Imagine a holiday-worthy meal that requires minimal hands-on time but delivers maximum flavor and tenderness. This recipe for Juicy Slow Cooker Turkey with Creamy Mashed Potatoes and Homemade Gravy transforms a simple turkey breast into a succulent centerpiece, complemented by fluffy, rich mashed potatoes and a luscious gravy made right from the turkey’s own flavorful juices. Forget the stress of oven roasting; your slow cooker is about to become your new best friend for creating an unforgettable turkey dinner.
Whether you’re planning a cozy weeknight meal for your family or seeking an effortless alternative for a holiday gathering like Thanksgiving or Christmas, this slow cooker method is a game-changer. By utilizing a boneless or bone-in turkey breast, along with a medley of fresh herbs and simple seasonings, you can achieve a moist, tender turkey that practically melts in your mouth. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity: the slow cooker does most of the heavy lifting, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your meal or simply relax. Plus, the natural juices released during cooking form the foundation for an incredibly rich, homemade gravy, eliminating the need for any store-bought packets and elevating your dinner to gourmet status.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, ensuring you achieve a truly delicious turkey dinner with perfectly cooked mashed potatoes and a thick, flavorful gravy. Get ready to impress your family and friends with an easy-to-prepare meal that tastes like it took hours of complex cooking.
Essential Ingredients for Your Succulent Slow Cooker Turkey Dinner:
To prepare this incredibly satisfying slow cooker turkey and mashed potato feast, you’ll need a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its use of common pantry staples and fresh herbs to create a deeply flavorful dish.
For the Slow Cooker Turkey and Potatoes:
- Turkey Breast: Select a 3-8 lb turkey breast from your local grocery store. You can choose either a bone-in or boneless turkey breast. While boneless is often quicker to cook and easier to carve, a bone-in breast can sometimes offer a richer flavor.
- Potatoes: Approximately 5-6 large russet potatoes are ideal. Russet potatoes are known for their high starch content, which makes them incredibly fluffy and absorbent, perfect for creamy mashed potatoes. Make sure they are peeled before adding to the slow cooker.
For the Creamy Mashed Potatoes (Finishing Touches):
- Liquid: ½ – 1 cup of milk. The type of milk (whole, 2%, skim) depends on your preference for richness. Warm milk tends to incorporate more smoothly into mashed potatoes.
- Butter: 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, sliced. Unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of your dish.
For the Aromatic Garlic Herb Butter:
This herb butter is the secret to a flavorful and moist turkey. It infuses the meat with aromatic goodness as it cooks slowly.
- Butter: ½ cup of softened unsalted butter. It’s crucial for the butter to be softened to room temperature so it can be easily mixed with the herbs and rubbed onto the turkey.
- Seasoning:
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic (freshly minced offers the best flavor)
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage (or ½ teaspoon dried sage)
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (or ½ teaspoon dried rosemary)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
Fresh herbs are highly recommended for their vibrant flavor, but dried herbs can be used in a pinch, just remember to use less as their flavor is more concentrated.
For the Rich Homemade Gravy:
Transform the flavorful drippings from your slow cooker into a silky, savory gravy.
- Liquid Base: The turkey drippings from the slow cooker (supplement with chicken broth or cold water if needed to reach 3 cups).
- Thickening Agent: 2 tablespoons cornstarch. This will create a smooth, lump-free gravy.
- Water: 2 tablespoons cold water, for creating a cornstarch slurry.
Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Slow Cooker Turkey, Mashed Potatoes, and Gravy
Follow these easy steps to achieve a mouthwatering turkey dinner that’s as simple to make as it is delicious to eat. This recipe ensures a moist turkey, fluffy mashed potatoes, and a rich, savory gravy from scratch.
Preparing the Turkey for the Slow Cooker:
- Prepare the Potatoes: Thoroughly wash and peel the russet potatoes. Leave them whole; resist the urge to slice or dice them, as keeping them whole helps them cook evenly and absorb less liquid, resulting in perfectly fluffy mashed potatoes.
- Prepare the Turkey: Carefully remove the turkey breast from its packaging. Pat the entire turkey dry with paper towels. This crucial step helps the herb butter adhere better and contributes to a more flavorful skin (if applicable). Check the turkey cavity for any giblet packets and remove them.
- Make the Garlic Herb Butter: In a small mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter with salt, black pepper, minced garlic, fresh sage, fresh rosemary, and fresh thyme. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated, forming a fragrant herb butter.
- Season the Turkey: If your turkey breast has skin, gently loosen the skin over the breast meat without tearing it. Rub about half of the garlic herb butter directly onto the meat under the skin. Then, rub the remaining herb butter generously over the top of the skin (or directly onto the meat if using a skinless breast). This ensures maximum flavor penetration and helps keep the turkey incredibly moist.
