Easy Delicious Crockpot Turkey Breast with Cranberry Cider Gravy Recipe
Introduction
This easy crockpot turkey breast recipe is perfect for a hands-off, flavorful meal. The slow cooking ensures tender, juicy turkey paired with a rich, savory gravy that’s enhanced by cranberry sauce and apple cider. It’s a simple way to enjoy a comforting dish any time of year.
Ingredients
- 1 (3 pound) boneless turkey breast, such as Butterball®, with gravy packet
- 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons poultry seasoning
- 1 (1 ounce) packet onion soup mix
- 1 cup whole berry cranberry sauce
- 1/2 cup apple cider
- 3 tablespoons cold water
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions
- Step 1: Remove the gravy packet from the turkey package and set it aside. Keep the netting around the turkey breast while cooking.
- Step 2: Season the turkey evenly with kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and poultry seasoning. Place the seasoned turkey in the slow cooker.
- Step 3: Sprinkle the onion soup mix and top with the whole berry cranberry sauce. Pour apple cider around the turkey in the slow cooker.
- Step 4: Cook on High for 2 1/2 to 3 hours or on Low for 5 to 6 hours, until the turkey is cooked through and tender.
- Step 5: Carefully remove the netting with kitchen shears and let the turkey rest while you prepare the sauce.
- Step 6: Strain the liquid from the slow cooker into a small saucepan. Stir in the reserved gravy packet and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
- Step 7: In a small bowl, whisk together cold water and cornstarch until dissolved. Gradually whisk this into the simmering gravy and cook until thickened.
- Step 8: Slice the turkey breast and serve it with the thickened gravy.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, rub the turkey breast with a bit of olive oil before seasoning.
- Substitute apple cider with white grape juice for a milder sweetness.
- Add sliced onions or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the slow cooker for added aroma and depth.
- If you prefer a smokier flavor, sprinkle in a pinch of smoked paprika with the seasonings.
Storage
Store leftover turkey and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the gravy if needed.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen turkey breast in this recipe?
It’s best to use fully thawed turkey breast for even cooking in the crockpot. Cooking from frozen could result in unevenly cooked meat.
How do I know when the turkey is done?
The turkey is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part to check for doneness.
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Easy Delicious Crockpot Turkey Breast with Cranberry Cider Gravy Recipe
- Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes (High) or 6 hours 10 minutes (Low)
- Yield: 4 to 6 servings 1x
Description
This Easy Delicious Crockpot Turkey Breast recipe is a simple and convenient way to prepare a tender, flavorful turkey using a slow cooker. The turkey is seasoned with a blend of spices and cooked with cranberry sauce, onion soup mix, and apple cider to create a moist, savory dish perfect for a comforting meal without the hassle of traditional roasting.
Ingredients
Turkey and Seasoning
- 1 (3 pound) boneless turkey breast, such as Butterball®, with gravy packet
- 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons poultry seasoning
- 1 (1 ounce) packet onion soup mix
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup whole berry cranberry sauce
- 1/2 cup apple cider
- 3 tablespoons cold water
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions
- Prepare the Turkey: Remove the gravy packet from the turkey package and set it aside. Leave the netting around the turkey while cooking to help it keep its shape.
- Season the Turkey: Evenly season the turkey all over with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and poultry seasoning. This flavorful blend enhances the turkey’s natural taste.
- Place in Slow Cooker: Place the seasoned turkey breast in the slow cooker. Sprinkle the packet of onion soup mix on top of the turkey, then spread the whole berry cranberry sauce over it. Pour the apple cider around the turkey, being careful not to wash off the seasonings.
- Cook the Turkey: Cover and cook on High for 2 1/2 to 3 hours or on Low for 5 to 6 hours. The turkey should reach a safe internal temperature and become tender during this slow cooking process.
- Remove Netting and Rest: Carefully cut and remove the netting with kitchen shears. Let the turkey rest while preparing the sauce to retain juices and ensure moistness.
- Make the Gravy: Strain the liquid from the slow cooker into a small saucepan to remove solids. Stir in the reserved gravy packet and bring the liquid to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of cold water and 1 tablespoon cornstarch until dissolved. Slowly whisk this mixture into the simmering gravy and continue simmering until the sauce thickens to desired consistency.
- Serve: Slice the turkey breast and serve it warm topped with the rich cranberry-infused gravy.
Notes
- For best flavor, use fresh poultry seasoning or a good quality pre-mixed blend.
- Make sure the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Leaving the netting on during cooking helps the turkey keep its shape but be sure to remove it before slicing.
- You can substitute apple cider with apple juice or chicken broth if preferred.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours (High) or 6 hours (Low)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: slow cooker turkey breast, crockpot turkey, easy turkey recipe, cranberry turkey, holiday turkey, simple turkey breast
