Slow Cooker Turkey Breast With Dressing
Are you looking for an easy and delicious way to cook turkey breast? Look no further than your trusty slow cooker! This method not only produces tender and juicy turkey, but it also frees up valuable oven space during the busy holiday season. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making a mouthwatering slow cooker turkey breast with dressing. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet impressive dish.
Why Choose Slow Cooker?
Cooking turkey breast in a slow cooker has numerous advantages. First and foremost, it requires minimal effort on your part. Once youโve prepared the turkey breast and dressing, all you have to do is set it and forget it. The slow cooker does all the work while you tend to other holiday preparations. Additionally, the slow and gentle cooking process ensures that the turkey breast remains moist and flavorful. No more worries about dry and overcooked turkey!
Prepping the Turkey Breast
Before placing the turkey breast in the slow cooker, itโs essential to season it properly. This step ensures that the flavors penetrate the meat and enhance its taste. You can use a combination of herbs and spices, such as rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning mixture all over the turkey breast, making sure to coat it evenly. This will result in a flavorful and aromatic turkey that will leave everyone wanting seconds.
Creating the Dressing
The dressing is an integral part of this dish, adding a savory and comforting element to the turkey breast. You can make a traditional bread-based dressing or get creative with your favorite ingredients. Whether you prefer a classic sage and onion dressing or something more adventurous like a cornbread and sausage stuffing, the choice is yours. Just make sure to prepare the dressing according to your desired recipe and have it ready to be added to the slow cooker along with the turkey breast.
Slow and Steady Cooking
Now that the turkey breast is seasoned, and the dressing is prepared, itโs time to let the slow cooker work its magic. Place the turkey breast in the slow cooker and pour the dressing around it. Cover the slow cooker with a lid and set it on low heat. Allow the turkey breast to cook slowly for several hours until it reaches an internal temperature of 165์งธF (74์งธC). The low and slow cooking method ensures that the turkey breast remains tender and juicy, while the flavors meld together beautifully.
Serving and Enjoying
Once the turkey breast is cooked to perfection, itโs time to serve and enjoy this delicious dish. Carefully remove the turkey breast from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a moist and succulent turkey. Serve the turkey breast alongside the dressing, and if desired, complement the meal with your favorite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or cranberry sauce. Get ready for a Thanksgiving feast like no other!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a bone-in turkey breast for this recipe?
Yes, you can use a bone-in turkey breast for this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as bone-in turkey breasts may take slightly longer to cook.
2. Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker along with the turkey breast?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions to the slow cooker can enhance the flavor of the turkey and create a delicious broth. Just chop the vegetables into large chunks and place them around the turkey breast before cooking.
3. Can I use stuffing instead of dressing?
Yes, you can use stuffing instead of dressing. Stuff the turkey breast with your favorite stuffing recipe and cook it in the slow cooker as directed. Make sure the stuffing reaches an internal temperature of 165์งธF (74์งธC) to ensure food safety.
4. Can I use frozen turkey breast?
Itโs best to thaw the turkey breast before cooking it in the slow cooker. Thawing the turkey breast ensures even cooking and reduces the risk of foodborne illnesses. Follow the recommended thawing guidelines provided by the USDA.
5. Can I use a different meat besides turkey breast?
While this recipe specifically focuses on turkey breast, you can certainly adapt it to other meats. Chicken breast or pork tenderloin can be great alternatives. Adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly.
6. Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian or vegan version of this recipe by using plant-based substitutes for the turkey breast and dressing. There are excellent plant-based options available that can mimic the flavors and textures of meat.
7. Can I use a larger or smaller slow cooker for this recipe?
You can use a larger or smaller slow cooker, depending on the size of your turkey breast and the amount of dressing. Just make sure the slow cooker is filled about halfway with the turkey breast and dressing to ensure proper cooking.
8. Can I prepare the turkey breast and dressing the night before?
Yes, you can prepare the turkey breast and dressing the night before and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, follow the instructions provided and adjust the cooking time slightly if necessary.
In conclusion, slow cooker turkey breast with dressing is a convenient and delicious way to enjoy a flavorful turkey dinner. With minimal effort, you can create a moist and tender turkey that will impress your guests. So, dust off your slow cooker and get ready to savor every bite of this mouthwatering dish. Happy cooking!
Slow Cooker Turkey Breast With Dressing
Ingredientsย ย
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 ยฝ large yellow onions , finely chopped
- 4 large celery stalks , finely chopped or adjust to your preference
- 1 (8 oz) package of dry bread stuffing mix with seasoning packet
- 1 (16 oz) can of whole berry cranberry sauce
- ยฝ cup melted butter
- ยฝ cup chicken broth
- ยฝ tsp salt
- 1 (7 lb) bone-in turkey breast with pop-up timer
- ยฝ tsp salt
Instructionsย
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Cook and stir the onions and celery in the melted butter until the onions become translucent, which should take around 8 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Place a plastic liner inside a 6-quart slow cooker. Add the dry bread stuffing to the liner bag and sprinkle the contents of the seasoning packet over the bread. Stir in the cooked onions and celery, cranberry sauce, 1/2 cup of melted butter, chicken broth, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Be careful not to pierce the bag.
- Rinse the turkey breast and pat it dry with paper towels. Season the turkey breast with 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Push the dressing mixture to the edge of the slow cooker and place the turkey breast into the cooker with the pop-up timer facing upward.
- Cook on High heat until the pop-up timer pops, which should take about 4 to 4 1/2 hours.
- Transfer the cooked turkey breast to a cutting board and let it stand for 10 minutes before serving. Transfer the dressing to a serving bowl and serve it alongside the turkey.
- If you plan to make gravy, use 1 1/2 cups of broth instead of 1/2 cup to cook the turkey. Once the turkey is done, transfer it to a cutting board and remove 2 cups of pot liquor from the slow cooker. Bring
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