The beauty of this Crockpot Turkey Breast with Gravy is in its simplicity and ease. With just a few ingredients and minimal hands-on time, you can create a dish that feels like a special occasion. The slow cooking process ensures the turkey is tender and flavorful, and the addition of homemade gravy takes it to the next level. It’s the perfect meal to enjoy with loved ones, creating memories around the dinner table.
This Crockpot Turkey Breast with Gravy is the epitome of a comforting, home-cooked meal. The turkey is perfectly tender and juicy, slow-cooked to perfection with herbs that infuse the meat with flavor. The homemade gravy adds richness and depth, making every bite a delight. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday meal or a weeknight dinner, this dish will surely become a family favorite.
Full Recipe:
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3-4 lb boneless turkey breast
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 onion, chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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1 teaspoon dried rosemary
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 tablespoon cornstarch (for gravy)
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1/4 cup cold water
Directions:
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the turkey breast with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary. Sear the turkey on all sides until browned, about 5 minutes.
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Transfer the seared turkey breast to the crockpot. Add chopped onion, garlic, and chicken broth. Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours, or until the turkey is tender and fully cooked.
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Once cooked, remove the turkey breast from the crockpot and place it on a cutting board to rest.
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To make the gravy, strain the cooking juices into a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Mix cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry, then whisk it into the simmering liquid until thickened.
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Slice the turkey breast and serve with the homemade gravy.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 5-6 hours | Total Time: 5-6 hours 10 minutes
Kcal: 280 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
History and Origin
Turkey has long been a centerpiece of festive meals, especially in North America, where it’s most famously featured in Thanksgiving celebrations. The tradition of eating turkey for Thanksgiving dates back to the 1600s when early settlers in Plymouth, Massachusetts, enjoyed a feast with native Wampanoag people, which likely included wild turkey. Over the years, turkey became synonymous with American holidays, particularly Thanksgiving, thanks to its size and availability.
The method of slow cooking turkey, particularly in a crockpot or slow cooker, is a more modern twist on the classic roasted turkey. Slow cookers, or crockpots, were invented in the 1970s and quickly became a popular kitchen appliance due to their convenience and ease of use. The ability to cook meat slowly at low temperatures allows the turkey to become tender and absorb the flavors of herbs, broth, and vegetables. Although the tradition of serving turkey dates back centuries, slow-cooked turkey breasts are a recent innovation, perfect for busy families who want to enjoy a turkey dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
Variations and Adaptations
The beauty of slow-cooked turkey breast is its versatility, and there are many variations of the recipe you can try based on regional flavors or personal preferences. For example, in the American South, it’s common to season turkey with a mix of paprika, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder to give it a smoky and spicy kick. In contrast, a more traditional herb-based seasoning like rosemary, thyme, and sage is favored in other parts of the country, particularly for holiday meals.
If you’re looking to add a more creative twist, you can stuff the turkey breast with various ingredients before cooking. A stuffing made of fresh herbs, chopped onions, and even cranberries can be added to give the turkey an extra burst of flavor. Alternatively, for a more savory variation, some recipes include vegetables like carrots, celery, and potatoes, cooked alongside the turkey to create a full meal in one pot.
For those who prefer a lighter version of the recipe, you can opt for a skinless turkey breast to reduce the fat content. Additionally, swapping the homemade gravy for a lower-fat option or making a creamy gravy with a plant-based milk like almond or oat can make the recipe more suitable for various dietary preferences.
Nutritional Information
Crockpot Turkey Breast with Gravy is a relatively healthy meal, especially when compared to traditional roasted turkey, which can be higher in fat when prepared with skin. A typical serving of turkey breast (around 4 ounces) without the skin provides approximately 160 calories, with 2-3 grams of fat, 30 grams of protein, and minimal carbohydrates. It is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle building and repair.
