Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast

Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast is a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from Thanksgiving feasts to cozy family dinners. This recipe showcases how simple ingredients can come together to create a moist and flavorful turkey breast that everyone will love. With just a few minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it while your slow cooker does all the work. Plus, the combination of cranberry sauce and orange juice adds a unique twist that elevates this dish above traditional turkey recipes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Just four ingredients make this recipe incredibly easy to prepare. Simply season the turkey, add the sauce, and let the crock pot do the rest.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of cranberry sauce, onion seasoning, and orange juice creates a deliciously tangy and savory flavor profile.
• Versatile Dish: Great for holiday gatherings or casual weeknight dinners, this turkey breast fits any occasion perfectly.
• Moist & Tender: Cooking in a crock pot ensures that the turkey remains juicy and tender throughout the cooking process.
• Leftover Friendly: Enjoy tasty leftovers that can be used in sandwiches, salads, or even soups.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker (crock pot)
• Mixing bowl
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Serving plate

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is essential for evenly cooking the turkey while retaining moisture over several hours.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for combining sauces and spices easily without making a mess.
• Medium saucepan: Needed for thickening the gravy after cooking.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth gravy texture by mixing cornstarch into the sauce.

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Ingredients

Crock Pot Turkey Breast only needs 4 ingredients and you won’t believe how easy it is to make! Tender flaky, moist, fool-proof boneless turkey breast recipe that’s perfect for Thanksgiving.

Main Ingredients

• 1 (5-7 lbs) boneless turkey breast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1 can (14 oz) whole berry cranberry sauce
• 1 packet onion soup seasoning mix
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon cold water

How to Make Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast

Step 1: Prepare the Turkey

Unwrap the boneless turkey breast, keeping the netting on. Place it into your slow cooker.

Step 2: Season

Sprinkle salt and pepper over the turkey. Rub it in gently to ensure even seasoning.

Step 3: Mix Sauces

In a mixing bowl, combine cranberry sauce, onion seasoning mix, and orange juice. Pour this mixture over the turkey in the slow cooker.

Step 4: Cook

Set your slow cooker to LOW heat and cook for 5-7 hours. Ensure that the internal temperature reaches at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 5: Rest & Skim Fat

Once cooked, remove the turkey breast from the crock pot and place it on a serving plate. Cover with tin foil to keep warm. Skim off excess fat from the liquid remaining in the crock pot.

Step 6: Prepare Gravy

Pour the liquid from the crock pot into a medium saucepan. In a small bowl, mix together cornstarch and cold water until smooth. Bring the sauce in the saucepan to a boil; then whisk in the cornstarch mixture until thickened (about 1-2 minutes).

Step 7: Serve

Slice or shred your turkey breast as desired. Pour some gravy over it before serving. Store extra gravy in a jar for guests to serve themselves. Enjoy your delicious Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast!

How to Serve Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast

Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast is not only easy to prepare but also versatile in how you can serve it. From elegant holiday dinners to casual weeknight meals, this dish pairs well with various sides and sauces. Here are some great serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

With Gravy

• Pour the thickened gravy over the sliced turkey breast for extra flavor and moisture.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve the turkey slices on a bed of mixed greens, drizzled with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.

As Sandwiches

• Use leftover turkey in sandwiches with cranberry sauce and spinach for a delicious twist on classic flavors.

With Fresh Fruit

• Pair the turkey with fresh fruit like orange slices or apple wedges to balance the savory flavors.

How to Perfect Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast

Achieving the perfect Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast can elevate your dining experience. Here are some tips to ensure your turkey turns out tender and flavorful.

• Choose the right size: Select a boneless turkey breast that fits snugly in your crock pot for even cooking.

• Season generously: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper; they enhance the natural flavors of the turkey.

• Use quality ingredients: Opt for high-quality cranberry sauce and broth for richer flavor.

• Monitor cooking time: Cooking times may vary, so check the internal temperature regularly to avoid overcooking.

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast

Pairing side dishes with your Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast can create a well-rounded meal. Here’s a list of delightful sides that complement this dish beautifully.

1. Roasted Vegetables
   A mix of seasonal vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized adds color and sweetness.

2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes made with garlic create a comforting base that pairs perfectly with turkey and gravy.

3. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad tossed with herbs, cranberries, and nuts provides texture and a nutritious element to your plate.

4. Green Bean Almondine
   Fresh green beans sautéed with almonds bring crunch and vibrancy, balancing the richness of the turkey.

5. Stuffing
   A savory stuffing made with herbs, bread cubes, and vegetables creates an excellent traditional pairing with turkey.

6. Sweet Potato Casserole
   A sweet potato casserole topped with pecans or marshmallows offers a delightful sweetness that complements savory dishes well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast can be simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin your dish. Here are some tips to help you succeed.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your turkey breast can lead to bland flavor. Always rub salt and pepper generously for a delicious result.
• Overcooking the turkey: Cooking beyond the recommended time can dry out your turkey. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F for perfect doneness.
• Ignoring the sauce: Neglecting the sauce can make your turkey seem dry. Pour some over before serving for added moisture and flavor.
• Using too much liquid: Adding excessive liquid can make the dish soupy instead of saucy. Stick to the ingredient measurements for the best outcome.
• Not letting it rest: Cutting into your turkey immediately after cooking can cause it to lose juices. Allow it to rest covered for at least 10 minutes before slicing.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover turkey in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast

• Place cooled turkey in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, cover turkey with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place slices in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat slices in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep them moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to cook Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast?

Cooking time typically ranges from 5-7 hours on low heat. Always check that the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F.

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of canned sauce?

Yes, you can use fresh cranberries! Combine them with sugar and water on the stovetop until they burst for a homemade cranberry sauce.

What can I serve with Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast?

Pair your turkey with sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or stuffing for a complete meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

How do I customize this recipe?

Feel free to add herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance flavor. You could also substitute orange juice with apple juice for a slightly different taste.

Final Thoughts

The Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast is an easy yet impressive dish that is perfect for gatherings or family dinners. Its tender and juicy texture combined with sweet cranberry sauce makes it irresistible. Plus, it’s highly customizable! Experiment with different juices or spices to find your favorite flavor profile. Try this recipe today and delight your guests at your next meal!