Crock Pot Turkey Breast with Cranberry sauce

If you’re looking for a dish that combines ease, flavor, and comfort, you’ve come to the right place! My Crock Pot Turkey Breast with Cranberry sauce is a family favorite that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this recipe delivers delicious results with minimal effort. Plus, who says turkey is only for Thanksgiving? This savory-sweet dish can bring joy to your table all year long!

What I love most about this recipe is how the combination of tart cranberry and warm spices creates a fantastic balance of flavors. It’s so comforting and satisfying, making it hard to believe it takes just a few simple ingredients. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a few steps and your trusty crock pot, dinner is on its way without hours spent in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will enjoy the sweet and savory flavors, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prep! You can set it up in the morning and come home to a warm, hearty meal.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it with rice, mashed potatoes, or on its own! It fits seamlessly into any meal plan.
• Delicious Leftovers: The flavors only get better as they sit! Enjoy tasty leftovers for lunch the next day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these ingredients is a breeze! They are simple and wholesome, making this recipe approachable no matter your cooking skill level. Here’s what you’ll need for your Crock Pot Turkey Breast with Cranberry sauce:

For the Turkey

• 3 pound boneless, skinless frozen turkey breast (thawed)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 14 ounce can whole berry cranberry sauce (or substitute with tart cherry jam, applesauce, or pineapple chutney)
• 2 tbsp pure maple syrup (or substitute with honey)
• 1 tsp ground sage
• 1 tsp ground mustard powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 2 ounce envelope onion soup mix

For the Gravy

• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp cold water

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is how flexible it can be! Feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Instead of turkey breast, try chicken breast or even roasted vegetables for a vegetarian option!
• Change up the sauce: Don’t have cranberry sauce? Use apple chutney or even barbecue sauce for a totally different flavor profile.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in some baby carrots or chopped onions for added flavor and nutrition. They’ll cook down perfectly alongside the turkey!
• Spice it up: If you like things spicy, add some crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to give your dish an extra kick.

How to Make Crock Pot Turkey Breast with Cranberry sauce

Step 1: Prepare Your Crock Pot

Start by spraying your crock pot with nonstick cooking spray. This simple step ensures that your turkey won’t stick to the sides and helps keep cleanup easy later on.

Step 2: Add the Turkey

Place the thawed turkey breast in your crock pot while leaving any netting on. This helps keep its shape during cooking. Don’t forget to save that gravy packet if it’s included; you can use it later!

Step 3: Flavor It Up

Spread softened butter over the top of the turkey breast. This adds moisture and richer flavor during cooking. Then sprinkle your seasonings—sage, mustard powder, garlic powder—and watch those aromas start to mingle!

Step 4: Pour in Juices & Sauce

Now it’s time to pour in some orange juice along with the whole berry cranberry sauce and maple syrup. This combination not only infuses flavor but also keeps your turkey moist throughout its slow-cooking journey.

Step 5: Let It Cook

Cover your crock pot and set it to cook on low for five hours or high for three hours. The magic of slow cooking allows all those flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the turkey incredibly tender.

Step 6: Slice & Serve

Once done cooking, carefully place the turkey on a serving plate and remove any netting. Slice into beautiful pieces that are ready to soak up that delicious gravy we’ll make next!

Step 7: Make Your Gravy

Strain any remaining juices from the crock pot into a saucepan over medium-high heat. Mix cornstarch with cold water until smooth—this is your thickening agent. Pour this slurry into the juices while whisking until everything comes together in a rich gravy.

Step 8: Enjoy!

Pour that lovely gravy over your sliced turkey and serve immediately. Take a moment to enjoy how wonderful your kitchen smells as everyone gathers around for dinner!

Pro Tips for Making Crock Pot Turkey Breast with Cranberry Sauce

Making a delicious Crock Pot Turkey Breast with Cranberry Sauce is simple, but a few tips can ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

• Choose the right turkey breast: A boneless, skinless frozen turkey breast works best. Thawing it ensures even cooking and better flavor absorption from the sauce.
• Don’t skip the butter: Spreading softened butter on the turkey adds vital moisture and richness, resulting in a juicy and flavorful dish.
• Adjust seasonings to taste: Feel free to tweak the seasonings based on your preferences. Adding more sage or garlic powder can enhance the flavor profile to suit your family’s tastes.
• Use fresh ingredients when possible: While canned cranberry sauce is convenient, using fresh cranberries or homemade cranberry sauce can elevate the dish, giving it that extra burst of flavor.
• Let it rest before slicing: After cooking, allow the turkey to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps redistribute the juices, ensuring each slice is tender and juicy.

How to Serve Crock Pot Turkey Breast with Cranberry Sauce

Presenting your beautifully cooked turkey breast with its vibrant cranberry sauce is a delightful way to impress your family and guests. Here are some creative serving ideas:

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Chopped parsley or thyme sprinkled on top adds a pop of color and freshness to your dish.
• Orange slices: Thinly sliced oranges placed around the turkey not only look appealing but also complement the citrus notes in the sauce.

Side Dishes

• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make a classic pairing with turkey, perfect for soaking up that delicious cranberry sauce.
• Roasted seasonal vegetables: Colorful roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes add nutrition and texture to your meal.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cranberries, nuts, and greens offers a refreshing contrast to the savory turkey.
• Green bean almondine: Sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds provide a satisfying crunch and balance out the sweetness of the cranberry sauce.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Crock Pot Turkey Breast with Cranberry Sauce will not only be a hit at dinner but also create lasting memories around your table! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Crock Pot Turkey Breast with Cranberry sauce is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! Whether you’re planning for a busy week or looking to impress guests with minimal effort, this recipe holds up beautifully in the fridge and freezer.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
• Ensure the cooked turkey is cooled to room temperature before sealing it to avoid condensation.

Freezing

• For longer storage, you can freeze the sliced turkey.
• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in freezer bags.
• Label with the date and use within 2-3 months for best flavor.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen turkey overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Heat slices gently in a microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
• Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before serving.

FAQs

Got questions? Here are some common ones about our Crock Pot Turkey Breast with Cranberry sauce!

Can I use frozen turkey breast for the Crock Pot Turkey Breast with Cranberry sauce?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even results. You can start with a frozen turkey breast, but adjust your cooking time according to your slow cooker’s instructions.

How do I make gravy from the leftovers of my Crock Pot Turkey Breast with Cranberry sauce?

To make gravy, strain the cooking juices into a saucepan, mix cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry, and whisk it into the juices over medium-high heat until thickened. It’s simple and adds great flavor!

What should I serve alongside my Crock Pot Turkey Breast with Cranberry sauce?

Consider pairing your turkey with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. These sides complement the savory-sweet flavors perfectly!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Crock Pot Turkey Breast with Cranberry sauce as much as I do! It’s such a comforting dish that brings warmth to any table, whether it’s a special occasion or just a cozy family dinner. Enjoy every bite and feel free to get creative with your sides. Happy cooking!