Roasted Turkey Breast with Apple Cider Gravy

Name: Roasted Turkey Breast with Apple Cider Gravy: A Must-Try!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-488865H8M52S
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (4-5 pound) turkey breast; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 cup apple cider; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 cup chicken broth

Posted on October 4, 2025

Evening Meals

Introduction to Roasted Turkey Breast with Apple Cider Gravy

As a busy mom, I know how challenging it can be to whip up a meal that feels special yet doesn’t take all day. That’s where this Roasted Turkey Breast with Apple Cider Gravy comes in! It’s a delightful dish that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy family dinner. The juicy turkey paired with the sweet and tangy apple cider gravy is sure to impress your loved ones. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the moment and less time in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Roasted Turkey Breast with Apple Cider Gravy

This Roasted Turkey Breast with Apple Cider Gravy is a game-changer for busy families. It’s not just about the taste—though trust me, it’s delicious! The ease of preparation means you can have a stunning meal on the table without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the apple cider gravy adds a unique twist that elevates the dish, making it perfect for any occasion. Your family will be asking for seconds!

Ingredients for Roasted Turkey Breast with Apple Cider Gravy

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating a memorable meal. For this Roasted Turkey Breast with Apple Cider Gravy, you’ll need a few key components that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

Turkey Breast: A 4-5 pound turkey breast is perfect for roasting. It’s juicy and tender, making it the star of your meal.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps the seasonings stick. Plus, it gives the turkey a lovely golden color.
Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the turkey. Don’t skip these!
Garlic Powder: A sprinkle of garlic powder brings a savory depth to the dish. It’s a must for flavor lovers.
Onion Powder: This adds a subtle sweetness and complexity, complementing the turkey perfectly.
Apple Cider: The star of the gravy! It adds a sweet and tangy flavor that pairs wonderfully with turkey.
Butter: Used in the gravy, it adds richness and a silky texture.
All-Purpose Flour: This is key for thickening the gravy, giving it that perfect consistency.
Chicken Broth: It adds depth to the gravy and balances the sweetness of the apple cider.

For those looking to mix things up, consider brining the turkey overnight for extra flavor and moisture. You can also adjust the seasonings to suit your family’s taste. If you’re in a pinch, feel free to use store-bought gravy as a shortcut!

Exact measurements for these ingredients can be found at the bottom of the article, ready for printing. Happy cooking!

How to Make Roasted Turkey Breast with Apple Cider Gravy

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the steps for making this Roasted Turkey Breast with Apple Cider Gravy. I promise it’s easier than you think! Follow along, and soon you’ll have a delicious meal that will wow your family.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your turkey cooks evenly. A hot oven helps to lock in moisture, giving you that juicy turkey we all crave. So, don’t skip this step!

Step 2: Prepare the Turkey Breast

Next, pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up beautifully. Now, rub it all over with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Make sure to get into all the nooks and crannies! This seasoning mix will create a flavorful crust that enhances the turkey’s natural taste.

Step 3: Roast the Turkey

Place the seasoned turkey breast in a roasting pan, skin side up. Roast it in the preheated oven for about 1.5 to 2 hours. The key is to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. You want it to reach 165°F (74°C) for safe eating. If the skin starts to brown too much, cover it loosely with foil.

Step 4: Let it Rest

Once your turkey is done roasting, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes. This step is essential! Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making each slice tender and juicy. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Step 5: Make the Apple Cider Gravy

While the turkey rests, let’s whip up that delicious apple cider gravy. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking it for about a minute. Gradually add the apple cider and chicken broth, whisking until smooth. Cook until the gravy thickens, stirring frequently. This gravy is the perfect complement to your turkey!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Now it’s time to plate your masterpiece! Slice the turkey breast and arrange it on a serving platter. Drizzle the apple cider gravy over the top, and don’t be shy—there’s never too much gravy! Serve it warm, and watch your family’s faces light up with joy. Enjoy every bite!

Tips for Success

Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your turkey is cooked perfectly.
Letting the turkey rest is key for juicy slices—don’t rush this step!
For extra flavor, consider brining the turkey overnight.
Feel free to customize the seasoning to suit your family’s taste preferences.
Save any leftover gravy for delicious sandwiches the next day!

Equipment Needed

Roasting Pan: A sturdy roasting pan is essential. If you don’t have one, a large baking dish works too.
Meat Thermometer: This ensures your turkey is cooked to perfection. A simple kitchen thermometer will do the trick.
Whisk: Perfect for making the gravy. A fork can work in a pinch!
Cutting Board: A good cutting board is vital for slicing the turkey.

Variations

Herb-Infused Turkey: Add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage to the seasoning mix for an aromatic twist.
Apple Cider Brine: Brine the turkey in apple cider with salt and spices overnight for extra flavor and moisture.
Maple Glaze: Drizzle a mixture of maple syrup and Dijon mustard over the turkey before roasting for a sweet and tangy glaze.
Gluten-Free Gravy: Use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken the gravy, making it suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the seasoning for a subtle heat that complements the sweetness of the apple cider.

Serving Suggestions

Classic Sides: Pair your turkey with mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, or cranberry sauce for a traditional feast.
Refreshing Salad: A crisp apple and spinach salad adds a light touch to balance the meal.
Perfect Drink: Serve with a chilled glass of apple cider or a light white wine for a delightful pairing.
Presentation: Garnish the platter with fresh herbs and apple slices for a beautiful touch.

FAQs about Roasted Turkey Breast with Apple Cider Gravy

Can I use a frozen turkey breast for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking. This ensures even cooking and juicy results.

How do I know when the turkey is done?

The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast for safe eating.

Can I make the apple cider gravy ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the gravy in advance and reheat it gently on the stove before serving. Just whisk in a little extra broth if it thickens too much.

What can I do with leftover turkey?

Leftover turkey is perfect for sandwiches, salads, or even turkey soup! Get creative and enjoy the flavors in new ways.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend to thicken the gravy without any gluten.

Final Thoughts

Cooking this Roasted Turkey Breast with Apple Cider Gravy is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories around the dinner table. The aroma of the turkey roasting fills your home with warmth, inviting everyone to gather and share stories. Each bite of tender turkey paired with the rich, flavorful gravy brings smiles and satisfaction. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a simple family dinner, this dish is sure to become a cherished favorite. So roll up your sleeves, embrace the joy of cooking, and let this recipe bring your family together in delicious harmony!