Growing up, family dinners were special moments. The smell of a roasted turkey filled our kitchen. These moments made lasting memories.
Today, I’m sharing a simple slow cooker turkey breast recipe. It brings warmth and ease to your table.
Cooking a Butterball boneless turkey breast in a slow cooker is easy. It’s perfect for busy parents, new cooks, or anyone who wants less effort. This recipe is your go-to solution.
Imagine tender, juicy turkey that’s easy to prepare. A Butterball boneless turkey breast in a slow cooker makes cooking simple. No more dry meat or complicated roasting.
This method is very versatile. A 6-8 pound turkey breast feeds many, leaving plenty for leftovers. Cooking times range from 2.5 to 7 hours, ensuring perfect turkey every time.
Why Cook Turkey Breast in a Slow Cooker
Discovering the magic of a turkey breast crock pot recipe can change your cooking. Slow cookers make cooking juicy turkey breast easy and perfect every time.
Slow cooking turkey is not just easy—it’s a smart way to cook. It keeps the meat moist and adds flavor. The slow heat helps keep the juices in and makes the meat taste better.
Benefits of Slow Cooking Method
- Locks in natural turkey juices
- Prevents meat from drying out
- Requires minimal monitoring
- Allows deeper flavor infusion
Time and Energy Efficiency
Your slow cooker saves you time in the kitchen. It cooks turkey in 4-6 hours on low heat. This frees up your oven and saves you time. A 3-pound turkey breast cooks in about 4 hours to 170°F.
Guaranteed Moisture Retention
Slow cooking is better than oven roasting for keeping turkey moist. It uses just 4 tablespoons of butter and special seasonings. This makes a juicy slow cooker turkey breast that’s both tasty and tender.
The slow cooking method ensures the turkey cooks evenly. This prevents it from becoming tough or dry. Your turkey will be juicy and full of flavor, impressing everyone.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Slow Cooker Turkey
Starting a delicious slow cooker turkey meal means picking the right ingredients. Your boneless Butterball turkey breast needs a mix of ingredients for great taste and tenderness.
Key Ingredients Breakdown
- 1 Butterball boneless turkey breast (3-4 pounds)
- 4 tablespoons salted butter
- 2 teaspoons granulated garlic
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
When you’re prepping your boneless Butterball turkey breast, the quality of your ingredients is key. Fresh herbs and quality spices can turn a simple slow cooker turkey into a standout dish.
Ingredient Selection Tips
Opt for a turkey breast of 2-4 pounds for the best cooking results. Fresh herbs add more vibrant flavors than dried ones. Kosher salt is great for seasoning because it deeply penetrates the meat.
| Ingredient | Purpose | Recommended Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Butterball Turkey Breast | Primary Protein | 3-4 lbs |
| Salted Butter | Moisture & Flavor | 4 tablespoons |
| Chicken Broth | Added Moisture | 1/2 cup |
| Paprika | Color & Mild Flavor | 1 teaspoon |
With these chosen ingredients, your slow cooker turkey recipe will be a hit. Each part is important for a dish that’s both tasty and tender, loved by all.
Preparing Your Butterball Boneless Turkey Breast in Slow Cooker
Cooking a turkey breast in a slow cooker is easy with the right steps. You’ll get a moist, flavorful Butterball boneless turkey breast that’s perfectly cooked.
Thawing Your Turkey Breast
Thawing your turkey breast is key for safety and great taste. Here’s how to do it right:
- Remove the Butterball boneless turkey breast from its packaging
- Keep the mesh netting intact
- Thaw completely in the refrigerator (24-48 hours)
- Pat dry with paper towels before cooking
Seasoning and Butter Preparation
Make your turkey breast recipe even better with a tasty seasoning blend:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter | 4 tablespoons |
| Ranch Seasoning | 1 ounce packet |
| Brown Gravy Mix | 2 x 0.87 ounce packets |
Slow Cooker Setup
Setting up your slow cooker is important for a juicy turkey breast:
- Grease the slow cooker interior
- Create a bed of aromatics like onions and garlic
- Gently place the seasoned turkey breast on top
- Add 1.5 cups of water to the bottom of the cooker
Pro tip: Massage the butter and seasoning mixture under the skin for maximum flavor absorption.
The Perfect Herb and Seasoning Blend
Making the perfect seasoning blend can turn your slow cooker turkey breast recipe into something amazing. The right mix of herbs and spices can make your healthy turkey breast slow cooker dish taste even better.
