Thanksgiving is right around the corner, and if you’re like many people, you’re probably wondering how long to cook a 5 pound turkey breast. Well, look no further because we’ve got you covered with all the details you need to know.
Turkey is a versatile protein that can be cooked in a variety of ways, from roasting to grilling to slow cooking. But if you’re looking for the best way to cook a 5 pound turkey breast, roasting is the way to go. Roasting a turkey breast ensures that the meat is juicy and flavorful, with a golden brown skin.
The amount of time it takes to roast a 5 pound turkey breast depends on a few factors, including the type of oven you’re using and the temperature you’re cooking at. Generally, you can expect to roast a 5 pound turkey breast for about 1 ½ to 2 hours in a 350 degree Fahrenheit oven.
If you’re unsure if your turkey breast is cooked enough, you can use a digital thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meat. The internal temperature of the turkey breast should be 165°F for it to be considered safe to eat.
The following table provides a breakdown of the approximate roasting time for a 5 pound turkey breast:
Cooking Time for 5 Pound Turkey Breast
| Oven Temperature | Cooking Time (minutes) |
|---|---|
| 325°F | 140 – 160 |
| 350°F | 120 – 140 |
| 375°F | 100 – 120 |
| 400°F | 80 – 100 |
Once the turkey is cooked, it’s important to let it rest before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring that it stays juicy and flavorful. Let the turkey rest for at least 10 minutes before carving.
When roasting a turkey breast, it’s also important to use a roasting pan with a rack to ensure even cooking. You can also add a few tablespoons of butter or olive oil to keep the turkey breast from drying out.
Finally, be sure to check the internal temperature of the turkey breast with a digital thermometer to make sure it’s cooked to 165°F. This is the only way to know for sure that your turkey breast is safe to eat.
So if you’re wondering how long to cook a 5 pound turkey breast, you can expect to roast it for 1 ½ to 2 hours in a 350 degree Fahrenheit oven. Just remember to use a digital thermometer to check the internal temperature to make sure it’s cooked through.
And don’t forget the classic Thanksgiving song lyric: “Baste the turkey, baste the turkey, baste the turkey ’til it’s done!” Happy cooking!
