Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite way to do Thanksgiving dinner—my Thanksgiving crockpot recipe! Seriously, it’s a game changer. Just imagine a tender, juicy turkey breast that’s been slow-cooked to perfection, all while you kick back and enjoy the holiday chaos. The beauty of using a crockpot is that it takes the stress out of meal prep. You can toss everything in, set it, and forget it! Plus, the flavors meld together beautifully, with the herbs and veggies infusing the turkey with a warmth that just screams comfort. Trust me, your kitchen will smell heavenly, and your guests will be raving about how moist and flavorful the turkey is. This is one Thanksgiving dish you won’t want to miss!
Ingredients List
- 1 whole turkey breast (5-7 lbs), thawed and patted dry
- 1 cup chicken broth, or turkey stock for extra richness
- 2 teaspoons salt, to enhance flavor
- 1 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground if possible
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder, for that aromatic kick
- 1 teaspoon onion powder, adding depth to the flavor
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, for that perfect golden crust
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme, a classic herb for turkey
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary, for an earthy touch
- 1 cup chopped onion, for sweetness and aroma
- 1 cup chopped celery, adding crunch and flavor
- 1 cup chopped carrots, for a touch of sweetness
How to Prepare Thanksgiving Crockpot
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by rubbing the turkey breast all over with the olive oil. This helps to keep it moist while cooking and gives it that beautiful golden color.
- Sprinkle the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and rosemary evenly over the turkey. Make sure to get it all covered because this is where the flavor magic happens!
- Now, grab your trusty crockpot! Place the chopped onion, celery, and carrots in the bottom. This creates a cozy bed for the turkey and adds extra flavor as it cooks.
- Pour the chicken broth (or turkey stock if you’re feeling fancy) over the veggies. This will keep everything moist and add richness to the dish.
- Carefully place the seasoned turkey breast on top of the vegetables. Don’t worry if it looks a bit snug; it will shrink as it cooks!
- Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for about 6 to 8 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the internal temperature hits 165°F. Just imagine how great your kitchen will smell while it’s cooking!
- Once the turkey is done, carefully remove it from the crockpot and let it rest for about 15 minutes. This step is crucial—it helps the juices redistribute, making every slice super juicy.
- After it’s rested, slice it up and serve! You can even use those delicious veggies as a side, or toss them into a soup later. Yum!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk numbers! I always find it helpful to know what I’m serving up during the holidays. Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values for one slice of our delicious Thanksgiving crockpot turkey:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 600mg
Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary depending on the specific ingredients you use. But overall, this turkey is a great source of protein and makes for a satisfying meal that won’t weigh you down. Enjoy every slice guilt-free!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation time: With just 15 minutes of prep, you can set it and forget it, leaving you more time to enjoy the holiday!
- Flavorful and moist turkey: The slow cooking method ensures every bite is tender and bursting with flavor, thanks to the herbs and veggies.
- Easy cleanup: One pot does it all! Less mess means more time for family and friends—and we all know that’s what the holidays are about!
- Perfect for holiday gatherings: This recipe is designed to serve a crowd, making it ideal for Thanksgiving feasts and family get-togethers.
Tips for Success
Alright, friends, let’s make sure your Thanksgiving crockpot turkey turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my top tips to ensure you nail it:
- Use a meat thermometer: This is key! Check the internal temperature of the turkey breast to make sure it hits 165°F. It’s the best way to avoid overcooking and drying it out.
- Season generously: Don’t be shy with the spices! The turkey can handle it, and a good rub will really enhance the flavor. Feel free to add your favorite herbs or even some citrus zest for a fresh twist!
- Vegetable variations: While I love onion, celery, and carrots, feel free to mix in other veggies like bell peppers or even sweet potatoes for added sweetness and nutrition.
- Leftover magic: If you have leftover turkey, use it in sandwiches, salads, or soups! It can easily transform into a delicious turkey noodle soup or a hearty turkey salad.
