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Perfect Instant Pot St Patrick’s Day Turkey Recipe with Easy Brown Butter

Instant Pot St Patrick’s Day turkey - featured image

A quick and flavorful turkey recipe using the Instant Pot and a rich brown butter glaze, perfect for St Patrick’s Day or any festive occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 to 5 pounds turkey breast, skin-on, bone-in
  • Kosher salt, to season generously
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to season generously
  • Fresh thyme sprigs
  • Fresh rosemary sprigs
  • 4 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 1 medium yellow onion, quartered
  • 1 cup (240 ml) low sodium chicken broth
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • Pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels to help the skin crisp up later. Season generously all over with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, including under the skin.
  2. Place the quartered onion, smashed garlic cloves, and fresh herb sprigs in the bottom of the Instant Pot. Pour in 1 cup (240 ml) of low sodium chicken broth.
  3. Lay the turkey breast skin-side up on top of the aromatics and broth. Lock the lid, ensuring the valve is set to sealing.
  4. Select ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ on high pressure for 25 minutes for a 4 to 5-pound breast. Adjust cooking time by about 5 minutes per pound if turkey size varies.
  5. Allow the pressure to release naturally for 15 minutes, then carefully switch to quick release to vent any remaining pressure. Remove the lid cautiously.
  6. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part. If under, cook for 3-5 more minutes under pressure.
  7. While the turkey rests for 10 minutes, melt 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Swirl occasionally until the butter foams and browns with a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and stir in 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice and a pinch of smoked paprika if using.
  8. Transfer the turkey to a serving platter and spoon the brown butter glaze generously over the skin.
  9. Slice the turkey and drizzle any extra brown butter from the pan over the slices. Serve warm.

Notes

Dry the turkey skin well before cooking to help the brown butter glaze stick better. Allow natural pressure release for 10-15 minutes to keep the turkey juicy. Watch the butter carefully when browning to avoid burning. Fresh herbs are preferred but dried can be used in smaller amounts. Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.

Nutrition

Keywords: Instant Pot turkey, St Patrick’s Day turkey, brown butter turkey, pressure cooker turkey, quick turkey recipe, festive turkey, easy turkey recipe