Cooking in the Slow Cooker:
- Load the Slow Cooker: Carefully place the prepared turkey breast into your slow cooker. Arrange the whole, peeled potatoes around the turkey. If your turkey breast came with a gravy packet, you can add it to the slow cooker now for extra flavor, or reserve it if you prefer to rely solely on the homemade gravy from drippings.
- Slow Cook to Perfection: Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Cook on the LOW setting for 5-8 hours. The cooking time will vary depending on the size of your turkey breast and your specific slow cooker model. The turkey is perfectly cooked when its internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F (74 degrees C) when measured with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast. The potatoes should be fork-tender.
Creating Creamy Mashed Potatoes:
- Mash the Potatoes: Once the turkey is cooked, carefully remove the tender potatoes from the slow cooker and transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Add the sliced butter and milk. Using a potato masher, mash the potatoes until they are smooth and creamy, with no lumps remaining. Taste and adjust seasoning (salt and pepper) if necessary.
Crafting the Velvety Gravy:
- Collect the Drippings: Carefully strain the flavorful turkey juices from the bottom of the crockpot into a separate bowl. Let the drippings sit for a few minutes to allow the fat to separate and rise to the top. If you have less than 3 cups of drippings, you can add extra chicken broth or water to reach the desired measurement.
- Skim the Fat: Once the fat has risen, use a spoon or a fat separator to skim off about ¼ cup of the fat from the top. Discard the fat, or save it for another use if you prefer. This step makes your gravy less greasy and more palatable.
- Prepare Cornstarch Slurry: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until smooth and no lumps remain. This is your cornstarch slurry, which will thicken the gravy.
- Thicken the Gravy: Pour the strained turkey drippings (with fat skimmed) into a saucepan and place it over medium heat. Once the liquid begins to simmer, slowly whisk in the cornstarch slurry. Continue to simmer, whisking constantly, for 3-4 minutes, or until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Slice the tender turkey breast, serve alongside the creamy mashed potatoes, and generously spoon over the homemade gravy. Your ultimate easy turkey dinner is ready!
Storing Your Delicious Leftovers:
This slow cooker turkey recipe is fantastic for meal prepping or enjoying throughout the week. Proper storage ensures your leftovers remain fresh and delicious.
Refrigeration:
Once the turkey breast, mashed potatoes, and gravy have cooled down to room temperature (within 2 hours of cooking), transfer them into separate, airtight containers. Storing them separately helps maintain their individual textures and flavors. These leftovers will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For reheating, gently warm the turkey and gravy on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. For mashed potatoes, you might need to add a splash of milk or broth while reheating to restore their creaminess.
Freezing:
For longer storage, this crockpot turkey breast and gravy recipe freezes beautifully. Once completely cooled, place the cooked turkey (sliced or shredded) into a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. Do the same for the gravy and mashed potatoes, using separate containers. Label each container with the date. Frozen turkey and gravy can be stored for up to 3 months, while mashed potatoes are best consumed within 1-2 months for optimal texture. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Expert Tips and Tricks for the Best Slow Cooker Turkey Breast:
Achieving a perfectly cooked, juicy turkey breast every time is easy with these helpful tips and tricks. From choosing the right turkey to mastering your gravy, these insights will elevate your slow cooker turkey dinner.
Selecting the Right Turkey Breast: Boneless vs. Bone-In
You have the flexibility to use either boneless or bone-in turkey breasts for this recipe.
- Boneless Turkey Breast: This option typically cooks faster and is incredibly easy to carve. It’s a great choice for quick weeknight meals or when you want minimal fuss. Ensure it’s not too small (less than 3 lbs) or it might dry out.
- Bone-In Turkey Breast: While it takes a bit longer to cook through, a bone-in turkey breast can impart a deeper, richer flavor to the meat and the drippings, which are essential for your homemade gravy. The bone also helps insulate the meat, often leading to a more consistently moist result. Whichever you choose, ensure you pat it dry before seasoning.
Remember that the cooking time will need to be adjusted based on the type and size of the turkey breast. Always rely on a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Ensuring Food Safety: What Temperature Does Turkey Need to Reach?
For safe consumption, it is absolutely crucial that your turkey is cooked to the correct internal temperature. Use a reliable meat thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of the turkey breast, avoiding the bone. The turkey is safe to eat when it has reached at least 165 degrees F (74 degrees C). Cooking on the low setting of your slow cooker helps ensure slow, even cooking, minimizing the risk of drying out the meat while reaching the safe temperature.
Choosing the Best Potatoes for Mashing:
While the recipe calls for russet potatoes, you have options for truly delicious mashed potatoes.
- Russet Potatoes: As recommended, russets are excellent for mashing due to their high starch content, which results in a light, fluffy, and creamy texture.
