Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Recipe

Every Thanksgiving, we always make my grandma’s turkey recipe and her dressing in her roasting pan that she gave me —it’s a family tradition that never fails. But last year, I asked my husband, “Why is it that we only eat turkey at Thanksgiving?” Of course, preparing a whole turkey can be a lot of work, which explains why it tends to be reserved for special occasions. However, we found a way to enjoy delicious turkey throughout the year by cooking it in our slow cooker. Everyone has their favorite way to prepare turkey, but for those of you who don’t have a lot of time, this Slow Cooker Turkey Breast recipe is a perfect solution. It’s easy, flavorful, and perfect for those busy days when you still want a home-cooked meal without all the fuss.

If you’re looking for an easy, hands-off way to prepare a tender and juicy turkey breast, this slow cooker recipe is perfect for you. Whether it’s a small holiday meal or a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe is both flavorful and convenient. With just a few simple seasonings and minimal prep, you can enjoy a perfectly cooked turkey breast that’s juicy, tender, and full of flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 (3-pound) boneless turkey breast roast

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon thyme leaves

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ cup water

Directions:

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Spray the slow cooker liner with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Pour ½ cup of water into the bottom of the slow cooker.

2. Mix the Seasonings: In a small bowl, mix together the onion powder, garlic powder, salt, thyme leaves, and black pepper.

3. Season the Turkey: Rub the turkey breast with olive oil, then season it on all sides with the dry seasoning mixture.

4. Cook: Place the seasoned turkey breast into the slow cooker, cover, and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F using an instant-read thermometer.

5. Rest & Serve: Once the turkey breast is fully cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite sides for a complete meal.

FAQ:

Is cooking a turkey in a slow cooker safe?

Yes, cooking a turkey breast in a slow cooker is safe as long as it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Always use an instant-read thermometer to ensure your turkey is fully cooked and safe to eat. The slow cooker method also keeps the meat moist and prevents it from drying out.

Is it best to cook a turkey breast down?

While some recipes suggest cooking turkey breast side down to allow the juices to flow into the meat and keep it moist, this is optional for the slow cooker. Since the slow cooker uses a moist heat method, you can cook the turkey breast-side up without worrying about dryness. However, if you prefer, you can try cooking it breast-side down for added moisture.

Do You Add Water When Cooking a Turkey Breast?

Yes, adding water to the slow cooker is important for this recipe. The ½ cup of water helps create steam, which keeps the turkey moist as it cooks and prevents it from drying out.

Should I Use a Crockpot Liner?

It’s a common concern to wonder whether slow cooker liners are safe to use, especially when you’re mindful about avoiding plastic in cooking. Slow cooker liners are generally made from heat-resistant, BPA-free nylon that’s FDA-approved for food safety. However, if you’re trying to avoid plastic in any form while cooking, it’s understandable that you might prefer to skip using liners altogether.

(I DON”T USE THEM)

The good news is that you don’t need liners to cook in a slow cooker. You can simply spray the inside with nonstick cooking spray or use a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. I like to use an olive oil sprayer. This way, you can keep your slow cooker clean without using any plastic, and it aligns with your preference for avoiding plastics in your kitchen!

Can I Use Fresh Herbs Instead of Dried?

Yes! If you have fresh thyme or other fresh herbs on hand, feel free to use them. Fresh herbs will add a brighter flavor to the turkey. You’ll need about three times the amount of fresh herbs as dried.

Can I Make Gravy with the Drippings?

Absolutely! The juices left at the bottom of the slow cooker can be used to make a simple gravy. After cooking, strain the liquid and add it to a saucepan. Whisk in a little flour or cornstarch to thicken, and season as needed.

What Sides Go Best with Slow Cooker Turkey Breast?

Classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, my grandma’s homemade dressing, and cranberry sauce pair wonderfully with this turkey breast. You can also serve it alongside a light salad,rolls or cornbread for a more casual meal.

This Slow Cooker Turkey Breast recipe is perfect for a hassle-free dinner that’s big on flavor but requires minimal effort. Whether you’re making it for a holiday or just a comforting dinner at home, this dish is sure to please!

More Slow Cooker Recipes:

• 8 Chicken Freezer Meals for Your Slow Cooker
• 12 Time-Saving Slow Cooker Recipes: Effortless Cooking Solutions

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