Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast

Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast is a delightful dish that’s simple to prepare and bursting with flavor. This recipe is perfect for special occasions, Thanksgiving gatherings, or even a cozy family dinner. With tender, moist turkey bathed in a sweet and tangy cranberry sauce, it guarantees satisfaction at every bite. The best part? It requires minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for busy cooks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just four main ingredients, this recipe simplifies your cooking process while delivering delicious results.
• Flavorful: The combination of cranberry sauce and orange juice infuses the turkey with a delightful sweetness that will impress your guests.
• Versatile: Perfect for holidays or weeknight dinners, this dish fits any occasion beautifully.
• Tender Texture: Slow-cooking the turkey ensures it remains juicy and tender, making every bite unforgettable.
• Minimal Cleanup: Cooking in a crock pot means fewer dishes and easier cleanup, allowing you to enjoy your meal without stress.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the preparation smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 6-quart crock pot
• Mixing bowl
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• 6-quart crock pot: Ideal for cooking large cuts of meat like turkey breast evenly and thoroughly.
• Mixing bowl: Necessary for combining sauces and seasonings without making a mess.
• Medium saucepan: Used to prepare the gravy from the leftover juices in the crock pot.
• Whisk: Helps ensure that the cornstarch mixes well into the sauce for a smooth consistency.

Ingredients

For this Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast, you’ll need the following:

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 Breast

Unwrap the turkey breast while keeping the netting on. Place it into your 6-quart crock pot.

Step 2: Seasoning

Sprinkle salt and pepper over the turkey breast, rubbing them in for even flavor distribution.

Step 3: Mix Sauce Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the whole berry cranberry sauce, onion soup seasoning mix, and orange juice. Pour this mixture evenly over the turkey in the crock pot.

Step 4: Cook the Turkey

Set your crock pot to LOW heat and cook for 5-7 hours. Ensure that the internal temperature reaches at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit; mine took about 6 hours.

Step 5: Prepare Gravy

Once cooked, carefully remove the turkey breast from the crock pot and place it on a serving platter. Cover it with foil to retain heat. Skim any fat from the juices left in the crock pot and pour them into a medium saucepan.

Step 6: Thicken Gravy

In a small bowl, mix together cornstarch and cold water. Bring the sauce from the slow cooker to a boil in your saucepan. Stir in the cornstarch mixture using a whisk until thickened, which should only take about 1-2 minutes.

Step 7: Serve

Pour some gravy over sliced turkey before serving. For added convenience, transfer extra gravy into a jar to allow guests to serve themselves as desired.

How to Serve Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast

Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast is not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this tender turkey.

Sandwiches

• Use sliced turkey in sandwiches with your favorite bread and toppings for a quick meal.

Salads

• Dice the turkey to top fresh greens with cranberries and nuts for a light, flavorful salad.

Tacos

• Shred the turkey and serve it in corn tortillas with avocado and salsa for a fun twist.

Stuffed Potatoes

• Load baked potatoes with shredded turkey, cranberry sauce, and a sprinkle of cheese for a hearty dish.

How to Perfect Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast

To make sure your Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Choose the right size turkey breast: Aim for 5-7 pounds to ensure even cooking in your slow cooker.

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

• Monitor cooking time: Cooking on LOW for 5-7 hours will keep the turkey juicy. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F.

• Let it rest: Allow the turkey to rest after cooking before slicing. This helps retain moisture.

• Prepare gravy carefully: Mix cornstarch with cold water before adding it to hot liquid to prevent clumping.

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast

Pairing side dishes with your Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement its flavors beautifully.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting base for the rich turkey and gravy.

2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and roasted until crispy, these sprouts add a nice crunch and earthiness.

3. Sweet Potato Casserole: A sweet and savory dish that pairs wonderfully with cranberry flavors; top it with crunchy pecans or marshmallows.

4. Green Bean Almondine: Sautéed green beans sprinkled with toasted almonds offer a fresh, crunchy contrast to the tender turkey.

5. Cranberry Sauce: A classic complement that brings out the tartness of the cranberries used in the recipe.

6. Cornbread Muffins: Soft, slightly sweet cornbread muffins make for an excellent side that soaks up gravy beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Neglecting Proper Seasoning: Skipping the salt and pepper can lead to a bland turkey. Always season your turkey breast well to enhance its flavor.
• Overcooking or Undercooking: Cooking times can vary based on the size of the turkey breast. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Not Using Enough Liquid: A dry turkey is disappointing. Make sure there’s enough cranberry sauce and orange juice in the pot to keep the turkey moist throughout cooking.
• Skipping the Gravy Step: The sauce from the slow cooker is essential for flavor. Don’t forget to make the gravy with cornstarch for a delicious finish.
• Ignoring Rest Time: Cutting into the turkey immediately after cooking can cause juices to escape. Let it rest covered with foil for optimal juiciness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast

• Allow the turkey to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe bags or containers, and label with date.
• Best used within 2-3 months for optimal taste.

Reheating Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat until warm (about 20-30 minutes).
• Microwave: Place slices in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power until warm (2-3 minutes).
• Stovetop: Reheat in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of broth or juice to keep moist (5-10 minutes).

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast.

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

Cooking time typically ranges from 5 to 7 hours on LOW heat, depending on the size of your turkey breast.

Can I use frozen turkey breast for this recipe?

Yes, but it’s recommended to thaw it first for even cooking. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using.

What are good side dishes for Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast?

Great sides include mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad that complements the sweetness of the cranberry sauce.

Can I substitute other fruits instead of cranberry sauce?

Absolutely! You can use apple sauce or even peach preserves for a different flavor profile that pairs nicely with turkey.

Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free onion soup seasoning mix instead of standard options.

Final Thoughts

Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly flavorful and versatile. This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s Thanksgiving or just a family dinner. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite herbs or spices. Enjoy this delicious recipe today!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: About 8 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast is a tender and juicy dish that brings together the festive flavors of cranberry and orange juice, making it an ideal centerpiece for any gathering. This easy-to-follow recipe allows you to enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions like Thanksgiving. Simply season the turkey breast, mix the sauce ingredients, and let your crock pot do the work. The result is a succulent turkey bathed in a sweet and tangy sauce that will leave your guests asking for seconds. Serve it with your favorite sides for a well-rounded meal that satisfies every palate.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Unwrap the turkey breast and place it in a 6-quart crock pot.
2. Season generously with salt and pepper.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the cranberry sauce, onion soup seasoning mix, and orange juice. Pour over the turkey.
4. Cover and cook on LOW for 5-7 hours, checking that the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F.
5. Once cooked, remove the turkey and cover with foil to keep warm.
6. To make gravy, pour the remaining juices into a saucepan, bring to a boil, then stir in cornstarch mixed with cold water until thickened.
7. Serve sliced turkey with gravy poured on top.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 9g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 29g
• Cholesterol: 90mg