Tender Slow Cooker Crockpot Turkey Recipe

Try This Tender Slow Cooker Crockpot Turkey Recipe Today!

Warm, succulent turkey emerges as the star of this slow cooker crockpot turkey recipe that promises pure comfort on a plate.

Juicy meat falls apart with the gentlest touch, creating a meal that feels like a culinary embrace.

Herbs and spices infuse each tender bite with incredible depth and richness.

The crockpot works its magic, transforming an ordinary turkey into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Minimal effort yields maximum flavor in this delightful dish.

Delicate and perfectly seasoned, this turkey recipe stands ready to become your new go-to main course for any gathering.

Prepare to savor every single, delectable morsel.

Steps To Make Crockpot Turkey

  • Cleanse the Bird

Remove inner parts and pat turkey dry with clean towels to prep for cooking.

  • Create Flavor Magic

Blend herbs and spices, then massage oil across entire turkey surface, working seasoning under skin for deep taste.

  • Prepare Slow Cooker Base

Scatter chopped vegetables like onions, celery, and carrots across bottom of crockpot, then pour broth for moisture and additional flavor.

  • Position Turkey Carefully

Gently place turkey breast-side up inside slow cooker, adjusting position to ensure proper fit without damaging meat.

  • Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover and cook on low temperature for 6-8 hours until internal temperature reaches safe cooking point, ensuring juicy and tender results.

  • Optional Skin Transformation

Transfer cooked turkey to baking sheet and broil briefly to create crispy, golden exterior that adds delightful crunch.

  • Finish and Serve

Allow turkey to rest peacefully for short period before slicing, which helps redistribute delicious juices throughout meat.

Flavor Tips For Crockpot Turkey

  • Herb Infusion Hack: Crush dried herbs between your fingers before adding to the seasoning mix to release more intense flavors and enhance the turkey's overall taste profile.
  • Skin Crisping Technique: If you want perfectly golden skin, pat the turkey extremely dry before seasoning and consider brushing with melted butter before broiling to achieve maximum crispiness.
  • Gluten-Free Adaptation: Ensure chicken broth is gluten-free and replace traditional seasonings with certified gluten-free spice blends to make this recipe safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Low-Sodium Version: Replace salt with herb-based seasoning blends or use salt-free herb mixtures to create a heart-healthy option without compromising flavor intensity.
  • Leftover Magic: Transform extra turkey into delicious sandwiches, salads, or shredded meat for tacos by storing in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freezing for longer preservation.

Serving Suggestions For Crockpot Turkey

  • Festive Family Feast: Serve this juicy slow cooker turkey as the centerpiece for a memorable holiday meal with loved ones.
  • Versatile Leftover Magic: Transform extra turkey into sandwiches, salads, pot pies, or hearty turkey soup for delicious next-day meals.
  • Elegant Platter Presentation: Arrange carved turkey slices on a large platter surrounded by roasted vegetables, fresh herbs, and cranberry sauce for a stunning table display.
  • Comfort Food Pairing: Complement the turkey with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, stuffing, and warm dinner rolls for a traditional comfort food experience.

How To Store Crockpot Turkey

  • Smart Refrigeration Strategy: Store leftover turkey in airtight containers within two hours of cooking, keeping meat pieces separate from stuffing. Refrigerate at 40°F or below to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
  • Freezing Wisdom: Wrap turkey slices tightly in freezer-safe plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place in sealed freezer bags. Well-packaged turkey stays delicious for up to 4 months when stored at 0°F, perfect for future quick meals.
  • Portion Control Technique: Slice or shred turkey into smaller serving sizes before storing. This method allows easier reheating, reduces waste, and helps create quick lunch sandwiches, salads, or casseroles throughout the week.
  • Reheating Magic: Warm refrigerated turkey gently in microwave with a splash of chicken broth to prevent dryness. Alternatively, use oven method at 325°F, covering meat with foil to retain moisture and restore succulent texture within 15-20 minutes.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 7 hours

Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes

Calories: 300 kcal

Servings: 9

Turkey Crockpot Ingredients List

For Aromatic Base:
  • Onion: Provides a sweet, earthy foundation that adds depth to the dish's flavor profile.
  • Celery: Brings a subtle, fresh crunch and herbal undertone to the turkey's overall taste.
  • Carrots: Contributes natural sweetness and vibrant color to the slow cooker base.
  • Garlic: Delivers a robust, pungent kick that elevates the entire recipe's flavor complexity.
For Seasoning Blend:
  • Salt: Enhances and balances the turkey's natural taste.
  • Black Pepper: Adds a warm, slightly spicy note to the seasoning mix.
  • Garlic Powder: Provides concentrated garlic flavor with consistent distribution.
  • Onion Powder: Creates a rounded, savory background flavor.
  • Paprika: Introduces a mild, sweet pepper warmth and beautiful reddish color.
  • Thyme: Offers an earthy, slightly minty herb essence.
  • Rosemary: Brings a piney, aromatic freshness to the seasoning.
  • Sage: Contributes a classic, robust poultry herb profile.
For Moisture and Cooking Base:
  • Chicken Broth: Creates a flavorful liquid environment for tender, juicy turkey.
  • Olive Oil or Butter: Helps seasoning adhere and ensures crispy, golden skin.
  • Turkey: The star ingredient, promising a succulent and perfectly cooked centerpiece.

