Introduction
Hey there, readers! Thanksgiving is upon us, and the star of the show is undoubtedly the turkey. For those of you who prefer the juicy, flavorful goodness of the Thanksgiving turkey breast, I’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into some mouthwatering Instant Pot turkey breast recipes that will have your guests clamoring for more.
Section 1: Instant Pot Turkey Breast Perfection
1.1 Classic Roasted Turkey Breast
The timeless classic, roasted turkey breast in the Instant Pot, is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Season your turkey breast generously with salt and pepper, add some chopped onions and carrots to the pot, and let the Instant Pot do its magic. In no time, you’ll have a perfectly browned, tender turkey breast that will be the centerpiece of your Thanksgiving table.
1.2 Herbed Turkey Breast with Root Vegetables
For a more flavorful twist, try herbing up your turkey breast before cooking it in the Instant Pot. Add a generous coating of herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage to the turkey breast, nestle it on a bed of root vegetables like carrots, celery, and parsnips, and let the aromas fill your kitchen. The result is a juicy, bursting-with-flavor turkey breast that will leave everyone craving seconds.
Section 2: Flavorful Marinades for a Thanksgiving Treat
2.1 Brined Turkey Breast for Extra Juiciness
Brining your turkey breast overnight is an excellent way to ensure extra juiciness. Submerge the turkey breast in a brine solution of salt, sugar, and spices, and let it soak for several hours. When you cook the turkey breast in the Instant Pot, the brine solution will penetrate the meat, resulting in a succulent, tender result.
2.2 Dry Rubbed Turkey Breast with a Kick
If you’re pressed for time, a dry rub is a quick and flavorful alternative to brining. Create a flavorful spice blend using herbs, spices, and a touch of heat. Apply the rub generously to the turkey breast, let it rest in the refrigerator for a few hours, and then cook it in the Instant Pot. You’ll have a crispy, flavorful turkey breast that will tantalize your taste buds.
Section 3: Thanksgiving Turkey Breast Sides for a Complete Meal
3.1 Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Brussels Sprouts
Complement your Instant Pot turkey breast with a delectable side dish of roasted sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts. Simply toss the vegetables in some olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them in the oven alongside the turkey breast. The sweet potatoes will become soft and caramelized, while the Brussels sprouts will develop a crispy, slightly bitter note.
3.2 Creamy Mashed Potatoes for a Comforting Addition
No Thanksgiving meal is complete without creamy, fluffy mashed potatoes. Peel and boil potatoes until soft, then mash them with butter, milk, and seasonings to your liking. The velvety texture and comforting flavor will perfectly accompany your Instant Pot turkey breast.
Section 4: Instant Pot Turkey Breast Cooking Chart
| Cooking Time (minutes) | Amount of Turkey Breast | Pressure Level |
|---|---|---|
| 20-25 | 1-2 pounds | High |
| 25-30 | 2-3 pounds | High |
| 30-35 | 3-4 pounds | High |
| 35-40 | 4-5 pounds | High |
Conclusion
Readers, I hope these Instant Pot Thanksgiving turkey breast recipes have inspired you to create a memorable meal for your loved ones. Whether you prefer classic roasts or flavorful marinades, the Instant Pot makes it easy to achieve perfection. Don’t forget to check out our other articles for more Thanksgiving inspiration. Happy holidays!
FAQ about Thanksgiving Turkey Breast Recipes Instant Pot
Q: How much turkey breast should I use?
A: For a 4-6 pound turkey breast, use a 6-quart Instant Pot. For a 7-8 pound turkey breast, use an 8-quart Instant Pot.
Q: How long do I cook the turkey breast for?
A: The cooking time will vary depending on the size of the turkey breast. For a 4-6 pound turkey breast, cook on high pressure for 10 minutes per pound. For a 7-8 pound turkey breast, cook on high pressure for 12 minutes per pound.
Q: How do I know when the turkey breast is done cooking?
A: The internal temperature of the turkey breast should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit. You can check the temperature using a meat thermometer.
Q: What liquids can I use to cook the turkey breast?
A: You can use a variety of liquids to cook the turkey breast, such as chicken broth, vegetable broth, water, apple juice, or white wine.
Q: Can I add vegetables to the Instant Pot along with the turkey breast?
A: Yes, you can add vegetables to the Instant Pot along with the turkey breast. Some popular vegetables to add include carrots, celery, onions, and potatoes.
Q: How do I make gravy from the turkey drippings?
A: To make gravy from the turkey drippings, first remove the turkey breast from the Instant Pot and set it aside. Then, strain the cooking liquid into a bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and cold water to form a slurry. Gradually add the slurry to the cooking liquid, whisking constantly. Bring the gravy to a boil and cook until thickened. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Q: Can I make a turkey breast in the Instant Pot ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make a turkey breast in the Instant Pot ahead of time. Allow the turkey breast to cool completely, then store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the turkey breast in the Instant Pot with a little bit of water and cook on high pressure for 5 minutes.
Q: Can I freeze a turkey breast cooked in the Instant Pot?
A: Yes, you can freeze a turkey breast cooked in the Instant Pot. Allow the turkey breast to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To thaw, place the turkey breast in the refrigerator overnight.
Q: How do I reheat a turkey breast cooked in the Instant Pot?
A: To reheat a turkey breast cooked in the Instant Pot, place it in the Instant Pot with a little bit of water and cook on high pressure for 5 minutes. You can also reheat the turkey breast in the oven or microwave.
Q: What are some tips for making the best turkey breast in the Instant Pot?
A: Here are some tips for making the best turkey breast in the Instant Pot:
- Use a fresh or thawed turkey breast.
- Season the turkey breast with your favorite herbs and spices.
- Cook the turkey breast on high pressure for the correct amount of time.
- Let the turkey breast rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
- Serve the turkey breast with your favorite gravy and sides.
