The scent of roasted turkey wafts through the air, mingling with the sweet aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg, creating a cozy ambiance that feels like a warm hug on a chilly winter day. Imagine sinking your teeth into a juicy slice of Instant Pot Christmas Turkey Breast with Gravy, where every bite bursts with flavor and comfort. comforting one pot meal It’s not just food; it’s a festive ticket to nostalgia, evoking memories of laughter-filled gatherings and the joy of family traditions.
This dish is perfect for those holiday celebrations when time is tight but you still want to impress your guests. With just a few simple ingredients and your trusty Instant Pot, you can whip up this succulent turkey breast that comes alive with rich gravy—it’s like magic, but tastier!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Instant Pot Christmas Turkey Breast with Gravy is a cinch to prepare, making it ideal for busy holiday cooks.
- The flavors are rich and savory, ensuring every bite is a festive delight.
- The visual appeal of beautifully sliced turkey paired with glossy gravy creates an irresistible presentation.
- Versatile enough for any occasion, this dish shines whether it’s Thanksgiving or Tuesday night dinner.
Ingredients for Instant Pot Christmas Turkey Breast with Gravy
For more inspiration, check out this creamy scalloped potatoes recipe.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless Turkey Breast: A 3-4 pound boneless turkey breast works best; look for one that’s fresh or properly frozen.
- Chicken Broth: This adds moisture and flavor; homemade or store-bought will do the trick.
- Dried Thyme: This herb brings out the savory notes in the turkey; use dried for convenience.
- Dried Rosemary: Adds an aromatic touch; crush it slightly before adding for better flavor release.
- Garlic Powder: For that extra layer of flavor; fresh garlic works too if you prefer.
- Onion Powder: A classic seasoning that complements turkey beautifully.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors in your dish.
- Butter: For making the gravy luscious—because who doesn’t love butter?
For the Gravy:
- Wondra Flour: This fine flour helps thicken your gravy perfectly without lumps.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Instant Pot Christmas Turkey Breast with Gravy
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Season the Turkey
Start by patting your turkey breast dry with paper towels. Then rub salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and rosemary all over it. You want to coax those flavors into every nook and cranny—trust me, it’s worth it.
Step 2: Sauté for Flavor
Turn on your Instant Pot and select the sauté function. Melt some butter in there until it’s bubbly—oh yes! Add your seasoned turkey breast and sear it on both sides for about three minutes each until golden brown. Your kitchen will start smelling like a holiday miracle.
Step 3: Add Broth
Once you’ve got that lovely color on your turkey, carefully pour in the chicken broth around it—not on top because we don’t want to wash away that beautiful seasoning job you did. Lock the lid on your Instant Pot tightly.
Step 4: Cook Under Pressure
Set your Instant Pot to manual high pressure for about 30-35 minutes depending on its size (a little longer for larger breasts). Once done cooking, allow it to naturally release pressure for about ten minutes before doing a quick release for any remaining steam.
Step 5: Make the Gravy
Carefully remove the turkey from the pot (it should be super tender) and set it aside. In a small bowl, mix Wondra flour with some cold water until smooth. Turn the pot back to sauté mode again; stir in this mixture into the broth while whisking constantly until thickened—voilà! You have gravy.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Slice up that gorgeous turkey breast—you’ll see how juicy it is—and pour over generous amounts of gravy right before serving. Gather around your table and let everyone indulge in this delightful feast!
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every bite as you create new memories surrounded by loved ones!
You Must Know
- This Instant Pot Christmas Turkey Breast with Gravy recipe is not just about turkey; it’s a holiday miracle in a pot.
- Perfectly juicy and tender, this dish makes for an unforgettable festive feast without the stress.
- Your guests will be raving about it for years to come.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve turkey perfection, start by seasoning your bird generously. Sear it first in the Instant Pot to lock in flavors. While the turkey cooks, whip up that glorious gravy so everything’s ready at once. Efficiency is key!
