There’s something magical about walking into the kitchen and being greeted by the cozy aroma of a slow-cooked meal. This Crockpot Turkey Breast is the perfect balance of simplicity and flavor— tender, juicy, and infused with herbs. It’s the ideal recipe for small holiday gatherings, Sunday suppers, or whenever you want a no-fuss dinner that still feels special.
Recipe Info
| Category | Dinner |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 5–6 hours (on low) |
| Servings | 6 servings |
| Calories¹ | ~280 kcal |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 (4–6 lb) bone-in or boneless turkey breast
- 3 tbsp butter, melted
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika (adds golden color)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 tsp dried sage (optional, for holiday flavor)
- ½ tsp lemon zest (optional, for brightness)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken or turkey broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ onion, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 carrot, chopped
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Turkey
Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. If it has skin, gently loosen it to make room for seasoning underneath. - Make the Herb Butter
Mix melted butter, olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and all spices together until fragrant. - Season Generously
Rub the mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get under the skin for extra flavor. - Layer the Crockpot Base
Place onion, celery, carrot, and garlic at the bottom of your slow cooker. Pour in broth and Worcestershire sauce. - Slow-Cook the Turkey
Position the turkey breast on top of the vegetables, skin-side up. Cover and cook on LOW for 5–6 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). - Optional Crisp Finish
For golden, crispy skin, transfer the turkey to a baking sheet and broil for 4–5 minutes. - Rest and Slice
Let the turkey rest 10–15 minutes before slicing so the juices stay locked inside.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Always check doneness with a meat thermometer.
- Resting is key—don’t skip it!
- Use the cooking liquid to make a quick gravy: whisk in a cornstarch slurry and simmer until thickened.
- Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for future meals.
Recipe Variations
- Lighter version: Swap butter for olive oil and use low-sodium broth.
- Veggie-packed: Add extra carrots, potatoes, or parsnips to cook alongside.
- Fresh herbs: Double the thyme, rosemary, or sage if using fresh instead of dried.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with mashed potatoes, stuffing, and roasted veggies for a classic dinner.
- Make leftover sandwiches with cranberry sauce or mustard.
- Shred for tacos, salads, or grain bowls.
Conclusion
This Crockpot Turkey Breast is proof that holiday-worthy meals don’t need to be complicated. Juicy, tender, and full of cozy flavor, it’s a dish that invites everyone to gather around the table and enjoy. Whether for a weeknight treat or a festive feast, this recipe is one you’ll want to make again and again.