Crockpot Turkey Breast

If you’re looking for a cozy, hassle-free meal that will make your kitchen smell incredible, you’ve come to the right place! This Crockpot Turkey Breast recipe is one of my favorites because it’s so simple yet delivers a feast-worthy flavor. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special family gathering, this dish shines through. Imagine coming home to a perfectly cooked turkey that’s tender and juicy, ready to be served with all your favorite sides!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Just season and let the crockpot do the work. It’s perfect for those days when time is tight.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: Everyone loves the rich taste of turkey! It’s sure to please both kids and adults at the dinner table.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep it in the morning, and by dinner, you’ll have a delicious meal waiting for you.
• Perfectly Moist Results: Slow cooking keeps the turkey breast juicy and flavorful, ensuring it doesn’t dry out.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it with gravy, in sandwiches, or as part of a salad—there are endless ways to savor this dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to create this delightful Crockpot Turkey Breast. Don’t worry; these are mostly pantry staples that you might already have on hand!

For the Turkey

• 1 (4-6 lb) bone-in or boneless turkey breast
• 3 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika (adds a golden color)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon dried sage (optional, for extra holiday flavor)
• ½ teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for brightness)

For the Base

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken or turkey broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (adds depth of flavor)
• ½ onion, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 carrot, chopped

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily adapt it to fit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: If turkey isn’t available or not your favorite, try using chicken breast instead. The process remains largely the same!
• Add more veggies: Feel free to toss in other vegetables like bell peppers or potatoes for added flavor and nutrition.
• Change up the herbs: Experiment with different herbs based on what you like—basil or oregano can add a lovely twist!
• Spice it up: For a kick of heat, consider adding some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.

How to Make Crockpot Turkey Breast

Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Breast

Start by patting your turkey breast dry with paper towels. This step is crucial because it helps all those delicious seasonings stick better! If your turkey has skin, gently lift it and rub some seasoning underneath for an extra burst of flavor.

Step 2: Make the Herb Butter

In a small bowl, mix together melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, rosemary, sage (if using), and lemon zest. This herb butter is what makes our turkey so flavorful and aromatic while cooking!

Step 3: Season the Turkey

Rub that fantastic butter mixture all over your turkey breast—don’t be shy! Ensure you cover both the skin and under it for maximum taste. Your turkey will soak up all those flavors as it cooks.

Step 4: Prep the Crockpot

At the bottom of your crockpot, layer in sliced onions, chopped celery and carrots along with minced garlic. This veggie base will not only add flavor but also create a beautiful bed for our turkey. Pour in chicken broth and Worcestershire sauce over everything; this will keep our turkey moist while cooking.

Step 5: Slow Cook the Turkey

Now it’s time to place your seasoned turkey breast skin-side up right on top of those veggies. Cover your crockpot and set it to LOW for about 5-6 hours or until its internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The slow cooking method ensures that every bite is tender!

Step 6: Broil for Crispy Skin (Optional but Recommended)

For that golden crispy skin that everyone loves, transfer your cooked turkey breast to a baking sheet and broil on high for about 4-5 minutes until beautifully browned. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Once done broiling (if you choose this step), let your turkey rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat making each slice incredibly juicy. Serve with gravy over mashed potatoes or alongside your favorite sides—enjoy every delightful bite!

This Crockpot Turkey Breast recipe truly brings warmth to any gathering—just like sharing good times with friends over a hearty meal!

Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Turkey Breast

Cooking a turkey breast in a crockpot is a fantastic way to ensure juicy, flavorful meat with minimal effort. Here are some tips to elevate your dish!

• Pat it Dry: Before seasoning, pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. This helps the skin get crispy and allows the flavors to penetrate better.
• Under the Skin: For maximum flavor, rub some of the herb butter mixture underneath the skin as well. This infuses the meat with delicious seasonings as it cooks.
• Choose Bone-In: If possible, opt for a bone-in turkey breast. The bone adds flavor and moisture during cooking, resulting in tender meat.
• Let It Rest: After cooking, let the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This ensures that the juices redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it moist and flavorful.
• Save the Drippings: Don’t forget to save the drippings from the crockpot! They make a wonderful base for gravy or can be used in soups and sauces.

How to Serve Crockpot Turkey Breast

Serving your perfectly cooked crockpot turkey breast is just as important as preparing it! With a few simple touches, you can create an impressive meal that looks as good as it tastes.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or thyme on top just before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
• Cranberry Sauce: A dollop of homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce adds a sweet-tart contrast that complements the savory turkey beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic are always a hit. They soak up all those delicious drippings!
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized provides both visual appeal and extra nutrition to your plate.
• Green Beans Almondine: Sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds offer a delightful crunch and vibrant color alongside your turkey.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette adds refreshing brightness and balances out the richness of the turkey.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re sure to impress family and friends at your next gathering! Enjoy your delicious crockpot turkey breast!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Crockpot Turkey Breast is perfect for meal prep! You can cook it ahead of time and enjoy delicious, juicy turkey for days. Here’s how to store and handle leftovers:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the turkey breast to cool completely before storing.
• Place the sliced turkey in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, ensure the turkey is completely cooled.
• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Label and date the container, then freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen turkey slices overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish with a splash of broth or water. Cover with a damp paper towel and microwave on medium power until heated through.
• Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this delicious dish.

Can I use a boneless turkey breast for this Crockpot Turkey Breast recipe?

Absolutely! A boneless turkey breast works wonderfully, just ensure you adjust the cooking time if necessary. It will still turn out juicy and flavorful!

How long does it take to cook a Crockpot Turkey Breast?

Cooking your Crockpot Turkey Breast typically takes between 5-6 hours on LOW. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.

What can I serve with Crockpot Turkey Breast?

This turkey pairs beautifully with sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or stuffing. Don’t forget some gravy for extra flavor!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This Crockpot Turkey Breast is great for meal prep as it stores well and can be used in various dishes throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this delectable Crockpot Turkey Breast! It’s not just about the meal; it’s about bringing loved ones together around the table. Enjoy every bite and feel free to get creative with your sides! Happy cooking!