Instant Pot Turkey Breast with Creamy Gravy Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting, juicy, and seriously delicious turkey dinner without all the fuss, you’re going to love this Instant Pot Turkey Breast with Creamy Gravy Recipe. I absolutely love how this method speeds up the cooking while keeping the turkey tender and bursting with flavor, plus the creamy gravy? It’s the perfect finishing touch that’ll have your whole family asking for seconds.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple ingredients come together beautifully to create a flavorful turkey breast and a comforting gravy that’s so easy to whip up. I recommend getting fresh garlic and good quality broth to really enhance the flavors.

• Turkey breast: Choose a medium-sized breast, around 3-4 pounds, for even cooking in the Instant Pot.
• Vegetable oil: Helps with searing and adds some moisture to the seasoning.
• Salt and black pepper: Basic seasoning essentials for bringing out the natural flavor of the turkey.
• Paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and lovely color to the bird.
• Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that provides depth and aroma.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic really makes this dish sing.
• Butter: Used to sear the turkey, it adds richness and helps build flavor right from the start.
• Water: Just half a cup is needed inside the pot to prevent burning and to form the base of the gravy.
• All-purpose flour: The secret to thick, creamy gravy that clings to the slices of turkey.
• Chicken broth: Adds savory depth to the gravy.
• Heavy cream: For that luscious, silky gravy texture.

Variations

I love making this recipe my own by tweaking the seasoning or adding a few ingredients here and there. Feel free to get creative and find what really suits your family’s taste buds and dietary needs.

• Herb Variations: I once swapped Italian seasoning for fresh rosemary and thyme, and it gave the turkey a bright, earthy flavor my family adored.
• Dairy-Free Gravy: If you’re avoiding dairy, I replace the heavy cream with coconut milk—just as creamy and comforting.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked chili powder to give the turkey a subtle heat that wakes up the palate.

How to Make Instant Pot Turkey Breast with Creamy Gravy Recipe

Step 1: Season and Rest the Turkey

Start by patting the turkey breast dry with paper towels—dry skin means better searing! Rub it all over with vegetable oil, salt, pepper, paprika, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic. I like to let mine rest for at least 15 minutes at room temperature; I discovered that resting helps the turkey cook more evenly and stay juicy, which totally makes a difference in every bite.

Step 2: Sear the Turkey in the Instant Pot

Turn on the Sauté function to high and add butter. Once melted and bubbly, add the turkey breast and sear it for about 5 minutes on each side until it’s golden brown. Don’t worry—you’re not cooking it all the way through here; you just want that beautiful color and flavor developed on the outside. This step gives you a turkey breast with amazing color and juiciness inside.

Step 3: Pressure Cook the Turkey

Place a wire rack inside the Instant Pot and pour in half a cup of water—this keeps the drippings from burning and creates steam for pressure cooking. Put the seared turkey on the rack. Seal the lid and set the pressure cooker to manual for 30 minutes. Once done, I usually do a natural release for about 20 minutes, but you can quick-release if you’re in a hurry. Letting it rest afterward helps those juices redistribute, making the meat so tender.

Step 4: Rest and Slice the Turkey

Carefully remove the turkey breast and tent it with foil for 10 minutes of rest. This step is key—I’ve learned the hard way that skipping it leads to drier meat. After resting, slice the turkey and get ready for the best part: pouring on that creamy gravy!

Step 5: Make the Creamy Gravy

Keep the turkey drippings in the Instant Pot and switch back to Sauté on high. Whisk in flour to create a roux, then gradually stir in chicken broth and heavy cream. Continue whisking until the gravy thickens—about 2-3 minutes. Season it with salt and pepper to taste. This gravy is rich, silky, and the perfect partner for your turkey slices.

How to Serve Instant Pot Turkey Breast with Creamy Gravy Recipe

Garnishes

I like to sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or thyme over the sliced turkey and gravy for a fresh pop of color and flavor—it really brightens the dish and makes it look restaurant-worthy even on a busy weeknight.

Side Dishes

This recipe pairs wonderfully with buttery mashed potatoes to soak up all the gravy, roasted vegetables like carrots and Brussels sprouts, or even a simple green salad for a lighter balance. My family goes crazy when I serve it alongside creamy mashed sweet potatoes!

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve served the turkey breast sliced thickly on a wooden board with little gravy bowls on the side, garnished with roasted garlic cloves and sprigs of fresh rosemary. It looks gorgeous and feels really warm and inviting for guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I always store leftover turkey and gravy in airtight containers in the refrigerator and try to use them within 3-4 days. The turkey retains its tenderness well, and the gravy keeps its creamy richness—just reheat gently to avoid drying out.

Freezing

Freezing leftover slices and gravy works great if you want to save time later. I portion the turkey and gravy separately in freezer-safe containers. When thawed, the gravy might need a quick whisk and gentle reheating to bring back that silky texture.

Reheating

For best results, microwave turkey slices covered with a damp paper towel to keep moisture, or warm them gently in a low oven wrapped in foil. Reheat the gravy in a small saucepan on the stovetop, whisking occasionally to prevent separation.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Instant Pot Turkey Breast with Creamy Gravy Recipe has become a cherished favorite in my kitchen because it’s convenient, reliable, and absolutely delicious every time. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a comforting weeknight meal, it’s a recipe that I wholeheartedly recommend you try. Trust me, once you taste that juicy turkey paired with the rich gravy, you’ll be making this again and again—and I’ll be right here cheering you on in your cooking journey!

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