Crock Pot Turkey Breast with Cranberry sauce

If you’re looking for a cozy, delicious dish that can bring comfort to any dinner table, then my Crock Pot Turkey Breast with Cranberry Sauce is just the ticket! This recipe has become one of my favorites for its ease and incredible flavor. It’s perfect not only for special occasions like family gatherings but also for those busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to whip it up all year round!

The sweet and savory notes of the cranberry sauce paired with tender turkey make this dish truly special. Plus, the hands-off cooking method means you can focus on what really matters—spending time with loved ones.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortlessly Delicious: With just a few ingredients, you can create a meal that’s packed with flavor and sure to impress.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the combination of turkey and cranberry sauce—it’s a hit at every table!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep it in the morning, let your Crock Pot do the work, and come home to a warm, ready-to-eat dinner.
• Versatile Options: Feel free to customize this recipe based on your pantry staples or taste preferences!
• Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with protein and wholesome ingredients, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! You’ll find everything you need right in your pantry or local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need for this delightful Crock Pot Turkey Breast with Cranberry Sauce:

For the Turkey

• 3 pound boneless, skinless frozen turkey breast (thawed)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)

For the Sauce

• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 14 ounce can whole berry cranberry sauce (or substitute with tart cherry jam, applesauce, or pineapple chutney)
• 2 tbsp pure maple syrup (or honey)

For Seasoning

• 1 tsp ground sage
• 1 tsp ground mustard powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 2 ounce envelope onion soup mix

For Thickening

• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp cold water

Variations

One of the joys of cooking is making recipes your own! This Crock Pot Turkey Breast with Cranberry Sauce is quite adaptable. Here are some fun variation ideas to try:

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken breasts or even a beef roast for a different twist on this recipe.
• Change up the fruit: Experiment with different sauces like apricot preserves or peach chutney for a unique flavor profile.
• Add vegetables: Toss in some carrots or onions into the crockpot for added nutrition and heartiness.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper if you’re looking for a little heat!

How to Make Crock Pot Turkey Breast with Cranberry Sauce

Step 1: Prepare Your Crockpot

Start by spraying your crockpot with nonstick cooking spray. This small step will ensure that your turkey doesn’t stick, making serving easier later on.

Step 2: Add the Turkey

Next, place your thawed turkey breast into the crockpot—just leave that netting on for now! Don’t forget to set aside any gravy packet that may come with it; you can always use it later.

Step 3: Season It Up

Spread that softened butter over the top of your turkey. Then sprinkle your sage, mustard powder, garlic powder, and onion soup mix on top. These seasonings will infuse wonderful flavors as they cook!

Step 4: Pour on the Goodness

Now it’s time to add your orange juice, cranberry sauce, and maple syrup. This mixture will create a deliciously sweet and tangy sauce that pairs perfectly with turkey.

Step 5: Cook Away!

Set your crockpot to cook on low for about 5 hours or high for 3 hours. During this time, your home will fill with mouthwatering aromas!

Step 6: Slice and Serve

When it’s cooked through and tender, carefully transfer the turkey to a serving plate. Remove that netting before slicing into juicy pieces that are sure to please everyone.

Step 7: Make Your Gravy

Strain those flavorful juices into a saucepan over medium-high heat. Mix together cornstarch and cold water until smooth; add this slurry to your saucepan. Whisk until thickened—this will be your rich gravy!

Step 8: Enjoy!

Finally, pour that luscious gravy over sliced turkey and get ready to dig in! Serve alongside your favorite sides for an unforgettable meal.

Enjoy making this easy yet delicious Crock Pot Turkey Breast with Cranberry Sauce—it’s bound to be a new favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Crock Pot Turkey Breast with Cranberry Sauce

Creating a delicious Crock Pot Turkey Breast with Cranberry Sauce is a breeze, and a few helpful tips can make it even better!

• Thaw your turkey: Ensure the turkey breast is fully thawed before cooking. This helps it cook evenly and ensures that it absorbs all the flavors from the sauce.
• Use fresh ingredients: Whenever possible, use freshly squeezed orange juice instead of store-bought. Fresh juice packs more flavor and a vibrant brightness that elevates the dish.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to tweak the amount of sage and mustard powder based on your personal preference. This allows you to customize the flavor profile to suit your family’s taste buds.
• Let it rest before slicing: After cooking, allow the turkey to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain its juices, keeping each bite tender and flavorful.
• Save leftover sauce: If you have any sauce left after serving, it makes a fantastic addition to sandwiches or as a glaze for roasted vegetables. Don’t let those tasty flavors go to waste!

How to Serve Crock Pot Turkey Breast with Cranberry Sauce

Presenting your Crock Pot Turkey Breast with Cranberry Sauce beautifully can turn an everyday meal into something special. Here are some ideas:

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley or chives: A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the plate.
• Orange zest: Grating a bit of orange peel on top adds an aromatic citrus note that complements the cranberry sauce perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes made with garlic provide a comforting base that pairs well with the savory turkey and sweet cranberry sauce.
• Roasted Brussels sprouts: These crispy, caramelized veggies bring a delightful crunch and earthy flavor that balances out the sweetness of your dish.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast and adds some healthy grains to your meal.
• Green bean almondine: Sautéed green beans tossed with toasted almonds create a lovely texture contrast while adding a nutty flavor that complements the turkey wonderfully.

Now you’re all set to enjoy this delightful dish! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Crock Pot Turkey Breast with Cranberry sauce is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store the leftovers for delicious meals throughout the week. Here’s how to manage your leftovers effectively.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the turkey to cool completely before storing.
• Place sliced turkey and any remaining gravy in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• If you have more leftovers than you can eat within a few days, freezing is a great option!
• Wrap individual slices of turkey tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped turkey in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen turkey overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish with a splash of water or broth, covering with a lid or microwave-safe wrap. Heat on medium power until warmed through.
• Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out!

Can I use fresh turkey breast for the Crock Pot Turkey Breast with Cranberry sauce?

Yes! You can definitely use fresh turkey breast; just adjust the cooking time accordingly. Fresh turkey will typically cook faster than frozen.

How do I achieve a thicker gravy for my Crock Pot Turkey Breast with Cranberry sauce?

To thicken your gravy, mix cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry, then whisk it into the strained juices while heating on medium-high until thickened.

What sides pair well with Crock Pot Turkey Breast with Cranberry sauce?

Great side options include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. The sweet and savory flavors complement many dishes!

Can I substitute ingredients in the Crock Pot Turkey Breast with Cranberry sauce recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap maple syrup for honey or use tart cherry jam instead of cranberry sauce based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Crock Pot Turkey Breast with Cranberry sauce as much as I do! It’s such a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy dinner or meal prep for the week ahead. Don’t hesitate to try it out, and I’m sure you’ll be delighted by its flavor and ease. Happy cooking!