Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast

Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast is the perfect dish for any gathering or holiday feast. This recipe is easy to follow and requires minimal prep time, making it suitable for busy hosts. The combination of tangy cranberry sauce and savory spices creates a delightful flavor profile that will impress your guests. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving, Christmas, or simply enjoying a family dinner, this turkey breast will be a standout centerpiece on your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: With only four main ingredients, this recipe is simple and quick to put together.
• Flavorful: The mix of cranberry sauce and orange juice adds a deliciously unique taste to the turkey.
• Tender Texture: Slow cooking ensures the turkey breast remains tender and juicy every time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a main dish or use leftovers in sandwiches or salads.
• Perfect for Gatherings: This dish can easily serve up to eight people, making it ideal for holiday feasts.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools to ensure everything goes smoothly. These tools help simplify the cooking process and enhance your experience in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Medium saucepan
• Serving plate

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is crucial for achieving that tender, fall-apart texture in the turkey while allowing you to prepare other dishes.
• Mixing bowl: A good mixing bowl makes it easy to combine ingredients without mess.
• Whisk: Using a whisk helps ensure that your gravy comes out smooth and lump-free.
• Medium saucepan: Essential for thickening the sauce on the stovetop after slow cooking.

Ingredients

To prepare this delicious Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast, gather the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients

• 1 (5-7 lbs) boneless turkey breast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1 can (14 oz) whole berry cranberry sauce
• 1 packet onion soup seasoning mix
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon cold water

How to Make Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast

Step 1: Prepare the Turkey

Unwrap the turkey breast, ensuring you leave the netting on. Place it into your slow cooker.

Step 2: Season the Turkey

Sprinkle salt and pepper over the turkey breast and rub them in evenly.

Step 3: Combine Sauce Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the cranberry sauce, onion seasoning mix, and orange juice. Pour this mixture over the turkey in the slow cooker.

Step 4: Cook in Slow Cooker

Set your slow cooker on LOW heat and cook for 5–7 hours. The internal temperature should reach at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit; mine typically cooks perfectly at around 6 hours.

Step 5: Remove Turkey & Prepare Gravy

Once cooked, take the turkey breast out of the crock pot and place it onto a serving plate. Cover with tin foil to keep warm. Skim off any fat from the crock pot’s liquid and pour it into a medium saucepan.

Step 6: Thicken Gravy

Mix together cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl. Bring the remaining liquid from the slow cooker to a boil in your saucepan. Once boiling, add the cornstarch mixture, whisking continuously until thickened—this should take about 1–2 minutes.

Step 7: Serve

Pour some of the gravy over your turkey breast before serving. Consider transferring any extra gravy into a jar so guests can help themselves with their portions.

Enjoy this flavorful Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast at your next meal!

How to Serve Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast

Serving Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast is an enjoyable experience that enhances any meal. This dish pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes that elevate its flavors.

Sandwiches

• Use slices of the turkey breast to create delicious sandwiches. Add cranberry sauce and lettuce for freshness.

Salads

• Serve the turkey atop a bed of mixed greens. Drizzle with a light vinaigrette and add sliced oranges for a refreshing touch.

Tacos

• Shred the turkey and use it as a filling for tacos. Top with avocado, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for a zesty flavor.

Grain Bowls

• Create grain bowls by adding the turkey over quinoa or brown rice. Include roasted vegetables for added texture and nutrition.

How to Perfect Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast

To achieve the best results with your Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast, follow these tips for a tender and flavorful dish.

• Choose the right size turkey breast: Opt for a 5-7 pound boneless turkey breast to ensure even cooking and sufficient servings.
• Season well: Don’t skip on seasoning the turkey with salt and pepper before cooking to enhance its natural flavors.
• Use fresh ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh cranberry sauce and freshly squeezed orange juice to elevate the taste.
• Monitor cooking time: Keep an eye on the cooking time; use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F.
• Rest before slicing: Allow the turkey breast to rest covered in foil for about 10 minutes after cooking to retain moisture before slicing.
• Make extra gravy: Save some of the cooking liquid and thicken it into gravy for serving; it adds great flavor to each bite.

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast

Pairing side dishes with your Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic complement the savory notes of the turkey perfectly.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts add a crunchy texture and earthy flavor that balance well with sweetness from cranberry sauce.
3. Stuffing: A classic stuffing made with bread, herbs, and vegetables provides hearty satisfaction alongside your turkey.
4. Green Bean Casserole: This comforting dish brings creamy goodness topped with crispy onions, perfect for holiday gatherings.
5. Cranberry Salad: A refreshing salad with cranberries, walnuts, and spinach adds brightness that pairs wonderfully with cooked turkey.
6. Sweet Potato Casserole: Sweet potatoes bring natural sweetness, especially when topped with marshmallows or pecans for added crunch.
7. Cornbread Muffins: Fluffy cornbread muffins are great for soaking up gravy and provide a delightful contrast in texture.
8. Wild Rice Pilaf: A nutty wild rice pilaf adds depth and complements the flavors of the turkey without overpowering them.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the outcome of your dish.

• Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting to season the turkey can lead to bland flavors. Always ensure you sprinkle salt and pepper generously before cooking.
• Using a too-small slow cooker: A small slow cooker may not accommodate a 5-7 lbs turkey breast. Make sure your crock pot is large enough for even cooking.
• Not checking the internal temperature: It’s crucial to check that your turkey reaches an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
• Overcooking or undercooking: Cooking times can vary based on the size of the turkey and your crock pot’s temperature settings. Monitor cooking time to ensure perfect doneness.
• Ignoring the sauce: The sauce from the slow cooker can add great flavor; don’t skip making gravy from it. Follow the thickening instructions carefully for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover turkey in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast

• Freeze leftovers in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• It will keep well for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place slices on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat in short intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Slice turkey and reheat in a skillet over low heat with a little broth or water until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast.

Can I use frozen turkey breast?

Yes, you can use a frozen turkey breast. Just make sure it’s fully thawed before placing it in the crock pot for even cooking.

How long does it take to cook Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast?

The cooking time is typically between 5-7 hours on LOW heat, depending on the size of your turkey breast.

Can I customize the cranberry sauce?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other ingredients like orange zest or spices for added flavor.

What side dishes go well with this recipe?

This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, green beans, or cranberry salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast is an easy and flavorful dish perfect for any gathering. Its tender meat absorbs delicious flavors from cranberry sauce and spices, making it a crowd-pleaser. You can customize this recipe by adding different herbs or sides. Give it a try and enjoy a hassle-free cooking experience!