- Don’t skip the resting time: I know it’s tempting to slice right away, but letting the turkey rest for about 15 minutes is crucial. It allows the juices to redistribute, giving you that juicy, tender bite!
- Make it a day ahead: If you’re short on time on Thanksgiving day, you can prep everything the night before. Just store the seasoned turkey in the fridge and pop it in the crockpot in the morning. Easy-peasy!
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to impressing your family and friends with an unforgettable Thanksgiving meal. Happy cooking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now that you’ve enjoyed your delicious Thanksgiving crockpot turkey, let’s talk about how to store those scrumptious leftovers! Proper storage is key to keeping that flavor intact for your next meal.
First, make sure the turkey has cooled down to room temperature. Once it’s cooled, you can slice it up and place the pieces in an airtight container. If you want to keep it super fresh, try to remove as much air as possible. This prevents drying out and keeps the turkey tasting juicy!
You can store your leftover turkey in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just remember to label your container with the date, so you know when it’s time to enjoy or toss it. If you want to keep it around longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before sealing it in a freezer-safe bag.
When it’s time to reheat, there are a couple of great methods to keep that turkey moist and flavorful. I recommend using the oven for the best results. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C), place the turkey slices in a baking dish, and add a splash of chicken broth or water to help keep the moisture in. Cover it with foil to prevent drying out, and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
If you’re in a hurry, you can also use the microwave. Just place the turkey slices on a microwave-safe plate, add a tiny bit of broth or water, cover with a microwave-safe lid or another plate, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed to your liking. Just be careful not to overdo it, or it can dry out!
With these storage and reheating tips, you’ll be able to savor the deliciousness of your Thanksgiving crockpot turkey for days to come. Enjoy every last bite!
FAQ Section
Can I use a frozen turkey breast?
While I recommend starting with a thawed turkey breast for even cooking, you can use a frozen one if needed. Just remember to increase the cooking time by a couple of hours, and make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F before serving. It may take a little longer to cook, but it can still turn out delicious!
What if I don’t have chicken broth?
No worries! If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, you can absolutely substitute it with turkey stock for a richer flavor. You could even use vegetable broth if that’s what you have—it’ll still be tasty!
How can I adjust the cooking time for a larger turkey breast?
If you’re using a turkey breast larger than 7 lbs, just plan on adding an extra hour or so to your cooking time. Always check for that magical 165°F with a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked through. Better safe than sorry!
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to throw in any veggies you love. Zucchini, bell peppers, or even mushrooms work great! Just keep in mind that adding too many might change the liquid levels, so make sure there’s still enough broth to keep everything moist.
What’s the best way to serve the turkey?
I love serving the turkey sliced with a side of those flavorful veggies from the crockpot. You can also whip up some gravy using the drippings, or serve it with a cranberry sauce for that perfect holiday touch. It’s all about what makes your Thanksgiving feel special!
Call to Action
I’d love to hear all about your Thanksgiving crockpot adventures! Did you try this recipe? How did it turn out for you? Please share your thoughts in the comments below! Your feedback not only makes my day, but it also helps others who are looking to create their own delicious turkey masterpiece. And if you have any fun twists or tips from your own experiences, don’t hold back—share those too! Oh, and if you loved this recipe, I’d be thrilled if you could give it a rating. Let’s spread the love for easy and tasty holiday cooking together!
Print
Thanksgiving Crockpot: 7 Secrets for Juicy turkey Perfection
- Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple and delicious Thanksgiving meal made in a crockpot.
Ingredients
- 1 whole turkey breast (5–7 lbs)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 cup chopped carrots
Instructions
- Rub the turkey breast with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and rosemary.
- Place the chopped vegetables in the bottom of the crockpot.
- Add the chicken broth to the crockpot.
- Place the turkey breast on top of the vegetables.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the turkey reaches 165°F.
- Remove the turkey, let it rest, then slice and serve.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add fresh herbs.
- You can use turkey stock instead of chicken broth.
- Leftovers can be used for sandwiches or soups.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: thanksgiving crockpot
