Easy Crock Pot Turkey Breast Recipe

Hey guys! Are you looking for a super easy and delicious way to cook a turkey breast? Well, look no further! Cooking a turkey breast in the crock pot is the way to go. It's incredibly simple, and the result is a juicy, flavorful turkey that's perfect for sandwiches, salads, or a small holiday gathering. In this guide, we’ll walk you through each step, from prepping the turkey to serving up a mouthwatering meal. Let's dive in and learn how to make the perfect crock pot turkey breast!

Why Cook Turkey Breast in a Crock Pot?

Before we get started, let's talk about why using a crock pot for your turkey breast is such a fantastic idea. Crock pot cooking is a game-changer for so many reasons, and it's especially great for turkey.

• First off, it's incredibly convenient. You just toss everything in, set it, and forget it. This is perfect for busy weeknights or when you have guests coming over and don't want to be stuck in the kitchen all day.
• Secondly, it keeps the turkey super moist. The slow cooking process allows the turkey to baste in its own juices, resulting in a tender and flavorful breast every time.
• Lastly, it frees up your oven! During the holidays, oven space is prime real estate. Using a crock pot for the turkey breast lets you focus on other dishes like sides and desserts. So, if you're looking for an easy, moist, and oven-free way to cook a turkey breast, the crock pot is your new best friend. Trust me, you'll love how simple and delicious this method is. Let's get cooking!

Ingredients You'll Need

Okay, let's gather our ingredients! This recipe is all about simplicity, so you won't need a ton of stuff. But each ingredient plays a crucial role in making your turkey breast taste amazing. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Turkey Breast: Of course, the star of the show! A 5-7 pound boneless turkey breast is ideal for a standard-sized crock pot. Make sure it's thawed completely before you start cooking. This is super important for even cooking and food safety.
• Olive Oil: A little drizzle of olive oil helps to get those delicious flavors going and keeps the turkey moist.
• Chicken Broth: This is the magic ingredient that keeps the turkey juicy and adds a ton of flavor. You can also use turkey broth if you have it on hand.
• Onion: A quartered onion adds a subtle sweetness and savory depth to the turkey. It's like a flavor bomb in the crock pot!
• Garlic: Minced garlic is a must for any good recipe, and it's no different here. It infuses the turkey with that classic garlic goodness.
• Herbs and Spices: Now, for the flavor boosters! We're talking about a blend of dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage. These herbs give the turkey that traditional holiday flavor we all love. A little paprika adds a touch of color and smokiness, while salt and pepper are essential for seasoning.
• Optional Add-Ins: Feel free to get creative here! You can add carrots, celery, or even some lemon slices to the crock pot for extra flavor.

Having these ingredients on hand will set you up for success. Remember, high-quality ingredients mean a high-quality dish. So, grab your list and head to the store – it's time to get cooking!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let's get down to business and walk through the steps to cooking a turkey breast in the crock pot. Trust me, it’s way easier than you might think! Just follow along, and you’ll have a delicious turkey in no time.

Step 1: Prep the Turkey

First things first, let’s get that turkey ready. Start by taking your thawed turkey breast out of the packaging. Give it a good rinse under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps remove any excess moisture and ensures the seasonings stick better. Next, grab a small bowl and mix together your olive oil, minced garlic, dried rosemary, thyme, sage, paprika, salt, and pepper. This is your flavor powerhouse! Rub this mixture all over the turkey breast, making sure to get every nook and cranny. This step is crucial for infusing the turkey with delicious flavor. Set the turkey aside for a few minutes while you prep the crock pot.

Step 2: Prep the Crock Pot

Now, let's get your crock pot ready for its star performance. Grab your crock pot and pour in the chicken broth. This will keep the turkey moist and add a ton of flavor. Next, add the quartered onion to the bottom of the crock pot. The onion acts as a natural rack, lifting the turkey slightly off the bottom and allowing it to cook evenly. If you’re using any optional add-ins like carrots or celery, toss them in now too. These veggies will add extra flavor and moisture to the turkey.

Step 3: Cook the Turkey

Okay, the moment we've been waiting for! Carefully place the seasoned turkey breast on top of the onion and any other veggies in the crock pot. Make sure it’s sitting snugly in there. Now, put the lid on your crock pot and set it to cook. For a 5-7 pound turkey breast, you’ll want to cook it on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The cooking time can vary depending on your crock pot and the size of the turkey breast, so it’s important to check the internal temperature. The turkey is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the breast. Once it hits that temperature, you know it’s perfectly cooked and ready to go.

Step 4: Rest and Serve

Almost there! Once the turkey is cooked, turn off the crock pot and let the turkey rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful turkey. Carefully remove the turkey breast from the crock pot and place it on a cutting board. Slice the turkey against the grain into your desired thickness. Now, it’s time to serve and enjoy your perfectly cooked crock pot turkey breast! Serve it up with your favorite sides, or use it for sandwiches and salads throughout the week. Trust me, this turkey will be a hit!

