Seasoned Crock Pot Turkey Breast

The aroma alone transports me back to Thanksgiving mornings at my grandmother’s house. While the whole roasted turkey held court on the dining table, it was always the succulent, seasoned turkey breast simmering away in the slow cooker that stole my heart. It was so tender, practically falling apart at the touch of a fork, and infused with a savory, herbaceous flavor that lingered long after the last bite. That crock pot turkey breast was always my little Thanksgiving secret, a cherished culinary memory I’ve recreated countless times since.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 3-4 hours
• Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes to 4 hours 15 minutes
• Servings: 10-12
• Yield: Variable, depending on slicing thickness
• Dietary Type: Generally gluten-free and dairy-free (check Worcestershire sauce label)

Ingredients

• 5 1/2 – 6 lbs turkey breast, with bone
• 2 teaspoons minced fresh garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon marjoram
• 1/2 teaspoon rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon cajun seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay Seasoning
• 1 teaspoon ground dry mustard
• 1 teaspoon creamed horseradish
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1/2 cup cold water
• 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce (check label for gluten-free if needed)

Equipment Needed

• 3 1/2 quart or larger crock pot
• Cutting board
• Large spoon
• Knife
• Serving platter
• Small bowl or measuring cup (for gravy slurry, if making gravy)
• Strainer (for gravy, if making gravy)

Instructions

1. Begin by thoroughly washing the turkey breast. Then, drain it well.
2. Carefully place the turkey breast inside the crock pot. Make sure the lid of the crock pot will fit securely on top once the turkey is inside. If the turkey breast is too large, you may need to trim it slightly or use a larger crock pot.
3. Combine the following seasonings: minced fresh garlic, marjoram, rosemary, cajun seasoning, chili powder, Old Bay Seasoning, ground dry mustard, and creamed horseradish.
4. Distribute the seasoning mixture evenly around the sides of the turkey breast inside the crock pot. Also, scatter the diced onion around the turkey.
5. In a separate container, combine the cold water and Worcestershire sauce.
6. Pour the water and Worcestershire sauce mixture evenly over the top of the turkey breast.
7. Place the lid securely on the crock pot.
8. Set the temperature control on the crock pot to HIGH and cook for 3 to 4 hours, or until the turkey is fully cooked.
9. You’ll know the turkey is done when the bone gently releases from the meat when you try to pull on it with a fork. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast should register 165°F (74°C).
10. Once the turkey is cooked through, carefully remove it from the crock pot. Drain any excess liquid and place the turkey breast on a large cutting board.
11. If you want to make gravy, reserve the liquid remaining in the crock pot. This flavorful liquid will be the base for your gravy.
12. Let the turkey breast cool for about 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful finished product. While the turkey is cooling, you can prepare the gravy.
13. Using a sharp knife, cut the turkey breast into thin slices.
14. Arrange the slices attractively on a serving platter.
15. To make Gravy: Carefully strain the liquid from the crock pot to remove any solids, such as onion pieces or herbs.
16. For each cup of strained liquid, mix together 1 1/2 teaspoons cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water in a small bowl to create a slurry. This prevents lumps in your gravy.
17. Pour the cornstarch slurry into the hot broth mixture in the crock pot (or a saucepan, if preferred).
18. Stir constantly over medium heat until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency. This usually takes just a few minutes. Be careful not to overcook the gravy, as it can become too thick or gummy.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Don’t peek! Resist the urge to lift the lid of the crock pot during cooking, as this releases heat and can prolong the cooking time.
• For extra flavor, you can brown the turkey breast in a skillet before adding it to the crock pot. This adds a rich, caramelized flavor to the finished dish.
• If you find the turkey is browning too quickly on top, you can loosely tent it with foil during the last hour of cooking.
• To ensure the turkey is cooked through, use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the breast, avoiding the bone. The temperature should register 165°F (74°C).
• Add vegetables: For a complete meal, add some chopped carrots, celery, and potatoes to the crock pot along with the turkey. They’ll cook in the flavorful juices and become incredibly tender.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the sliced turkey breast immediately, accompanied by your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and green bean casserole. Ladle the homemade gravy generously over the turkey and sides.

Leftover turkey can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze the turkey in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.

To reheat, thaw the turkey in the refrigerator overnight. You can then reheat it in the microwave, oven, or skillet. Add a little broth or gravy to keep it moist. Gravy should be reheated separately, stirring occasionally to prevent skin from forming.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	405.8 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	158 g	39%
Total Fat	17.6 g	27%
Saturated Fat	4.8 g	23%
Cholesterol	162.2 mg	54%
Sodium	218.3 mg	9%
Total Carbohydrate	3.3 g	1%
Dietary Fiber	0.3 g	1%
Sugars	1.4 g	5%
Protein	54.9 g	109%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Variations & Substitutions

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning mixture for a little extra heat.
• Herb variations: Experiment with different herbs, such as thyme, sage, or oregano, to create a unique flavor profile.
• Sweet and savory: Add a tablespoon of brown sugar or maple syrup to the water and Worcestershire sauce mixture for a touch of sweetness.
• Wine infusion: Substitute 1/2 cup of dry white wine for 1/2 cup of water for a more complex flavor.
• Boneless turkey breast: You can use a boneless turkey breast for this recipe, but be aware that it may cook faster.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a frozen turkey breast for this recipe?
A: It’s best to thaw the turkey breast completely before cooking it in the crock pot for even cooking and food safety. Thawing it in the refrigerator is the safest method.

Q: How do I prevent the turkey from drying out in the crock pot?
A: The crock pot’s moist environment helps keep the turkey breast juicy. However, be sure not to overcook it. Check the internal temperature regularly and remove it from the crock pot as soon as it reaches 165°F (74°C).

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can cook the turkey breast a day or two in advance. Let it cool completely, then store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Reheat it before serving.

Q: Can I add vegetables to the crock pot with the turkey?
A: Absolutely! Root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and parsnips work very well. Add them at the beginning of the cooking process so they have enough time to become tender.

Q: What if I don’t have all the seasonings listed in the recipe?
A: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking. A general poultry seasoning blend can be a good substitute for some of the individual spices.

Final Thoughts

This Seasoned Crock Pot Turkey Breast is a wonderful way to enjoy a delicious and tender turkey without the fuss of roasting a whole bird. It’s perfect for smaller gatherings, weeknight dinners, or anytime you crave that classic Thanksgiving flavor. I encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own! Experiment with different seasonings and variations to create a dish that perfectly suits your taste. Don’t forget to share your feedback and let me know how it turns out! Consider pairing it with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied Pinot Noir to complement the savory flavors of the turkey. Happy cooking!