Crock Pot Turkey Breast with Cranberry Sauce offers a delightful combination of juicy turkey and tangy cranberry, making it the perfect dish for any occasion. With minimal effort, this recipe results in a moist, flavorful turkey that is perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. The step-by-step process ensures that even novice cooks can achieve a delicious result, which is exactly why you’ll want to bookmark this easy, comforting dish.

Ingredients

For this delectable Crock Pot Turkey Breast with Cranberry Sauce, you will need a 3-pound boneless, skinless frozen turkey breast, which once thawed, will become a succulent centerpiece. The turkey will be enhanced with 2 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter that provides a rich, creamy flavor. Adding a half cup of vibrant orange juice brings a zesty sweetness, while a 14-ounce can of whole berry cranberry sauce infuses a tart, fruity flavor that balances beautifully with the turkey.

To deepen the flavor, you’ll use 2 tablespoons of pure maple syrup, along with 1 teaspoon each of ground sage, ground mustard powder, and garlic powder. The addition of a 2-ounce envelope of onion soup mix adds aromatic depth, while a slurry made from 2 tablespoons of cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of cold water gives the final gravy a perfect thickness.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the Crock Pot: Start by spraying your crock pot with nonstick cooking spray to ensure the turkey doesn’t stick and makes for easy cleanup.

2. Add the Turkey: Gently place the thawed turkey breast into the crock pot while keeping the netting intact to help it retain its shape during cooking.

3. Flavor with Butter and Spices: Spread the softened butter generously over the top of the turkey. Sprinkle the ground sage, mustard powder, and garlic powder evenly across the butter to coat the turkey in savory goodness.

4. Pour in the Juices: Next, add the vibrant orange juice, the sweet whole berry cranberry sauce, and pure maple syrup into the crock pot around the turkey.

5. Set the Cooking Time: Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 5 hours or on high for 3 hours, allowing the turkey to absorb all those delightful flavors as it cooks.

6. Slice and Serve: Once cooked, carefully remove the turkey from the crock pot and place it on a serving platter. Remove the netting and slice it into tender pieces.

7. Make the Gravy: Strain the cooking juices into a saucepan over medium-high heat. In a separate bowl, mix the cornstarch and cold water to create a slurry, then pour this into the saucepan. Whisk continuously over medium-high heat until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.

8. Drizzle and Enjoy: Finally, pour the luscious gravy over the sliced turkey, and it’s ready to serve!

Tips & Tricks

• Thaw Properly: Make sure to thaw your turkey breast in the fridge overnight for best results and ensure even cooking.
• Flavor Boost: Add some chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to heighten the aromatic profile.
• Crispier Skin: If you prefer a crispy skin, you can finish the turkey in the oven at 425°F for 15-20 minutes after removing it from the crock pot.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Crock Pot Turkey Breast with Cranberry Sauce is fantastic served with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted seasonal vegetables, or a festive stuffing. For a lighter option, a fresh green salad with a citrus vinaigrette perfectly complements the rich flavors of the turkey. This dish is ideal for Thanksgiving, holiday feasts, or simply a comforting family dinner.

Nutritional Information

One serving of Crock Pot Turkey Breast with Cranberry Sauce provides approximately 300 calories. This dish is a good source of protein, dietary fiber, and essential vitamins, making it a hearty yet balanced choice. Incorporating wholesome sides can maintain a well-rounded meal.

Storing Tips & Variations

To store, place any leftover turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it can last up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze the turkey and gravy for up to 3 months. When reheating, do so gently in the oven or microwave to preserve moisture. Variations include using apple sauce or pineapple chutney in place of cranberry sauce for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

Crock Pot Turkey Breast with Cranberry Sauce is an easy and satisfying dish that captures the essence of comfort eating. Its savory-sweet flavor will surely bring joy to your dining table. Try this recipe and discover how effortless it can be to create a meal that delights the senses. Don’t forget to share your experience and any tweaks you made!

FAQs

1. Can I use a frozen turkey breast?
   Yes, this recipe is designed for a frozen turkey breast, but ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking for the best results.

2. What if I don’t have maple syrup?
   You can substitute maple syrup with honey for a similar sweetness.

3. Can I cook this on high if I’m short on time?
   Absolutely! Cooking on high for 3 hours will yield tender turkey, though it may not be as juicy as cooking on low.

4. Do I need to add water to the crock pot?
   No additional water is needed since the turkey and other ingredients create enough liquid as they cook.

5. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
   Ensure the onion soup mix and cornstarch are gluten-free, and you’re good to go!

Crock Pot Turkey Breast with Cranberry Sauce

A delightful combination of juicy turkey and tangy cranberry, perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 5 hours hrs

Total Time 5 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 300

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 3 pounds boneless, skinless frozen turkey breast Thawed before use
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter Softened
• 1/2 cup orange juice Vibrant and zesty
• 14 ounces whole berry cranberry sauce For tart flavor
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup To enhance sweetness
• 1 teaspoon ground sage
• 1 teaspoon ground mustard powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 ounces onion soup mix For additional flavor
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch For thickening gravy
• 2 tablespoons cold water To mix with cornstarch

Method

 

Preparation

1. Start by spraying your crock pot with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Gently place the thawed turkey breast into the crock pot while keeping the netting intact.
3. Spread the softened butter generously over the top of the turkey.
4. Sprinkle the sage, mustard powder, and garlic powder evenly across the turkey.
5. Add the orange juice, cranberry sauce, and maple syrup around the turkey in the crock pot.

Cooking

1. Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 5 hours or on high for 3 hours.
2. Once cooked, carefully remove the turkey from the crock pot and place it on a serving platter.
3. Remove the netting and slice the turkey into tender pieces.

Making the Gravy

1. Strain the cooking juices into a saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. In a separate bowl, mix the cornstarch and cold water to create a slurry.
3. Pour the slurry into the saucepan and whisk continuously until the gravy thickens.

Serving

1. Pour the gravy over the sliced turkey and serve.

Notes

Ensure to thaw turkey in the fridge overnight. Optional: add fresh herbs for added flavor. Optionally, finish in the oven for a crispy texture.