Tips for the Perfect Crock Pot Turkey Breast

Cooking a turkey breast in a crock pot is pretty straightforward, but a few extra tips can help you achieve the absolute perfect result. Let's dive into some insider secrets to ensure your turkey is juicy, flavorful, and a total crowd-pleaser.

Don't Overcook It

This is crucial. Overcooked turkey is dry turkey, and nobody wants that. The key is to use a meat thermometer and cook the turkey until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Start checking the temperature about an hour before the estimated cooking time is up. Remember, you can always cook it a little longer if needed, but you can't uncook it! Once it hits that 165°F mark, it's time to take it out of the crock pot.

Use a Meat Thermometer

Seriously, get yourself a meat thermometer if you don't already have one. It's the only way to accurately gauge the doneness of your turkey. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the breast, avoiding the bone. This will give you the most accurate reading and prevent any guesswork. A meat thermometer is a small investment that makes a huge difference in the outcome of your cooking.

Thaw the Turkey Completely

This might seem obvious, but it’s worth mentioning. Make sure your turkey breast is completely thawed before you start cooking. An unevenly thawed turkey will cook unevenly, which means you could end up with some parts that are overcooked and others that are undercooked. Nobody wants that! Plan ahead and give your turkey plenty of time to thaw in the refrigerator. A good rule of thumb is to allow 24 hours of thawing time for every 5 pounds of turkey.

Let It Rest

Once your turkey is cooked, resist the urge to slice into it immediately. Let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful turkey. Trust me, this little bit of patience makes a big difference. Cover the turkey loosely with foil while it rests to keep it warm.

Save the Juices

Don't throw away the juices left in the crock pot! These are liquid gold. You can use them to make a delicious gravy or add them to soups and stews for extra flavor. Strain the juices to remove any solids, and then use them as a base for your gravy. You'll be amazed at the depth of flavor they add. Plus, it's a great way to reduce food waste!

Get Creative with Seasonings

While the recipe we’ve provided is a great starting point, don't be afraid to get creative with your seasonings. Experiment with different herbs and spices to find your perfect flavor combination. Try adding a little smoked paprika for a smoky flavor, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a touch of heat. You can also use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs for a brighter flavor. The possibilities are endless!

Serving Suggestions

So, you've cooked a beautiful turkey breast in your crock pot – congrats! Now, it's time to think about how you're going to serve it. The great thing about crock pot turkey breast is that it's incredibly versatile. You can serve it as part of a traditional holiday meal, use it for sandwiches and salads, or even add it to casseroles and soups. Let's explore some delicious serving suggestions to get your creative culinary juices flowing.

Classic Holiday Meal

Of course, a classic holiday meal is always a winner. Serve your crock pot turkey breast with all the traditional fixings: mashed potatoes, gravy, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and your favorite vegetables. The moist and flavorful turkey breast will be the star of the show, and everyone will rave about how delicious it is. For an extra touch, consider adding some roasted root vegetables like carrots and parsnips to your holiday spread. They pair perfectly with turkey and add a touch of sweetness to the meal.

Turkey Sandwiches

Turkey sandwiches are a fantastic way to use up leftover turkey, but they're also delicious any time of year. Slice the turkey breast and pile it high on your favorite bread. Add your favorite toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, cheese, and mayonnaise. For a gourmet twist, try adding some cranberry sauce or a smear of Dijon mustard. You can also grill or toast the sandwiches for a warm and crispy treat. Turkey sandwiches are perfect for lunch, a light dinner, or even a picnic.

Turkey Salads

Turkey salad is another great way to enjoy your crock pot turkey breast. Dice the turkey and mix it with mayonnaise, celery, onion, and your favorite seasonings. You can add other ingredients like grapes, cranberries, or walnuts for extra flavor and texture. Serve the turkey salad on lettuce wraps, croissants, or crackers for a light and refreshing meal. Turkey salad is also a great option for potlucks and picnics.

Turkey Casseroles

If you're looking for a comforting and hearty meal, turkey casseroles are the way to go. Add diced turkey breast to your favorite casserole recipe, such as a turkey tetrazzini or a turkey pot pie. Casseroles are a great way to use up leftover vegetables and other ingredients, and they're perfect for feeding a crowd. Plus, they're easy to make ahead of time, making them a great option for busy weeknights.

Turkey Soups and Stews

Turkey soups and stews are another delicious way to use your crock pot turkey breast. Add shredded turkey to your favorite soup or stew recipe for extra protein and flavor. Turkey noodle soup, turkey chili, and turkey vegetable stew are all great options. Soups and stews are perfect for chilly days, and they're a great way to warm up from the inside out. Plus, they're a healthy and satisfying meal.

Conclusion

So there you have it, guys! Cooking a turkey breast in the crock pot is a total game-changer. It’s easy, convenient, and results in a juicy, flavorful turkey that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or just want a delicious meal for your family, this method is sure to impress. Remember, the key is to keep it simple, use quality ingredients, and follow our tips for the perfect cook.

From prepping the turkey to serving it up in a variety of ways, we’ve covered everything you need to know to become a crock pot turkey breast pro. So, grab your crock pot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy the most tender and flavorful turkey you’ve ever had. Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite!