Hey there! If you’ve been searching for the ultimate recipe to wow your holiday guests—or just want to enjoy a stress-free, flavor-packed turkey dinner any night of the week—you’re in for a treat. I lean on my Instant Pot for this turkey breast because it guarantees juicy, tender meat and a perfectly seasoned homemade gravy. Trust me, once you make this, there’s no going back to the oven!
If you’re dreaming of golden slices of turkey smothered in rich, homemade gravy, this recipe is basically a hug on a plate!
### Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Convenient: Done in under an hour, it’s perfect for when you want a special meal minus the marathon cooking session.
- No Oven Required: Saves that prime space for pies, casseroles, or even cookies!
- Juice Galore: Instant Pot pressure cooking keeps the turkey extra moist and flavorful.
- Foolproof Gravy: Say goodbye to lumps with this easy, no-fuss gravy method.
### Ingredients Breakdown
- Turkey Breast (5-6 lbs): Use a bone-in turkey breast for the juiciest, most flavorful results. Boneless works too, just adjust cook time slightly.
- Chicken Broth: The secret to a flavorful cooking liquid that transforms into the perfect base for your gravy.
- Butter: Adds richness to both the turkey and gravy.
- Garlic & Onion: Grated for aromatics, these build layers of flavor.
- Herbs: Fresh thyme, rosemary, and parsley bring an earthy, fragrant touch. Dried can work in a pinch.
- Flour: For thickening that silky gravy. Cornstarch is a gluten-free alternative if needed.
- Seasoning: Salt, pepper, and paprika—you might already have these pantry staples, but they’re key to that golden, savory crust on the turkey.
### Step-by-Step Instructions
Ready to make magic happen? Let’s get started!
- Season the Turkey: Rub the turkey breast with a generous coating of salt, pepper, paprika, and a touch of olive oil. Don’t forget to get under the skin for maximum flavor.
- Sauté Mode: Turn your Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode. Melt a couple of tablespoons of butter and sear the turkey breast, skin-side down, until golden brown. Flip and sear the other side. Remove and set aside.
- Build the Base: Add onion, garlic, and herbs to the pot. Sauté until soft and fragrant, about 2 minutes.
- Pressure Cook: Pour in chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze. Place a trivet in the Instant Pot and set the turkey breast on top. Seal the lid, set to “Pressure Cook” on high for 6 minutes per pound (30-36 minutes for a 5-6 lb breast).
- Natural Release: Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes before using the quick-release valve.
- Make the Gravy: Remove the turkey and set aside to rest. Switch back to “Sauté” mode, whisk in flour or cornstarch (mixed with water) until the gravy thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
- Slice & Serve: Slice the turkey against the grain and drizzle with that beautiful gravy. Enjoy every bite!
### Chef’s Tips and Tricks
- Pre-searing: While optional, it’s worth it for that golden, crisp skin and added flavor depth.
- Rest the Turkey: Allowing it to sit for 5-10 minutes ensures the juices redistribute for the most tender slices.
- Gravy Consistency: Prefer a thinner gravy? Add more broth. Thicker? Stir in an extra touch of flour.
### Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions
- Add Heat: Sprinkle cayenne or red chili flakes on the turkey rub for a spicy kick.
- Different Herbs: Swap fresh parsley for tarragon or even sage for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Sides Pairing: Serve with creamy mashed potatoes, buttery green beans, and cranberry sauce for a full feast.
### FAQs
- Can I freeze leftovers? Absolutely! The turkey and gravy freeze wonderfully. Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
- How do I reheat it? Simply warm the turkey slices in the gravy on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of broth if needed.
- Can I use a frozen turkey breast? Yes, but you’ll need to thaw it fully before cooking to ensure even results.
### Try This Recipe and Share the Love!
Alright, friends, now it’s your turn to create this Instant Pot masterpiece! I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you. Drop a comment below if you give it a go or tag me in a photo of your creation on social media with #TheKitchensAid. Let’s make some turkey magic together! 🦃❤️
