If you’re looking for a comforting, foolproof meal that feels like it cooked all day but without all the fuss, this Crock Pot Turkey and Gravy Recipe is your new best friend. Picture tender, juicy turkey breast infused with warm, savory herbs slowly mingling together, and a luscious, homemade gravy that elevates every bite. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend, this recipe proves that great taste and ease can go hand in hand in one magical slow cooker.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All of the ingredients for this Crock Pot Turkey and Gravy Recipe are simple yet essential. Each one plays a vital role in layering flavors, adding just the right amount of moisture, and creating that perfect golden color that makes this dish so inviting.
- 3 pounds boneless skinless turkey breast: The star of the dish, providing lean, tender protein that soaks up all the lovely flavors.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural taste of the turkey and balances all seasonings.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds gentle heat and depth without overpowering the other seasonings.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a subtle earthiness and warmth.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Gives a mild sweetness that complements the turkey beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: This herb lends a classic, slightly floral note that’s a match made in heaven with poultry.
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley: Adds fresh, grassy undertones and a splash of color.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Contributes a gentle smoky flavor and rich color to the dish.
- 1 cup low sodium chicken broth: Keeps the turkey moist and creates the flavorful base for your gravy.
- 1 packet 1 ounce turkey gravy mix: Convenient and seasoned to pair perfectly with the slow-cooked juices.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds silkiness and richness to the gravy.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch: Essential for thickening the gravy to the perfect consistency.
- 2 tablespoons cold water: Used to create a smooth slurry for thickening the gravy without lumps.
How to Make Crock Pot Turkey and Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Season the Turkey
Start by patting your turkey breast dry with paper towels – this helps the seasonings stick better and the turkey to brown slightly while cooking. Mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, parsley, and paprika together and rub it all over the turkey. This seasoning blend creates that warm, inviting aroma that will fill your kitchen and promises a deliciously flavored bird.
Step 2: Prepare the Crock Pot
Place the seasoned turkey breast into your crock pot, laying it flat so it cooks evenly. In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and turkey gravy mix until smooth, then pour over the turkey. This liquid bath keeps the turkey moist and infuses it with rich, savory flavors as it cooks slowly.
Step 3: Add Butter and Cook
Dot the turkey with unsalted butter. This extra touch melts during cooking, enhancing both moisture and flavor. Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, or if you’re short on time, cook on high for 3 to 4 hours. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit and delightfully tender turkey that practically melts in your mouth.
Step 4: Rest and Slice
Once cooked, carefully remove the turkey from the crock pot and let it rest on a cutting board for about 10 minutes. Resting lets the juices redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every slice stays juicy and flavorful when served.
Step 5: Make the Gravy
While the turkey rests, strain the cooking liquid from the crock pot into a saucepan, removing any bits or fat if you prefer. Bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch and cold water to make a smooth slurry, then whisk into the simmering liquid. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly until the gravy thickens to a perfect saucy consistency that will coat your turkey slices like a dream.
How to Serve Crock Pot Turkey and Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or thyme right over the top adds a burst of color and fresh herbal brightness that contrasts wonderfully with the rich gravy. For a little texture, crispy fried shallots or toasted almonds bring a delightful crunch.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with classic comfort sides like creamy mashed potatoes that soak up the gravy, roasted root vegetables for a hint of caramelized sweetness, or even a simple green vegetable like steamed green beans or sautéed spinach that adds a splash of vibrant color and freshness on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your turkey slices on a warm platter surrounded by colorful sides, or make individual plates with turkey piled high and gravy drizzled over, topped with a dollop of cranberry sauce for a festive touch. For casual dinners, sandwich the leftovers between soft rolls with some gravy on the side for dipping.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover turkey and gravy in airtight containers and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. The turkey will stay tender and flavorful for up to 4 days, making it perfect for quick weekday meals or snacks.
Freezing
If you have more than you can eat within a few days, freeze the turkey slices and gravy separately in freezer-safe containers or bags. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months and thaw beautifully for a stress-free meal later on.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm your turkey in the microwave or covered in a low oven to avoid drying it out. Warm the gravy separately on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick, then pour over the reheated turkey just before serving for that fresh-from-the-crock-pot taste.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in turkey breast instead of boneless?
Absolutely! Bone-in turkey breast will add some extra flavor and moisture, but it may require a longer cooking time in the crock pot. Just ensure the turkey reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit internally before serving.
Is it necessary to use the turkey gravy mix?
While the gravy mix adds convenience and enhances flavor, you can substitute with homemade gravy or another turkey-flavored gravy mix if you prefer a scratch-made approach.
Can this recipe be doubled or halved?
Yes, the recipe scales quite well. If doubling, make sure your crock pot is large enough to allow even cooking, and adjust cooking times slightly. Halving reduces cooking time, so keep an eye on the internal temperature of the turkey.
What if I don’t have chicken broth?
You can substitute low sodium vegetable broth or even water in a pinch, but chicken broth adds a richer and more savory base that complements turkey perfectly.
Can I add vegetables to the crock pot?
Definitely! Adding sliced onions, minced garlic, or even diced carrots and celery can boost the flavor complexity and make it a one-pot meal. Just be mindful of their cooking times so they don’t turn mushy.
Final Thoughts
This Crock Pot Turkey and Gravy Recipe is such a rewarding dish that brings warmth and ease to the dinner table, perfect for both special occasions and everyday meals. Once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without that rich homemade gravy and juicy turkey cooked gently all day. So go ahead, give this a whirl and enjoy a cozy, satisfying feast that your whole family will cherish.
Print
Crock Pot Turkey and Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Crock Pot Turkey and Gravy recipe is a simple, comforting main course perfect for holidays or any special dinner. Tender boneless turkey breast is slow-cooked with classic seasonings and served with a rich homemade gravy made from the cooking juices, delivering a flavorful and satisfying meal with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Turkey and Seasoning
- 3 pounds boneless skinless turkey breast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Cooking Liquids and Gravy
- 1 cup low sodium chicken broth
- 1 packet (1 ounce) turkey gravy mix
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
Instructions
- Season the Turkey: Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels to remove any moisture. Generously season all sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried parsley, and paprika to infuse flavor.
- Prepare the Crock Pot: Place the seasoned turkey breast into the crock pot. In a small bowl, whisk together the low sodium chicken broth and the turkey gravy mix packet until fully combined.
- Add Liquids and Butter: Pour the broth and gravy mixture over the turkey breast in the crock pot. Dot the top of the turkey with unsalted butter pieces to enhance richness during cooking.
- Cook the Turkey: Cover the crock pot with the lid and cook on low heat for 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The turkey is done when it is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Rest the Turkey: Remove the turkey breast from the crock pot and place it on a cutting board. Let it rest for 10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring moist slices.
- Make the Gravy: Strain the cooking liquid from the crock pot into a saucepan set over medium heat and bring to a simmer. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with cold water to form a slurry and whisk it into the simmering liquid. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the gravy thickens to desired consistency.
- Serve: Slice the rested turkey breast and serve warm with the freshly made gravy spooned over the top for a delicious meal.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add sliced onions or minced garlic to the crock pot before cooking.
- Leftover turkey can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