Tools You Need For Slow Cooker Crockpot Turkey

  • Slow cooker or crockpot: Essential for cooking the entire turkey with minimal effort.
  • Meat thermometer: Critical for checking internal turkey temperature to ensure safe cooking.
  • Small mixing bowl: Perfect for combining all dry seasonings.
  • Paper towels: Helpful for patting the turkey dry before seasoning.
  • Cutting board: Needed for preparing and handling the turkey.
  • Sharp knife: Useful for trimming turkey if needed and carving after cooking.
  • Baking sheet: Optional for crisping turkey skin under the broiler.
  • Tongs or carving fork: Helpful for transferring and handling the cooked turkey.
Print
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Tender Slow Cooker Crockpot Turkey Recipe

Tender Slow Cooker Crockpot Turkey Recipe


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4.5 from 24 reviews

  • Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 9 1x

Description

Hearty Slow Cooker Turkey Feast brings families together with rich, tender meat infused with classic herbs and spices. Comfort meets convenience in this simple, foolproof method you can master for memorable family dinners.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (10 to 12 lb / 4.5 to 5.4 kg) whole turkey, thawed if frozen
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) olive oil or melted butter
  • 1 tbsp salt
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp onion powder
  • 1 onion, quartered
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, smashed
  • 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried rosemary
  • 1 tsp dried sage

Instructions

  1. Preparation: Meticulously extract neck and internal organs from turkey. Pat entire surface dry with paper towels to optimize seasoning absorption.
  2. Seasoning Technique: Blend salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, rosemary, and sage into a vibrant herb mixture. Massage olive oil or butter thoroughly across and under turkey skin, ensuring comprehensive coverage.
  3. Slow Cooker Foundation: Layer chopped onions, celery, carrots, and minced garlic as an aromatic base. Pour chicken broth to create a moisture-rich cooking environment.
  4. Positioning: Nestle turkey breast-side up in slow cooker, potentially trimming edges to achieve a perfect fit.
  5. Roasting Process: Cover and cook on low temperature for 6-8 hours. Verify doneness by confirming internal thigh temperature reaches 165°F using a precise meat thermometer.
  6. Finishing Touch: Transfer cooked turkey to baking sheet. Briefly broil to develop a golden, crispy exterior, maintaining vigilant monitoring to prevent burning.
  7. Serving Preparation: Rest turkey for 15-20 minutes, allowing internal juices to redistribute. Carve strategically to preserve moisture and create an elegant presentation.

Notes

  • Prep Like a Pro: Remove giblets and pat turkey completely dry to help seasonings stick perfectly and promote crispy skin.
  • Seasoning Secret: Create a generous spice rub under and over the skin for maximum flavor penetration, ensuring every bite is packed with aromatic herbs.
  • Prevent Dryness: Cook on low temperature and use chicken broth to maintain moisture, checking internal temperature precisely to avoid overcooking.
  • Crisp Finish Technique: Optional broiling step transforms slow-cooked turkey from soft to golden-brown, adding delightful textural contrast without sacrificing tenderness.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 7 hours
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 9
  • Calories: 300
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 5 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 100 mg
John Nicholson

John Nicholson

Lead Writer & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Recipe Testing and Development, Kitchen Hacks and Time-Saving Tips, Flavor Pairing and Ingredient Selection, Engaging Food Writing and Storytelling

Education

Johnson & Wales University

  • Program: Bachelor of Science in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: A hands-on curriculum emphasizing farm-to-table cooking, local ingredient sourcing, and creative menu development. Students gained real-world restaurant experience, learning both classic techniques and modern approaches to sustainable cooking.

John Nicholson honed his skills at Johnson & Wales University, learning how to use fresh, local ingredients and down-to-earth techniques to make cooking simple and satisfying.

His recipes blend Southern comfort flavors with a modern touch, inviting everyone to cook with ease and confidence.

Living in Charleston, John takes cues from the city’s lively food scene, local markets, and seasonal produce. He’s all about making meals stress-free through easy tips, flavor pairings, and fun experiments in the kitchen

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