Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast

Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast is a delicious and easy dish that’s perfect for various occasions, from Thanksgiving to family dinners. This recipe features tender turkey breast cooked to perfection in a slow cooker, infused with the sweet and tangy flavors of cranberry sauce and orange juice. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare this meal, making it a great choice for those busy days when you still want to serve something special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: With only a few simple steps, you can set it and forget it while the crock pot does all the work.
• Flavorful Dish: The combination of cranberry sauce and onion seasoning creates a savory-sweet profile that pleases any palate.
• Perfectly Moist Turkey: Cooking in the crock pot ensures that your turkey breast is juicy and tender every time.
• Versatile Serving Options: This dish pairs well with various sides, making it suitable for any occasion.
• Leftover Friendly: Enjoy the turkey as sandwiches or salads the next day—it’s just as delicious!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker (crock pot)
• Mixing bowl
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker (crock pot): This is the star of the show! It allows for hands-off cooking, resulting in perfectly tender meat.
• Mixing bowl: A must-have for combining ingredients easily before pouring them over your turkey.
• Medium saucepan: Used to thicken the gravy, ensuring it’s rich and flavorful.
• Whisk: Essential for mixing your cornstarch with water and ensuring your gravy comes out lump-free.

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Ingredients

Crock Pot Turkey Breast only needs 4 ingredients and you won’t believe how easy it is to make! Tender flaky, moist, fool-proof boneless turkey breast recipe that’s perfect for Thanksgiving.

Main Ingredients

• 1 (5-7 lbs) boneless turkey breast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper

Flavor Enhancers

• 1 can (14 oz) whole berry cranberry sauce
• 1 packet onion soup seasoning mix

Liquid Ingredients

• 1/2 cup orange juice

Thickening Agent

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon cold water

How to Make Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast

Step 1: Prepare the Turkey

1. Unwrap the boneless turkey breast, keeping the netting on.
2. Place it into your slow cooker.

Step 2: Seasoning

1. Sprinkle salt and pepper over the turkey and rub it in well.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine cranberry sauce, onion soup seasoning mix, and orange juice.
3. Pour this mixture over the seasoned turkey.

Step 3: Cook

1. Cover and cook on LOW heat for 5-7 hours.
2. Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 4: Resting Period

1. Carefully remove the turkey from the crock pot and place it on a serving plate.
2. Cover with aluminum foil to keep warm while preparing gravy.

Step 5: Make Gravy

1. Skim off fat from the liquid left in the crock pot.
2. Pour this liquid into a medium saucepan and bring to a boil.
3. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with cold water until smooth.
4. Once boiling, add cornstarch mixture to the saucepan and whisk until thickened; this should take about 1-2 minutes.

Step 6: Serve

1. Pour some of the gravy over sliced turkey breast before serving.
2. Transfer any remaining gravy into a jar for additional servings at the table.

Enjoy your Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast with family or friends!

How to Serve Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast

Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast is not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving. It pairs well with a variety of side dishes and can be used in different meal settings. Here are some creative ways to serve this dish.

On a Festive Platter

• Arrange slices of turkey on a large platter.
• Drizzle the gravy over the slices for an appealing presentation.

In Sandwiches

• Use leftover turkey in sandwiches with your favorite bread.
• Add lettuce, tomato, or cranberry sauce for extra flavor.

As a Salad Topping

• Serve shredded turkey over a bed of mixed greens.
• Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette or citrus dressing for a refreshing salad.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes.
• The gravy complements the potatoes perfectly, making it a comforting meal.

How to Perfect Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast

To ensure your Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast comes out tender and flavorful every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Choose the right size: Use a turkey breast that fits snugly in your crock pot for even cooking.
• Season generously: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper; they enhance the flavor of the turkey.
• Monitor cooking time: Cooking on LOW for 5-7 hours is key; check internal temperature for doneness.
• Let it rest: Allow the turkey to rest after cooking for juicier slices before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast

Complementing your Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast with the right side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes seasoned with garlic make a classic pairing that soaks up gravy beautifully.

2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   These caramelized sprouts add crunch and balance out the richness of the turkey.

3. Green Bean Almondine
   Sautéed green beans with toasted almonds offer a light and nutty contrast to the savory turkey.

4. Sweet Potato Casserole
   A sweet topping of marshmallows or pecans adds a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the turkey.

5. Stuffing
   Traditional stuffing provides a hearty base that works well with roasted meats like turkey.

6. Cranberry Sauce
   Fresh or canned cranberry sauce adds a tartness that beautifully complements the sweetness of the turkey gravy.

7. Cornbread Muffins
   Soft and slightly sweet cornbread muffins are perfect for soaking up any leftover gravy on your plate.

8. Cauliflower Rice Pilaf
   A light and healthy side, cauliflower rice pilaf can be flavored with herbs and spices to match your meal’s theme.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast, many people make simple mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.

• Not seasoning properly: Many forget to season the turkey breast adequately. Make sure to rub salt and pepper all over for enhanced flavor.
• Skipping the resting time: Cutting into the turkey immediately after cooking can cause it to lose moisture. Let it rest covered in foil for a few minutes for juicier meat.
• Ignoring temperature checks: Always check the internal temperature of the turkey. It should reach at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit for safe consumption.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Using subpar cranberry sauce or broth can negatively impact flavor. Opt for high-quality, whole berry cranberry sauce.
• Overcooking the turkey: While a slow cooker is forgiving, turkey breast can become dry if cooked too long. Stick to 5-7 hours on low heat.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover turkey in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast

• Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The turkey can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover the turkey with foil and heat until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place slices in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in intervals until hot, usually about 2-3 minutes.
• Stovetop: Heat sliced turkey in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the focus keyphrase for this recipe?

The focus keyphrase is Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast, which highlights this delicious slow-cooked dish.

Can I use other fruits instead of cranberry sauce?

Yes! You can substitute cranberry sauce with other fruit preserves like raspberry or blueberry for a different flavor profile.

How do I ensure my turkey breast stays moist?

Make sure not to overcook the turkey and allow it to rest before slicing to retain its juices.

Can I customize the seasonings in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add garlic powder, herbs, or spices according to your taste preferences.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast is perfect for meal prep as it stores well and is easy to reheat throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast is not only easy to prepare but also offers tender, flavorful meat that’s perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize flavors and pair it with various sides, making it an excellent choice for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its delicious results!