Thanksgiving is such a magical time of year, isn’t it? The smell of roasted turkey fills the air, and the excitement of gathering with family and friends is palpable. But let’s be real—sometimes preparing that perfect Thanksgiving feast can feel a bit overwhelming. That’s where my **crockpot recipes for Thanksgiving** come to the rescue! This simple and delicious turkey breast dish is a game-changer. You can set it and forget it while you tackle the rest of your holiday to-do list. Plus, the combination of tender turkey, savory vegetables, and a hint of cranberry sauce creates a flavor explosion that’s sure to impress your guests. Trust me, this crockpot turkey is not just easy; it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings everyone together for a cozy, memorable meal. Let’s dive in and make your Thanksgiving stress-free and delicious!
Ingredients List
Gather these simple yet essential ingredients for a mouthwatering Thanksgiving turkey that’s cooked to perfection in your crockpot:
- 4 lbs turkey breast: Choose a boneless, skinless turkey breast for easy shredding and maximum flavor.
- 1 cup chicken broth: This adds moisture and richness, ensuring your turkey stays juicy.
- 1 onion, chopped: A classic aromatic that brings out the savory flavors.
- 2 carrots, sliced: For a touch of sweetness and vibrant color.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped: Adds crunch and depth to the dish.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Because garlic makes everything better!
- 1 tsp salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
- 1 tsp pepper: A dash of spice to wake up your taste buds.
- 1 tsp thyme: This herb adds a warm, earthy note.
- 1 tsp rosemary: Complements the turkey beautifully with its aromatic essence.
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce: A delightful sweet-tart topping that elevates the dish!
How to Prepare Instructions
Alright, let’s get cooking! This process is super straightforward, and I promise you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to whip up this delicious Thanksgiving turkey in your crockpot.
Step 1: Preparing the Turkey
First things first, grab that beautiful 4-pound turkey breast! Make sure it’s thawed if it was frozen. Place it right in the center of your crockpot—no need for fancy arrangements here! Just plop it down and get ready for the magic to happen.
Step 2: Adding Vegetables and Broth
Now, it’s time to layer in those lovely veggies. Toss in the chopped onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery around the turkey. Then, pour in 1 cup of chicken broth. This not only adds flavor but also keeps everything moist and tender, ensuring your turkey is juicy and delightful!
Step 3: Seasoning and Adding Cranberry Sauce
Next, sprinkle the salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary generously over the turkey and veggies. Don’t be shy with the seasoning—this is where the flavor really comes alive! Finally, take that half cup of cranberry sauce and spread it over the top of the turkey. It’s like a sweet little hat that adds a burst of tangy goodness to every bite!
Step 4: Cooking Instructions
Cover your crockpot with the lid and set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. I love starting this in the morning so it’s ready by dinner time! You’ll know it’s done when the turkey hits an internal temperature of 165°F (use a meat thermometer for peace of mind!).
Step 5: Shredding and Serving
When the cooking time is up, carefully remove the turkey from the crockpot (it’ll be super tender, so it might fall apart!). Use two forks to shred the turkey right in the pot or on a cutting board. Serve it up on a platter with those delicious veggies alongside, and don’t forget to spoon some yummy broth over the top. Your Thanksgiving feast is ready to impress!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional benefits of this delightful crockpot turkey! Keep in mind that nutrition can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these numbers are approximate. Enjoy this hearty dish without the guilt, knowing it’s packed with protein and flavor!
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen turkey breast?
Yes, you can use frozen turkey breast in your crockpot! Just keep in mind that it will take longer to cook. I recommend adding an extra hour or two to the cooking time on low. Also, be sure to check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F to be safe. Just remember, the texture might be a little different compared to using fresh turkey, but it’ll still be delicious!
What sides pair well with this recipe?
This crockpot turkey is so versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! You can’t go wrong with classic mashed potatoes and gravy, which soak up all those tasty juices. Green bean casserole adds a nice crunch, and some cranberry sauce on the side will complement the flavors beautifully. For something lighter, a fresh salad or roasted Brussels sprouts work like a charm too!
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything the night before. Just assemble the turkey, veggies, and seasonings in the crockpot and refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, pop it straight into the slow cooker and let it do its magic while you go about your day. If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: Just toss everything in the crockpot and let it do the work for you—perfect for busy holiday schedules!
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of tender turkey, savory vegetables, and sweet cranberry sauce creates a mouthwatering dish that everyone will love.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein and lower in calories, this turkey dish is a guilt-free addition to your Thanksgiving table.
- Family-Friendly: It’s a crowd-pleaser that even the pickiest eaters will enjoy, making it ideal for family gatherings.
- Leftover Magic: The flavors deepen after a day in the fridge, making leftovers just as tasty as the first serving!
Tips for Success
To ensure your crockpot turkey comes out perfectly every time, here are a few pro tips you won’t want to miss! First, always make sure your turkey breast is fully thawed before cooking; this helps it cook evenly and stay juicy. If you’re using frozen turkey, adjust your cooking time accordingly, and be patient—it’ll be worth it!
Next, don’t skip the seasoning! A good sprinkle of salt, pepper, and herbs makes a world of difference in flavor. Also, try to avoid lifting the lid during cooking; it lets out heat and can extend the cooking time. Lastly, for extra moisture, you can baste the turkey with the cooking juices halfway through. Trust me, these little tweaks can take your dish from good to absolutely mouthwatering!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Leftovers from your delicious crockpot turkey are a treasure, and storing them properly is key! Once the turkey has cooled, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to include some of those flavorful vegetables and broth to keep everything moist!
When you’re ready to enjoy those tasty leftovers, gently reheat the turkey in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. If it’s a bit dry, add a splash of chicken broth to bring back that juicy goodness. Just like that, you can savor your Thanksgiving feast all over again!
Print
Crockpot Recipes Thanksgiving: 5 Steps to Stress-Free Joy
- Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple and delicious Thanksgiving meal prepared in a crockpot.
Ingredients
- 4 lbs turkey breast
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 tsp rosemary
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
Instructions
- Place turkey breast in the crockpot.
- Add chicken broth, onion, carrots, celery, and garlic.
- Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary.
- Spread cranberry sauce on top.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Shred the turkey with two forks before serving.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve with your favorite side dishes.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: crockpot recipes thanksgiving