Turkey also provides important micronutrients, such as niacin (vitamin B3), which plays a vital role in energy production and maintaining healthy skin, and selenium, a mineral that acts as an antioxidant. Additionally, turkey is a good source of zinc, which supports a healthy immune system, and phosphorus, which is necessary for healthy bones and teeth.
However, the gravy adds calories and fat, particularly if made with butter or heavy cream. For those looking to reduce the calorie count, opting for a low-fat or vegetable-based gravy can significantly cut down on the overall nutritional value while still maintaining flavor. In general, a serving of the turkey with homemade gravy is around 280 calories, with about 12 grams of fat, 2 grams of carbohydrates, and 30 grams of protein. If you’re using a store-bought broth or gravy, be mindful of sodium content, as pre-made options can be quite high in salt.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Crockpot Turkey Breast with Gravy is a rich, flavorful dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a traditional, comforting meal, consider serving it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green bean almondine. The creamy gravy will complement these dishes perfectly, and the turkey provides a lean, protein-packed option to balance the heavier sides.
For a lighter pairing, you could opt for a fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette or a cauliflower mash instead of traditional potatoes. A refreshing side like a citrusy kale salad or roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze can bring a fresh contrast to the richness of the turkey and gravy.
If you’re looking for a beverage to complement the meal, a glass of white wine, such as a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, pairs wonderfully with turkey. If you prefer non-alcoholic beverages, a cold apple cider or sparkling water with a slice of lemon can provide a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors of the turkey.
For a heartier, more festive meal, you can add a stuffing to the table, either alongside the turkey or even cooked within the bird. A wild rice and cranberry stuffing or a cornbread stuffing can enhance the overall meal and make it feel even more special. Don’t forget to include some warm dinner rolls or a slice of homemade bread to soak up all the delicious gravy.
Tips and Tricks for Success
To ensure that your Crockpot Turkey Breast with Gravy turns out perfectly, there are a few tips to keep in mind:
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Searing the turkey: While it’s not strictly necessary, searing the turkey breast in a hot skillet before adding it to the crockpot can add depth of flavor. The Maillard reaction that occurs during the searing process creates a caramelized crust, which enhances the turkey’s natural savory flavor.
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Don’t overcook the turkey: Turkey breast is very lean, so it can dry out quickly if overcooked. It’s essential to check the internal temperature of the turkey. A thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast should read 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
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Let the turkey rest: After removing the turkey from the crockpot, allow it to rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it moist and tender.
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Gravy consistency: If you find your gravy too thin, simply simmer it on the stovetop for a few more minutes to reduce and thicken. Alternatively, you can mix a small amount of cornstarch with cold water and whisk it into the simmering gravy for a quick thickening solution.
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Enhance flavor: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and seasonings. A pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of garlic powder can give the turkey an entirely new flavor profile.
Potential Health Benefits
Crockpot Turkey Breast with Gravy offers several health benefits, especially when compared to higher-fat meat options. Turkey is a fantastic source of lean protein, which supports muscle repair and growth, and helps keep you full longer. The low-fat content of turkey breast makes it a good choice for those looking to maintain or lose weight.
The herbs used in the recipe, such as rosemary, thyme, and garlic, offer additional health benefits. Rosemary and thyme have antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and support overall health. Garlic is known for its immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a wonderful addition to any dish.
By choosing to make your own gravy, you can control the ingredients and reduce unhealthy fats or excess sodium. If you opt for a vegetable-based gravy, you can further increase the health benefits by incorporating nutrient-rich vegetables like carrots or celery, which are high in vitamins and minerals.
Conclusion
Crockpot Turkey Breast with Gravy is a heartwarming, easy-to-make dish that delivers on flavor and convenience. It’s the perfect meal for both everyday family dinners and special occasions, offering the comfort of a classic turkey dinner with minimal effort. With its juicy turkey breast, rich homemade gravy, and versatile serving suggestions, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re cooking it for a holiday gathering or just because, this dish is a must-try.