If you’re on the hunt for a tender, flavorful, and downright comforting main dish, you’ve got to try this Crockpot Turkey Breast with Herb Gravy Recipe. It’s like giving your classic roast a cozy, slow-cooked hug, where every bite melts in your mouth and that rich herb gravy ties it all together perfectly. Whether it’s a special family dinner or a cozy weeknight treat, this recipe brings simple ingredients together in the most satisfying way, making you wonder why turkey breast ever had a boring reputation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses a handful of straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building layers of flavor and providing just the right texture. Nothing fancy or hard to find, but the magic truly comes from how they all work together in the crockpot.
- 3-3.5 lb boneless turkey breast: The star of the show, tender and juicy when slow-cooked properly.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness and helps all the spices cling to the turkey.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a gentle, savory aroma that complements turkey beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant herbal blend that brightens up the flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon seasoning salt (such as Lawry’s): Brings out natural flavors with a touch of extra seasoning.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: A subtle kick that enhances overall taste without overpowering.
- 1 cup low sodium chicken, turkey, or vegetable broth: The base for making that luscious herb gravy.
- 2 tablespoons corn starch: Thickens the gravy into a silky, clingy sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley: Adds freshness and a pinch of color to the gravy.
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme: Earthy and fragrant, perfect for comforting herb notes.
- 1 pinch black pepper: Just a bit more to taste in the gravy for balance.
How to Make Crockpot Turkey Breast with Herb Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Season the Turkey
Start by placing your boneless turkey breast in the crockpot. Then, mix softened butter with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, seasoning salt, and black pepper. Rub this herbaceous, buttery blend generously all over the turkey. This seasoning mixture is your ticket to tender, flavorful meat that stays moist throughout the slow cooking.
Step 2: Cook the Turkey
Cover the crockpot and set it to low temperature. Allow the turkey to cook for about 5 hours. Patience is key here because slow cooking lets the turkey breast reach that perfect internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring it’s safe to eat but still juicy and tender.
Step 3: Make the Herb Gravy
Once the turkey is done, carefully strain the cooking juices from the crockpot into a small pot. In a separate bowl, whisk together the broth and corn starch until smooth. Pour this mixture into the strained turkey juices and cook over medium heat, whisking constantly until the gravy thickens. Add dried parsley, thyme, and a pinch of black pepper to infuse the herb flavors into the gravy, making it the best companion for your turkey.
Step 4: Rest and Slice
Before serving, let the turkey rest for a few minutes so the juices redistribute. This step locks in moisture, resulting in slices that are juicy and tender rather than dry. Then slice and serve generously topped with that glorious herb gravy.
How to Serve Crockpot Turkey Breast with Herb Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley, thyme sprigs, or even a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper can elevate the presentation. Not only do these garnishes add a pop of color, but they also echo the lovely herb aromas in the gravy, making every bite even more delightful.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes that soak up the herb gravy perfectly. Roasted seasonal vegetables such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans add color and crunch, while a simple dinner roll or crusty bread rounds out the meal for scooping up every last bit of that delicious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion twist, carve the turkey breast into thin medallions and arrange them on a platter with the herb gravy poured artistically over the top. Garnish with fresh herbs and add some roasted garlic cloves or lemon wedges for brightness. This makes for a stunning centerpiece that’s sure to impress guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover turkey breast in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for up to four days, letting you enjoy this comforting dish again without any hassle.
Freezing
If you want to save turkey and gravy for later, freeze them separately in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip bags. Properly stored, they’ll last up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.
Reheating
To reheat the turkey, slice it and warm gently in the oven or microwave until heated through, then spoon the herb gravy over top. Reheat the gravy on the stove over low heat, whisking occasionally to maintain its silky consistency.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in turkey breast for this recipe?
Absolutely! Bone-in turkey breast will take a bit longer to cook, so add an extra hour or so and check for an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s done.
What if I don’t have corn starch for the gravy?
You can substitute with all-purpose flour or arrowroot powder, but use slightly less and whisk well to avoid lumps. The gravy might be a little different in texture but still delicious.
Is it possible to double this Crockpot Turkey Breast with Herb Gravy Recipe?
Yes, provided your crockpot is large enough to hold the turkey breasts comfortably. Cooking time may increase slightly, so monitor the internal temperature closely to avoid under or overcooking.
Can I add vegetables to the crockpot to cook with the turkey?
Definitely! Root vegetables like carrots and potatoes can cook alongside the turkey, adding flavor and making the meal even easier, just keep in mind they’ll soak up some juices.
How do I know when the turkey breast is fully cooked in the crockpot?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F in the thickest part of the breast before removing it from the crockpot.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the ease and comforting flavors of this Crockpot Turkey Breast with Herb Gravy Recipe. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy moist, flavorful turkey without the stress, and the herb gravy adds a perfect finishing touch that you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again. Give it a try and watch how it turns any meal into a heartwarming feast!
Print
Crockpot Turkey Breast with Herb Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 hours
- Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Crockpot Turkey Breast recipe offers a simple, hands-off way to prepare a succulent and flavorful turkey breast with a homemade gravy. Seasoned with garlic, Italian herbs, and seasoning salt, the turkey breast cooks slowly to retain moisture and tenderness, making it perfect for family dinners or holiday meals.
Ingredients
Turkey
- 3–3.5 lb boneless turkey breast
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon seasoning salt (such as Lawry’s)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Gravy
- 1 cup low sodium chicken, turkey, or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons corn starch
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 pinch black pepper
Instructions
- Season the Turkey: Place the boneless turkey breast in the crockpot. In a small bowl, mix together the softened unsalted butter, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, seasoning salt, and black pepper. Rub this seasoned butter mixture thoroughly over the entire surface of the turkey breast to ensure even flavor.
- Cook the Turkey: Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook on the low setting for 5 hours, or until the internal temperature of the turkey breast reaches 165°F, indicating that it is safely cooked through and tender.
- Make the Gravy: Carefully strain the cooking juices from the crockpot into a saucepan. In a separate bowl, whisk together the low sodium broth and corn starch until smooth, then gradually whisk this mixture into the turkey juices over medium heat. Add dried parsley, dried thyme, and a pinch of black pepper. Cook while stirring until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency. Adjust seasonings to taste.
- Serve: Allow the turkey breast to rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve the sliced turkey with the freshly made gravy poured over the top for a delicious and comforting meal.
Notes
- Make sure to use a meat thermometer to check that the turkey breast reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
- For extra flavor, you can add fresh herbs under the skin before rubbing with butter.
- Leftover turkey and gravy can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
- If desired, thicken the gravy with additional corn starch slurry (1 tablespoon corn starch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water) for a thicker consistency.
- To reduce sodium, opt for low sodium or homemade broth in the gravy.