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your turkey breast with herbs like rosemary or thyme, or try adding a splash of apple cider for a sweet twist. You can also swap out traditional gravy for a mushroom cream sauce if you’re feeling adventurous.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. For reheating, gently warm in the microwave or stovetop, adding a splash of broth to keep everything moist and flavorful.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- 1.
- Let the turkey rest after cooking; this helps retain juices and keeps your meat tender and succulent. 2.
- Use fresh herbs for flavor; they can elevate your dish from ordinary to extraordinary with minimal effort. 3.
- Don’t skip the gravy; it’s the magic touch that ties this meal together beautifully.
Sharing this recipe reminds me of my first Thanksgiving dinner as an adult when I bravely decided to host! My turkey was a little dry but covered in delicious gravy, and everyone still came back for seconds!
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Instant Pot Christmas Turkey Breast with Gravy?
To prepare Instant Pot Christmas Turkey Breast with Gravy, gather the following ingredients: a turkey breast (about 3-4 pounds), chicken broth, butter, garlic, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. You’ll also need cornstarch or flour to thicken the gravy. This combination of ingredients ensures a flavorful turkey that pairs perfectly with the rich gravy. Make sure to season your turkey breast generously for the best results.
How long does it take to cook Instant Pot Christmas Turkey Breast?
Cooking an Instant Pot Christmas Turkey Breast typically takes about 6 to 8 minutes per pound on high pressure. For a standard 3-pound turkey breast, you should aim for approximately 18-24 minutes of cooking time. Don’t forget to allow for natural pressure release, which can take an additional 10-15 minutes. This method ensures the turkey remains juicy and tender while thoroughly cooking through.
Can I make gravy from the drippings after cooking?
Absolutely! One of the best parts of making Instant Pot Christmas Turkey Breast with Gravy is using the drippings to create a delicious sauce. After you remove the turkey, switch your Instant Pot to sauté mode and add cornstarch mixed with water to the drippings. Stir until it thickens into a rich gravy. This enhances the flavor and makes your meal more indulgent.
How do I store leftover turkey breast and gravy?
To store leftover Instant Pot Christmas Turkey Breast with Gravy, allow them to cool completely before placing them in airtight containers. You can refrigerate leftovers for up to four days or freeze them for up to three months. If freezing, consider separating the turkey from the gravy to maintain texture when reheating. Always label your containers with dates for easy reference.
Conclusion for Instant Pot Christmas Turkey Breast with Gravy :
Preparing an Instant Pot Christmas Turkey Breast with Gravy is both simple and rewarding. By following this recipe, you’ll create a tender and juicy turkey that is perfect for holiday gatherings. Remember to gather all necessary ingredients and allow adequate cooking time for optimal results. savory turkey meatballs Don’t forget about utilizing those tasty drippings for a homemade gravy that elevates your dish even further. Enjoy this festive meal as part of your holiday traditions!
Instant Pot Christmas Turkey Breast with Gravy
Instant Pot Christmas Turkey Breast with Gravy is a delightful and hassle-free dish that elevates your holiday feast. This tender turkey breast, infused with savory herbs and drenched in rich homemade gravy, promises to impress your guests without the stress. Perfect for busy cooks, it’s a festive centerpiece suitable for Thanksgiving or Christmas gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Pressure Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 3–4 lb boneless turkey breast
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tsp dried thyme
- 2 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
- 2 tbsp butter (for sautéing)
- ¼ cup Wondra flour (for gravy)
Instructions
- Pat the turkey breast dry and rub it with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and rosemary.
- Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and melt butter. Sear the turkey on both sides until golden brown (about 3 minutes per side).
- Pour chicken broth around the turkey (not over the top). Lock the lid and cook on high pressure for 30-35 minutes.
- Allow pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes before performing a quick release.
- Remove the turkey and set aside. Mix Wondra flour with cold water until smooth; stir this mixture into the pot while on sauté mode until thickened to create gravy.
- Slice the turkey and serve with generous amounts of gravy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 4 oz turkey with gravy
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 670 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 9 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, consider incorporating fresh herbs or a splash of apple cider into the broth. - Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to four days.




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