- Yukon Gold Potatoes: These are another fantastic choice. They have a naturally buttery flavor and a slightly waxy texture, which makes for incredibly smooth and rich mashed potatoes without becoming gluey.
- Red or White Potatoes: While usable, these tend to be waxier and might yield a slightly denser mash. If you prefer a less fluffy, more “rustic” mashed potato, they can be a good alternative.
Regardless of the type, ensure your potatoes are peeled and left whole for slow cooking to absorb the turkey flavors.
Enhancing Flavor: Herb and Seasoning Variations:
Don’t be afraid to experiment with the garlic herb butter.
- Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the herb butter for a bright, aromatic lift.
- Spicy Kick: A pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes can add a subtle heat if you enjoy a little spice.
- Additional Aromatics: Placing sliced onions, carrots, or celery underneath and around the turkey in the slow cooker can add even more depth to the drippings for your gravy.
Perfecting Your Homemade Gravy:
Achieving the perfect gravy consistency is key.
- Consistency Control: If your gravy is too thin after simmering, mix a small additional amount of cornstarch with cold water into a slurry and whisk it into the simmering gravy, cooking for another minute or two. If it’s too thick, simply whisk in a little more chicken broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Extra Richness: For an even richer gravy, consider adding a splash of dry white wine or a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce to the drippings before thickening.
More Delightful Side Dish Recipes to Complete Your Meal:
No turkey dinner is truly complete without an array of delicious side dishes. Here are some of our family favorites that would pair beautifully with your juicy slow cooker turkey and creamy mashed potatoes:
- Garlic Pull Apart Rolls – An Irresistible Bread Side: These soft, garlicky rolls are perfect for soaking up every last bit of gravy.
- Refreshing Avocado Corn Salad: A light and vibrant salad that offers a fresh contrast to the richness of the turkey and potatoes.
- Savory Ranch Bacon Pasta Salad: A crowd-pleasing pasta salad that brings a delightful creamy and savory element to your table.
- Classic Deviled Egg Pasta Salad: A unique twist on two beloved classics, combining the flavors of deviled eggs with a hearty pasta salad.
- Extra Garlic & Herb Mashed Potatoes: If you’re a mashed potato aficionado, this recipe doubles down on the herbaceous flavor, making an even more aromatic side.
Juicy Slow Cooker Turkey with Mashed Potatoes
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Ingredients
Turkey
- 3-8 lb turkey breast (bone-in or boneless)
- 5-6 large russet potatoes
Mashed Potato Ingredients (for finishing):
- ½-1 cup milk
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, sliced
Garlic Herb Butter:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh sage, or ½ tsp dried
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, or ½ tsp dried
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme, or ½ tsp dried
Gravy:
- 2 tbsp cold water
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
Instructions
Turkey Preparation
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Wash and peel the potatoes, leaving them whole. Do not slice or dice the potatoes at this stage.
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Pat the turkey breast completely dry with paper towels. Remove any giblet packets from the turkey cavity, if present.
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In a small bowl, thoroughly mix all the garlic herb butter ingredients until well combined.
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Gently rub half of the garlic herb butter under the turkey skin (if applicable), then generously spread the remaining butter over the top of the skin.
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Place the seasoned turkey breast into your slow cooker. If your turkey came with a gravy packet, you can add it to the slow cooker now.
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Arrange the whole, peeled potatoes around the turkey breast in the slow cooker.
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Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on the LOW setting for 5-8 hours, or until the internal temperature of the turkey reaches 165 degrees F (74 degrees C) and the potatoes are tender.
Mashed Potatoes
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Once cooked, carefully remove the potatoes from the slow cooker and transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Add the sliced butter and milk, then mash until smooth and creamy. Season to taste.
Homemade Gravy
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Carefully strain the turkey drippings from the bottom of the slow cooker into a bowl. If you have less than 3 cups of liquid, add chicken broth or water to reach the measurement.
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Allow the drippings to sit for a few minutes, then spoon off and discard approximately ¼ cup of the fat that rises to the top.
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In a separate small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until a smooth slurry forms. Set aside.
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Pour the skimmed drippings into a saucepan and place over medium heat. Once the liquid begins to simmer, gradually whisk in the cornstarch slurry. Continue to simmer and whisk for 3-4 minutes, or until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.
Video
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 74g |
Protein: 69g |
Fat: 29g |
Saturated Fat: 16g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 8g |
Trans Fat: 1g |
Cholesterol: 214mg |
Sodium: 1479mg |
Potassium: 2312mg |
Fiber: 5g |
Sugar: 5g |
Vitamin A: 925IU |
Vitamin C: 24mg |
Calcium: 176mg |
Iron: 5mg
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation only.
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