Check temps in multiple spots.

• Frozen vs Thawed: Frozen breasts require significantly more time, up to double the minutes per pound.

Step-By-Step Method

Follow these simple steps for foolproof turkey breast every time:

1. Calculate Total Cook Time: Calculate the total cook time by multiplying the weight of your turkey breast by 18-20 minutes per pound. Add any extra time based on the factors above.

2. Preheat Oven to 350°F: This temperature ensures even heating for optimal cooking.

3. Prepare Turkey Breast: Remove giblets from the cavity. Rinse breast and pat dry. Brine if desired.

4. Rub with Oil and Seasonings: Coat outside of breast with oil then sprinkle with salt, pepper, herbs, etc.

5. Place Breast on Rack in Pan: Elevate the breast on a rack in a roasting pan so air can circulate all around.

6. Roast for Calculated Time: Cook at 350°F, checking temperature at minimum time.

7. Check Temperature: Insert a meat thermometer at thickest part without touching bone. It’s done at 165°F.

8. Allow to Rest: Let rest 15+ minutes before slicing for juicy meat.

Helpful Tips and Suggestions

• Truss the breast with kitchen twine to maintain shape.

• Baste periodically with melted butter or turkey drippings.

• Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Oven temps can vary.

• Tent with foil if breast browns too quickly.

• Let rest before carving so juices redistribute.

• Slice against the grain of the meat for tenderness.

• Save drippings to make gravy or freeze for future use.

• Store leftovers in fridge within 2 hours of cooking.

Alternate Cooking Methods

While roasting is most common, turkey breasts can be cooked using alternate methods:

Grilling: Grill over indirect heat for 18-20 minutes per pound with lid closed. Use harder wood like hickory or oak.

Smoking: Smoke at 225-250°F for 25-30 minutes per lb. Use milder wood like apple or cherry.

Sous Vide: Cook 1-2 hours at 140°F then sear. Produces incredibly tender meat.

Air Fryer: Cook at 350°F for 15 minutes per lb, checking often. Add broth to prevent drying.

Slow Cooker: Cook on low for 7-8 hours for boneless breasts. Use caution with stuffing.

Poaching: Gently simmer in broth for 13-15 minutes per lb until 165°F. Creates a moist, delicate texture.

No matter which cooking method you choose, following the minutes per pound rule will help ensure your turkey breast turns out juicy, tender and delicious every time. With the proper prep and cook time, you’ll gain confidence cooking this Thanksgiving centerpiece.