Save to Pinterest This dish features a tender turkey breast infused with fresh lemon juice, zest, and aromatic herbs like rosemary and thyme. Roasted alongside baby potatoes, carrots, and red onion on one sheet pan, it combines vibrant flavors with a simple cooking method. The vegetables absorb the herbs and pan juices creating a harmonious meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Letting the turkey rest after roasting ensures juicy, flavorful slices. Pair it with your favorite light wine for a satisfying finish.
The first time I made this sheet pan turkey, my kitchen smelled like a French bistro on a Sunday morning. I was trying to impress some friends who had dropped by unexpectedly, and honestly, I was nervous about overcooking the meat. But when I pulled that pan from the oven, everything was golden and fragrant, and nobody talked for ten minutes straight because we were all too busy eating.
Last Thanksgiving, I was hosting just four people and didnt want to deal with a whole bird. This turkey breast became the star, and honestly, I think it was better than any full turkey Ive ever made. My aunt actually asked for the recipe before she even finished her plate.
Ingredients
- Boneless turkey breast: Going skinless keeps things lighter but you still want that nice piece of meat thats going to stay juicy
- Olive oil: This carries all those herb flavors right into the meat and helps everything get beautifully golden
- Fresh lemon juice and zest: The bright acidity cuts through the richness and makes everything taste fresher
- Garlic cloves: Minced fine so it disperses evenly throughout the marinade
- Fresh rosemary and thyme: These woody herbs hold up beautifully to roasting and smell incredible
- Salt and black pepper: Simple seasoning that lets the other flavors shine
- Baby potatoes: Halved so they roast through in the same time as the turkey
- Carrots: Cut into sticks that get sweet and tender in the oven
- Red onion: Wedged so it caramelizes nicely and adds color to the pan
Instructions
- Preheat your oven:
- Get it to 400°F and line your largest sheet pan with parchment paper
- Whisk together the marinade:
- Combine the olive oil, lemon juice, zest, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper until fragrant
- Prep the turkey:
- Pat it dry and rub that herb mixture all over, getting into every nook and cranny
- Season the vegetables:
- Toss them with olive oil and salt, then arrange them around the turkey on the pan
- Roast everything:
- Cook for 45 to 55 minutes, giving the vegetables a stir halfway through
- Check and rest:
- Make sure the turkey reaches 165°F inside, then let it sit before slicing into it
Save to Pinterest This recipe has become my go to when I want something that feels special but doesnt require hours of attention. Something about having everything on one pan just makes the whole evening feel more relaxed.
Make Ahead Magic
You can rub the turkey with the herb mixture up to four hours before cooking and keep it in the fridge. I did this once for a dinner party and it made the actual cooking feel effortless.
Vegetable Swaps
Sometimes I use parsnips or Brussels sprouts when the seasons change. Sweet potatoes work beautifully too and add this lovely sweetness that pairs so well with the lemon.
Serving Suggestions
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc cuts right through the richness. I love serving this with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance the roasted vegetables.
- Save those pan juices and drizzle them over the sliced meat
- Garlic bread would not be a mistake here
- Leftovers make incredible sandwiches the next day
Save to Pinterest There is something deeply satisfying about a complete meal that comes together on one pan. It is the kind of dinner that lets you actually enjoy your company instead of being stuck at the stove.
Recipe FAQs
- → What herbs work best with turkey breast?
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Fresh rosemary and thyme complement turkey breast beautifully, adding fragrant, earthy notes that enhance the meat's natural flavor.
- → Can I use other vegetables with this dish?
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Yes, you can substitute baby potatoes and carrots with parsnips, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes for varied textures and flavors.
- → How do I know when the turkey breast is fully cooked?
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Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe and juicy results.
- → Is marinating the turkey breast necessary?
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Marinating up to 4 hours enhances flavor and tenderness but is optional if short on time.
- → What cooking temperature is recommended?
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Roast the turkey and vegetables at 400°F (200°C) for 45–55 minutes until tender and golden.
- → How should the vegetables be prepared for roasting?
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Toss vegetables in olive oil, salt, and pepper to ensure even roasting and enhanced natural sweetness.
