Turkey Roast Recipe in Air Fryer: A Juicy and Flavorful

When it comes to cooking a turkey roast, many of us often envision hours in the oven, frequent basting, and the stress of achieving perfectly moist meat. Thanks to modern kitchen technology, you can now cook a tender, juicy, and flavorful turkey roast in an air fryer! The air fryer not only saves time but also gives you a golden-brown exterior that mimics the traditional roasted look. This guide will take you through every step to prepare a delicious turkey roast using an air fryer.

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Introduction

Turkey roast is a classic dish often associated with festive occasions like Thanksgiving, Christmas, or family gatherings. However, with this air fryer recipe, you can enjoy a flavorful turkey roast any day of the week without the lengthy cooking process. Air fryers circulate hot air evenly, ensuring that the turkey is cooked to perfection—crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, this recipe is foolproof and will make your turkey roast the star of any meal.

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Recipe Overview

• Cuisine: American
• Course: Main Course
• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Active Cooking Time: 60 minutes
• Resting Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• Calories: ~320 per serving

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Equipment

• Air fryer (large enough for a 3-4 lb turkey roast)
• Mixing bowl
• Basting brush
• Meat thermometer
• Aluminum foil (optional)

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Ingredients

For the Turkey Roast:

• 3-4 lb boneless turkey breast or roast
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for a smoky flavor)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 lemon, sliced (optional, for stuffing or garnish)

For the Glaze (optional):

• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon melted butter

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Roast

1. Remove the turkey roast from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels. Drying the surface ensures a crispy exterior during cooking.
2. If the turkey roast is tied with butcher’s twine, keep it tied to maintain its shape while cooking.

Step 2: Make the Seasoning Rub

1. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, thyme, and rosemary to form a paste.
2. Rub the seasoning mixture all over the turkey roast, ensuring even coverage.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes.

Step 4: Cook the Turkey Roast

1. Place the seasoned turkey roast in the air fryer basket, skin side up.
2. Cook at 350°F for 25 minutes. Flip the turkey roast halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
3. After 50 minutes of cooking, check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer. The turkey is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part.

Step 5: Add the Glaze (Optional)

1. If using the glaze, mix honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and melted butter in a bowl.
2. Brush the glaze over the turkey roast in the last 5-10 minutes of cooking for a caramelized finish.

Step 6: Rest the Turkey Roast

1. Remove the turkey roast from the air fryer and tent it loosely with aluminum foil.
2. Let it rest for 10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist turkey.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

1. Slice the turkey roast against the grain and serve with your favorite side dishes like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

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Nutritional Information

Per serving (approx. 6 oz turkey):

• Calories: ~320
• Protein: 40g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 600mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on the size of the turkey roast and the exact ingredients used.

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Tips for the Perfect Air-Fried Turkey Roast

1. Choose the Right Size: Ensure your turkey roast fits comfortably in the air fryer basket. A 3-4 lb roast is ideal for most standard air fryers.
2. Don’t Skip Preheating: Preheating the air fryer ensures even cooking and reduces cooking time.
3. Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfectly cooked turkey, always check the internal temperature. Overcooking can dry out the meat.
4. Flip for Even Browning: Flipping the roast halfway through ensures even cooking on all sides.
5. Resting is Key: Allowing the turkey to rest before slicing prevents the juices from escaping, keeping the meat tender and moist.

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Why Cook Turkey Roast in an Air Fryer?

• Time-Saving: Compared to traditional oven roasting, air frying significantly reduces cooking time.
• Healthier Cooking: The air fryer requires minimal oil, making it a healthier alternative to deep frying.
• Crispy Exterior: The hot air circulation creates a golden, crispy crust while keeping the meat juicy.
• Convenience: The compact size of the air fryer makes it easier to clean and maintain compared to a conventional oven.

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Serving Suggestions

Pair your air-fried turkey roast with:

• Gravy or Cranberry Sauce: A perfect complement to the savory turkey.
• Vegetable Sides: Roasted Brussels sprouts, green beans, or honey-glazed carrots.
• Starches: Mashed potatoes, sweet potato casserole, or wild rice pilaf.
• Bread: Warm dinner rolls or cornbread for a hearty meal.

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With this air fryer turkey roast recipe, you can effortlessly prepare a restaurant-quality dish in your own kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a special dinner or craving a comforting meal, this recipe ensures a flavorful and satisfying experience. Try it today and enjoy the magic of air-fried turkey!