Crockpot Turkey

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, this Crockpot Turkey Breast recipe is just what you need. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this dish will fill your home with warmth and delightful aromas. I love how simple it is to set up in the morning and then come home to a tender turkey that practically falls off the bone. It truly makes meal time feel special!

This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, making it a favorite in my kitchen. You can easily customize it to suit your taste or the season. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this Crockpot Turkey Breast!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Simply season and let your crockpot do the work! You can spend time on other tasks while dinner cooks.
• Flavorful & Juicy: The herb butter mixture keeps the turkey moist and infuses every bite with rich flavor.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make this for Sunday dinner and enjoy leftovers all week—perfect for sandwiches, salads, or simple reheating.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves juicy turkey! Serve it with sides, and watch your loved ones come back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple ingredients is part of the charm of this recipe! You probably have most of these items in your pantry already. Each one adds its own touch to create a deliciously satisfying meal.

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)
• ½ teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced

For the Base

• 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

One of the best things about this Crockpot Turkey Breast recipe is its flexibility. Feel free to play around with flavors and ingredients to make it your own!

• Swap the herbs: Use fresh herbs instead of dried ones for an even brighter taste.
• Add fruit: Toss in some chopped apples or cranberries for a hint of sweetness.
• Change up the broth: Try using vegetable broth for a lighter base.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to give it some heat.

How to Make Crockpot Turkey Breast

Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Breast

Start by patting the turkey breast dry with paper towels. This step is key because it helps the seasoning stick better. If your turkey has skin, gently lift it and rub some seasoning underneath—this ensures each bite is packed with flavor!

Step 2: Make the Herb Butter

In a small bowl, mix together melted butter, olive oil, garlic, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, rosemary, sage (if using), and lemon zest. This herb butter adds richness and depth to your turkey. It’s like giving your bird a warm hug before cooking!

Step 3: Season the Turkey

Rub that glorious butter mixture all over your turkey breast. Don’t forget to cover both the skin and under it! This technique maximizes flavor throughout cooking and keeps the meat juicy.

Step 4: Prep the Crockpot

Create a flavorful base by placing sliced onions, chopped celery, carrots, and minced garlic at the bottom of your crockpot. Pour in chicken broth and Worcestershire sauce; they will add moisture and rich flavor as everything cooks together.

Step 5: Slow Cook the Turkey

Carefully place your seasoned turkey breast skin-side up on top of those lovely vegetables. Cover your crockpot and cook on LOW for 5-6 hours until its internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The slow cooking makes everything tender and delicious!

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

If you love crispy skin like I do, transfer your turkey breast to a baking sheet after cooking. Broil on high for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown. This step gives you that beautiful texture we all crave.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Before slicing into that gorgeous turkey breast, let it rest for about 10-15 minutes. This resting period allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat—ensuring each slice remains juicy and tender. Serve with gravy or alongside mashed potatoes for an unforgettable meal!

Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Turkey Breast

Creating the perfect Crockpot Turkey Breast is all about the details, and a few simple tips can elevate your dish to new heights!

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Using fresh herbs and high-quality broth enhances the flavor profile of your turkey. Fresh ingredients make a noticeable difference in taste.
• Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the seasoning! A well-seasoned turkey breast ensures every bite is flavorful, especially if you rub some under the skin.
• Adjust Cooking Time for Size: If you’re using a larger turkey breast, keep an eye on cooking time. Every crockpot is different, so checking the internal temperature is key to avoiding dryness.
• Let it Rest: After cooking, allow the turkey to rest before slicing. This step helps retain moisture and gives you juicy slices that are perfect for serving.
• Use Leftovers Creatively: If you have leftovers, they make great additions to salads, sandwiches, or soups. Get creative with those delicious turkey slices!

How to Serve Crockpot Turkey Breast

Serving your Crockpot Turkey Breast can be just as delightful as preparing it! Here are some ideas to present this dish that will impress family and friends.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or thyme over the top for a pop of color and freshness that brightens up your dish.
• Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side; they add a zesty touch that complements the savory flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting pairing that soaks up any delicious gravy.
• Green Beans Almondine: Lightly sautéed green beans tossed with toasted almonds provide a crunchy texture and vibrant color contrast to your turkey.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts seasoned simply with olive oil and salt add depth and an earthy flavor that balances well with turkey.
• Cranberry Sauce: A tangy cranberry sauce provides a sweet contrast to the savory turkey, making every bite harmonious.

With these serving suggestions, you’ll create a memorable meal around your succulent Crockpot Turkey Breast that everyone will love! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Crockpot Turkey Breast is a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious, tender turkey throughout the week. With its ease of preparation and incredible flavor, it’s perfect for busy evenings or holiday gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the turkey to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• Keep any accompanying veggies in a separate container if desired.

Freezing

• Slice the turkey breast into portions before freezing for easier use later.
• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Be sure to label with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw frozen turkey breast in the refrigerator overnight.
• To reheat, place the turkey slices in a baking dish, add a splash of broth or water, cover with foil, and heat in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) until warmed through (about 20-25 minutes).
• Alternatively, use the microwave on medium power until heated.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Crockpot Turkey Breast.

Can I use a boneless turkey breast for this recipe?

Yes! A boneless turkey breast works perfectly in this recipe. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary slightly based on size.

How do I know when my Crockpot Turkey Breast is done?

The turkey is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast for accuracy.

What can I serve with my Crockpot Turkey Breast?

This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or cranberry sauce. You can also enjoy it as leftovers in sandwiches!

Can I make this Crockpot Turkey Breast without broth?

Absolutely! If you prefer, you can substitute broth with water or vegetable broth for a lighter option. Just be aware that the flavor may be less rich.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this Crockpot Turkey Breast! It’s not only a simple recipe but also one that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. Whether it’s for a family dinner or special occasion, there’s something truly special about slow-cooked turkey. Enjoy every bite and feel free to share your experiences—I would love to hear how it turns out for you!