Slow Cooker Turkey Recipes

Thanksgiving is a cherished holiday full of warmth, gratitude, and most importantly, delicious food. But with so much to prepare, the stress of managing oven space and cooking large cuts of turkey can sometimes overshadow the joy of the day. Enter the slow cooker—a kitchen hero that transforms turkey preparation into an effortless process, giving you juicy, tender results with minimal hands-on time.

In this article, you’ll discover a variety of slow cooker turkey recipes perfect for your Thanksgiving or any cozy holiday gathering. From succulent turkey breast to shredded turkey perfect for sandwiches or tacos, plus a rich herb-infused gravy that will elevate your meal, these recipes help you “set it and forget it” while your home fills with irresistible aromas.

Why Use a Slow Cooker for Turkey?

Slow cookers offer several advantages for cooking turkey, especially during the busy holiday season:

• Hands-off cooking: Minimal prep and no need to constantly monitor the oven.

• Juicy, tender meat: Slow cooking at low temperatures locks in moisture and breaks down connective tissue.

• Saves oven space: Perfect when your oven is packed with side dishes and pies.

• Consistent results: Less chance of drying out the turkey breast.

• Versatility: You can cook whole turkey breasts, make shredded turkey for other dishes, and create flavorful gravies in one pot.

Essential Tips for Slow Cooker Turkey Success

• Choose the right cut: Turkey breast or smaller cuts work best. Whole turkeys rarely fit in a slow cooker.

• Don’t overcook: Slow cookers vary; monitor internal temperature to avoid drying. The USDA recommends 165°F (74°C) for turkey.

• Add aromatics: Onion, garlic, herbs, and broth help infuse flavor during slow cooking.

• Layer wisely: Place vegetables or aromatics at the bottom to avoid direct heat on the turkey.

• Rest after cooking: Let turkey rest before slicing to retain juices.

Slow Cooker Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast

A classic and flavorful turkey breast, slow-cooked with herbs and garlic to juicy perfection.

Ingredients

• 3 to 4 lb boneless, skin-on turkey breast

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, chopped

• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 onion, sliced

• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

• 2 carrots, cut into chunks

• 2 celery stalks, cut into chunks

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, mix butter, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Rub this herb butter mixture all over the turkey breast, under and over the skin.

2. Place onion, carrots, and celery at the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour the chicken broth over the veggies.

3. Set the turkey breast on top of the vegetables, skin side up.

4. Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

5. Once done, remove turkey and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with the slow cooker juices or make gravy (see gravy recipe below).

Pro tip: For crispy skin, briefly place the cooked turkey under a hot broiler for 2-3 minutes before slicing.

Slow Cooker Shredded Turkey for Sandwiches & More

Perfect for using leftovers or making pulled turkey sandwiches, tacos, or salads.

Ingredients

• 2 to 3 lb boneless turkey breast or thighs

• 1 onion, sliced

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• ½ teaspoon chili powder

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

• Juice of 1 lime

• Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for serving)

Instructions

1. Place sliced onions and garlic in the bottom of the slow cooker.

2. Rub turkey with smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Place on top of the onions.

3. Pour chicken broth over the turkey. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until turkey is tender and shreds easily with a fork.

4. Remove turkey and shred with two forks. Return shredded turkey to slow cooker and stir in lime juice.

5. Serve in sandwiches, tacos, or over salads, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Creamy Slow Cooker Turkey Gravy

Make use of the flavorful cooking juices for a rich, herb-infused gravy.

Ingredients

• 2 cups turkey drippings and juices from the slow cooker

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth or water

• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Pour drippings into a saucepan, skim off excess fat if needed.

2. Melt butter in the pan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden (roux).

3. Gradually whisk in turkey drippings and chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.

4. Add fresh thyme, season with salt and pepper. Simmer gently for 5-7 minutes until thickened.

5. Adjust seasoning and serve warm with turkey slices.

Slow Cooker Turkey Breast with Apples and Sage

A sweet and savory twist using seasonal apples and fragrant sage.

Ingredients

• 3 to 4 lb boneless turkey breast

• 2 apples, cored and sliced

• 1 onion, sliced

• 3 tablespoons butter, softened

• 2 teaspoons chopped fresh sage

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon pepper

• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

Instructions

1. Combine butter, sage, garlic, salt, and pepper. Rub mixture under and over the turkey skin.

2. Place sliced apples and onions in the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour chicken broth over them.

3. Set turkey breast on top of apple and onion layers.

4. Cook on low for 5-6 hours, until turkey reaches 165°F internally.

5. Let rest 10 minutes before slicing and serve with apples and onions from the slow cooker.

Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Turkey

Can I cook a whole turkey in a slow cooker?
Most slow cookers are too small for a whole turkey. It’s best to cook turkey breasts or smaller cuts for even cooking and best results.

How do I ensure the turkey is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part.

Can I use frozen turkey breast in the slow cooker?
It’s recommended to thaw the turkey fully before slow cooking to ensure even cooking and food safety.

Is it safe to leave the slow cooker on overnight?
Yes, if your slow cooker has a reliable timer and temperature control, but it’s best to follow manufacturer guidelines.

How do I keep turkey breast moist in the slow cooker?
Using a layer of vegetables underneath, adding broth, and rubbing butter under the skin help retain moisture.

Tips to Elevate Your Slow Cooker Turkey Meal

• Pair with classic sides: Mashed potatoes, green beans, roasted Brussels sprouts, and cranberry sauce complement slow cooker turkey perfectly.

• Make it a one-pot meal: Add root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, or potatoes around the turkey for an all-in-one meal.

• Use leftovers creatively: Slow cooker shredded turkey is excellent in wraps, salads, or turkey chili.

• Add fresh herbs before serving: Sprinkle parsley, thyme, or rosemary for a fresh finish.

Featured Image Prompt

A rustic slow cooker filled with a golden, herb-rubbed turkey breast resting atop a bed of vibrant carrots, celery, and onions. The slow cooker is surrounded by fresh sprigs of rosemary and thyme, with a small bowl of rich turkey gravy and a carving knife and fork ready to serve. Warm lighting highlights the juicy texture and crispy skin of the turkey, evoking a cozy Thanksgiving atmosphere.

Alt Text for Image:
Slow cooker turkey breast with herbs and vegetables, accompanied by a bowl of rich turkey gravy, ready for a festive Thanksgiving meal.

Conclusion

Slow cooker turkey recipes are an excellent way to enjoy a juicy, flavorful holiday main dish without the stress and fuss of traditional roasting. Whether you prefer a classic herb-roasted turkey breast, shredded turkey for versatile meals, or a sweet-savory apple and sage variation, the slow cooker simplifies Thanksgiving prep while delivering delicious results.

Saving oven space, reducing hands-on time, and locking in moisture makes slow cooker turkey a smart choice for busy hosts who want to focus on what matters most—celebrating with family and friends.

Give these recipes a try this holiday season for a stress-free, tasty feast that everyone will love!