Slow Cooker Turkey Breast with Gravy

Slow Cooker Turkey Breast with Gravy is a perfect dish for holidays, family gatherings, or any time you crave a comforting and delicious meal. Using a slow cooker ensures the turkey breast remains moist and tender, while the simple gravy adds a rich flavor that complements the turkey perfectly. This recipe is easy to prepare and allows you to focus on other dishes or activities while it cooks. Let’s dive into the steps to make this delightful meal!

Ingredients

• 1 6-lb Honeysuckle bone-in turkey breast, fully thawed
• 1 1-ounce package dry onion soup mix
• 3 tablespoons butter, in slices
• For the gravy:
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Breast

1. Rinse and Dry: Rinse the fully thawed turkey breast under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. This ensures that the seasoning will adhere well and the turkey will cook evenly.
2. Season the Turkey: Rub the dry onion soup mix all over the turkey breast, ensuring it is evenly coated. The onion soup mix adds a flavorful seasoning blend that infuses the turkey with a delicious taste.

Step 2: Set Up the Slow Cooker

1. Add Butter: Place the turkey breast in the slow cooker, breast side up. Arrange the slices of butter on top of the turkey. The butter will melt and baste the turkey as it cooks, keeping it moist and adding rich flavor.
2. Cook: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Cooking on low allows the turkey to cook slowly and evenly, ensuring a tender and juicy result.

Step 3: Prepare the Gravy

1. Transfer Juices: Once the turkey is fully cooked, transfer it to a cutting board and let it rest. Pour the cooking juices from the slow cooker into a medium saucepan. These juices are packed with flavor and will form the base of the gravy.
2. Thicken the Gravy: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Heat the cooking juices over medium heat and gradually whisk in the cornstarch slurry. Continue to whisk until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The cornstarch slurry helps to thicken the gravy without clumping, creating a smooth and rich sauce.

Step 4: Serve

1. Carve the Turkey: Carve the turkey breast into slices and arrange on a serving platter. Letting the turkey rest before carving allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.
2. Serve with Gravy: Serve the turkey slices with the prepared gravy on the side. The rich, flavorful gravy enhances the taste of the turkey, making each bite delicious. Enjoy your meal!

Cooking Notes

• Thawing: Ensure the turkey breast is fully thawed before cooking. This can be done by allowing it to thaw in the refrigerator for 1-3 days, depending on the size. Thawing the turkey properly ensures it cooks evenly and thoroughly.
• Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey breast to ensure it is cooked through. The safe internal temperature for poultry is 165°F (74°C).
• Butter: The butter adds richness and helps keep the turkey moist. You can substitute with olive oil if preferred. If you like a more intense flavor, you can also mix herbs or garlic with the butter before placing it on the turkey.

Variations

• Herb-Infused Turkey: Add fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or sage under the skin and inside the cavity for added flavor. These herbs complement the turkey and add a fragrant aroma to the dish.
• Garlic Butter Turkey: Mix minced garlic with the butter before placing it on the turkey for a garlicky twist. Garlic adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the turkey.
• Citrus Turkey: Add slices of lemon or orange inside the cavity and around the turkey breast for a fresh, citrusy flavor. The citrus adds a bright note that balances the richness of the turkey and gravy.

Keto Version

This recipe is already keto-friendly, as it uses butter and minimal carbs. Ensure that the onion soup mix and other ingredients do not contain added sugars or high-carb fillers. Serve with keto-friendly sides such as cauliflower mash or roasted vegetables.

Low Carb Version

For a lower-carb option, ensure the dry onion soup mix is low in carbs or make your own seasoning blend using dried onion flakes, beef bouillon granules, and a mix of spices. Serve with low-carb sides like steamed green beans or a fresh salad.

Slow Cooker Turkey Breast with Gravy is a simple and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The slow cooker ensures the turkey remains moist and flavorful, while the easy-to-make gravy adds a rich and savory touch. This recipe allows you to enjoy a comforting and satisfying meal with minimal effort. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a hearty meal with family and friends. Happy cooking