Your seasoning blend should be both tasty and healthy. Here’s a classic mix that makes your turkey breast shine:
- Granulated Garlic: Adds depth and aromatic warmth
- Dried Parsley: Provides a fresh, mild herbaceous note
- Kosher Salt: Enhances natural turkey flavors
- Black Pepper: Introduces a subtle kick
- Paprika: Contributes color and gentle smokiness
Want to try something different? Here are some flavor variations:
| Flavor Profile | Key Spices | Recommended Use |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional Herb | Rosemary, Thyme, Sage | Classic Thanksgiving-style |
| Spicy Kick | Cayenne, Red Pepper Flakes | Bold, zesty option |
| Mediterranean | Oregano, Basil, Lemon Zest | Bright, fresh flavors |
Pro tip: Don’t be afraid to try new seasonings, but always keep the core herbs that go well with turkey. A healthy turkey breast slow cooker recipe needs balanced, thoughtful seasoning to taste great.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Preparing a delicious turkey breast in a slow cooker needs precision and care. Your butterball boneless turkey breast in slow cooker will be perfect if you follow these essential cooking guidelines.
Temperature Settings for Optimal Results
Cooking your turkey breast in a crock pot recipe requires careful temperature management. Choose the low setting for the most tender and juicy results. Here are the recommended settings:
- Low setting: 6 hours for 6-8 pound turkey breast
- High setting: 3 hours for smaller turkey breasts
- Ideal cooking temperature: Maintain a consistent low heat
Detailed Cooking Time Guidelines
Different turkey breast sizes need slight adjustments to cooking times. Use these guidelines for your turkey breast crock pot recipe:
| Turkey Breast Weight | Cooking Time (Low Setting) | Servings |
|---|---|---|
| 6-7 pounds | 5-6 hours | 6-8 people |
| 8-9 pounds | 6-7 hours | 8-10 people |
Internal Temperature Verification
Food safety is key when preparing poultry. Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The golden rule: your turkey must reach 165°F throughout.
- Insert thermometer into thickest part of the breast
- Avoid touching bone for accurate reading
- Check temperature in multiple spots
Pro tip: If your turkey hasn’t reached the safe temperature, continue cooking in 15-minute increments. Patience ensures a perfectly cooked, safe, and delicious meal.
Creating Rich and Flavorful Gravy
After cooking your juicy slow cooker turkey breast, making a delicious gravy is the final touch. The juices from your turkey are perfect for a tasty sauce. This sauce will make your whole meal even better.
To start making gravy, collect the flavorful drippings from the slow cooker. These drippings are full of turkey flavor. They will make a rich and delicious sauce.
Classic Gravy Ingredients
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups turkey drippings
- Salt and pepper to taste
To make a traditional flour-based gravy, melt butter in a saucepan. Then, whisk in flour to make a smooth roux. Cook for 2-3 minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste. Slowly add your drippings, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
Gluten-Free Alternative
- Replace flour with cornstarch
- Mix cornstarch with cold water before adding
- Whisk continuously for smooth consistency
Add herbs like thyme or rosemary to your gravy. Simmer until it’s the right thickness. A well-made gravy will turn your turkey into a memorable meal.
Pro tip: Let your gravy rest for a few minutes before serving. This lets the flavors fully develop.
Achieving Crispy Skin Through Broiling
After cooking your slow cooker turkey breast, you might want that golden, crispy exterior. The Butterball boneless turkey breast in slow cooker can get a crispy skin with a quick broil.
Broiling Technique for Perfect Texture
Broiling gives you crispy skin without drying out the meat. Here’s how to broil your slow-cooked turkey breast:
- Remove the turkey from the slow cooker carefully
- Place on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil
- Position the oven rack 5-6 inches from the broiler
Precise Broiling Guidelines
For the best results with your butterball boneless turkey breast in slow cooker, follow these steps:
| Turkey Size | Broiling Time | Target Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| 2-3 lbs | 2-3 minutes | 160-165°F |
| 4-5 lbs | 3-4 minutes | 160-165°F |
Safety Precautions
Broiling needs careful watching to avoid burning. Watch your turkey breast carefully and use oven mitts. Keep children and pets away from the hot oven. If the skin browns too quickly, reduce broiling time or move the rack slightly lower.
Your slow cooker turkey breast recipe can now finish with a professional touch. It will have both juicy meat and crispy skin that will impress your dinner guests.
Storage and Leftover Management
After making your easy turkey breast slow cooker recipe, it’s important to store it right. This keeps the flavor and ensures food safety. You can turn your turkey into several meals with the right storage.
First, refrigerate your turkey to keep it fresh and tasty. Use an airtight container to stop moisture loss and keep the taste. Here are some storage tips:
- Refrigerator Storage: Keep leftover turkey for 3-4 days
- Freezer Storage: Preserve turkey slices up to 3 months
- Use sealed containers or freezer bags to prevent freezer burn
When reheating your turkey, be gentle to avoid drying it out. Recommended reheating methods include:
- Oven method: Warm at 325°F with a splash of broth
- Microwave: Use medium power and cover with a damp paper towel
- Skillet: Reheat with a small amount of butter or oil
| Storage Method | Duration | Best Practices |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3-4 days | Use airtight container |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Wrap tightly, remove air |
There are many ways to use leftover turkey. You can make sandwiches, salads, or add it to casseroles. These ideas help you enjoy healthy turkey breast in new ways all week long.
Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes
Your slow cooker turkey breast deserves amazing sides to make your meal unforgettable. The right side dishes can turn a good meal into an extraordinary one.
Traditional Thanksgiving Pairings
Classic side dishes go great with your juicy turkey breast. Here are some traditional favorites:
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Classic green bean casserole
- Homemade cranberry sauce
- Buttery dinner rolls
- Savory stuffing
Modern Accompaniments
If you want something new and healthier, try these modern sides:
- Quinoa salad with roasted vegetables
- Maple-glazed roasted Brussels sprouts
- Mediterranean couscous
- Cauliflower rice
- Herbed sweet potato mash
| Side Dish Category | Recommended Pairings | Preparation Time |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional | Mashed Potatoes | 20 minutes |
| Healthy | Quinoa Salad | 15 minutes |
| Vegetable | Roasted Brussels Sprouts | 25 minutes |
Your slow cooker turkey breast can be the centerpiece of many meals. Pro tip: Use leftovers for sandwiches, salads, or quick meals. Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Pair your turkey with light white wines like Pinot Grigio or non-alcoholic sparkling cider. Presentation is key – arrange your sides nicely to make your meal inviting.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Cooking a Butterball boneless turkey breast in a slow cooker can sometimes be tricky. But don’t worry! This guide will help you fix common problems and make sure your meal is delicious.
When you’re making your turkey breast crock pot recipe, remember these common issues:
- Dry Turkey: If your turkey is dry, try these fixes:
- Baste with reserved cooking juices
- Create a rich gravy to add moisture
- Reduce cooking time by 15-30 minutes
- Undercooked Turkey: Always check the internal temperature
- Ensure meat reaches 165°F
- Use a reliable meat thermometer
- Extend cooking time in 15-minute increments
Slow cooking is forgiving for turkey breast. You can adjust and fix small mistakes because of the larger window of doneness.
| Issue | Quick Fix |
|---|---|
| Thin Gravy | Mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with cold water, stir into hot gravy |
| Lack of Flavor | Add additional herbs or seasoning during last 30 minutes |
| Uneven Cooking | Rotate turkey breast halfway through cooking |
Remember, the more you practice, the better you’ll get at cooking a butterball boneless turkey breast in a slow cooker. Each try helps you learn your slow cooker’s unique ways.
Conclusion
Your journey to a juicy slow cooker turkey breast doesn’t stop after you eat it. This method makes cooking turkey easy and stress-free. It gives you delicious results with little effort.
This easy turkey breast slow cooker technique is simple and flexible. It works for holidays or weeknight dinners. Each serving has 66 grams of protein and only 317 calories, perfect for health lovers.
Getting good at this recipe takes time, but it’s worth it. You can keep leftovers in the fridge for 3 days or freeze them. Your slow cooker now makes amazing turkey that everyone wants more of.
We encourage you to share your experiences with this recipe. Try new seasonings and side dishes. Make it your own. Cooking should be fun, and this recipe is a great place to start.
FAQ
How long does it take to cook a Butterball boneless turkey breast in a slow cooker?
Cooking time varies based on the turkey’s size. A 2-3 pound breast cooks in about 4 hours. Larger ones might need up to 6 hours. Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it’s 165°F.
Do I need to thaw the Butterball turkey breast before cooking in the slow cooker?
Yes, thaw the turkey in the fridge before cooking. It takes 1-2 days, depending on size. Never cook a frozen turkey to avoid unsafe temperatures and uneven cooking.
Can I add liquid to the slow cooker when cooking turkey breast?
Adding 1/2 cup of chicken broth or water helps keep the turkey moist. The turkey will also release juices, making a tasty gravy.
How do I get crispy skin when using a slow cooker?
Slow cookers don’t make crispy skin. To get a golden exterior, broil the turkey on a baking sheet for 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to burn it, and make sure it’s safe to eat.
What seasonings work best for a Butterball turkey breast in the slow cooker?
Use dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, sage, and parsley. Add salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. You can also use pre-mixed poultry seasoning or make your own blend.
How long can I store leftover slow cooker turkey breast?
Refrigerate leftovers within two hours and store in an airtight container. They last 3-4 days in the fridge. Freeze for up to 4 months if you need longer storage.
Can I cook a frozen turkey breast in the slow cooker?
No, it’s not safe to cook a frozen turkey in the slow cooker. Always thaw it in the fridge before cooking for even cooking and safety.
What internal temperature indicates the turkey breast is fully cooked?
The turkey is ready when it reaches 165°F. Use a meat thermometer in the thickest part of the breast. Make sure not to touch bone for an accurate reading.