Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast

Published: December 6, 2025

by Victoria

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Preparation: With just a few simple ingredients, this recipe requires minimal effort yet yields maximum flavor.
Perfectly Moist Turkey: The slow cooking method ensures that the turkey breast remains moist and tender throughout.
Versatile Serving Options: Whether it’s for Thanksgiving or special occasion dinner, this dish fits seamlessly into any festive occasion.
Delicious Gravy: The accompanying gravy made from the cooking liquid adds an incredible depth of flavor to each serving.
Feed a Crowd: With generous servings, this recipe can easily feed eight people, making it ideal for large gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your efforts and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Slow Cooker (Crock Pot)
Mixing Bowl
Whisk
Medium Saucepan
Serving Plate

Importance of Each Tool

Slow Cooker (Crock Pot): This appliance provides even heat distribution over several hours, ensuring your turkey stays moist and flavorful.
Mixing Bowl: A sturdy bowl is essential for combining ingredients evenly without spilling.
Whisk: A whisk helps achieve a smooth gravy by breaking up any lumps in the cornstarch mixture.

Ingredients

Crock Pot Turkey Breast only needs 4 ingredients and you won’t believe how easy it is to make! Tender flaky, moist, fool-proof boneless turkey breast recipe that’s perfect for Thanksgiving.

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

Unwrap the turkey breast while keeping the netting on. Place it in your slow cooker.

Step 2: Season the Turkey

Sprinkle salt and pepper over the turkey. Gently rub it in to ensure even seasoning. In a mixing bowl, combine cranberry sauce, onion soup seasoning mix, and orange juice. Pour this mixture over the turkey.

Step 3: Cook Low and Slow

Cook on LOW heat for 5–7 hours. Ensure that the internal temperature reaches at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit; it usually takes around 6 hours.

Step 4: Serve the Turkey

Remove the turkey from the slow cooker and place it on a serving plate. Cover it with tin foil to keep warm. Skim off any excess fat from the crock pot. Pour the remaining liquid into a medium saucepan.

Step 5: Make Gravy

In a small bowl, mix together cornstarch and cold water. Bring the sauce from the slow cooker to a boil in the saucepan. Once boiling, add the cornstarch mixture and whisk until thickened. This should take about 1–2 minutes; adjust heat as needed to prevent burning.

Step 6: Enjoy!

Pour some gravy over the sliced turkey breast before serving. For extra flavor, place additional gravy in a jar alongside your meal for guests to add as desired.

Now you’re ready to impress everyone with your Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast!

How to Serve Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast

Serving your Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast can be as delightful as preparing it. This dish pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes, making it perfect for any occasion.

Traditional Thanksgiving Plate

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes complement the turkey’s flavors perfectly.
Stuffing: Savory stuffing adds texture and absorbs the delicious gravy from the turkey.
Green Bean Casserole: A classic side that brings a creamy and crunchy element to the meal.

Festive Salad Options

Cranberry Spinach Salad: Fresh spinach topped with cranberries, nuts, and a light vinaigrette adds brightness to your plate.
Roasted Beet Salad: Earthy roasted beets with goat cheese and walnuts create a lovely contrast to the turkey.

Creative Sandwiches

Turkey Cranberry Sandwich: Use leftover turkey with cranberry sauce on crusty bread for a quick lunch option.
Turkey Wraps: Roll turkey with lettuce and cream cheese in a tortilla for an easy-to-eat meal.

How to Perfect Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast

Achieving the perfect Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast is simple with a few key tips. Follow these suggestions for tender, flavorful turkey every time.

Choose Quality Turkey: Selecting a fresh, high-quality boneless turkey breast ensures better flavor and texture.
Don’t Skip Seasoning: Properly seasoning the turkey before cooking enhances its natural flavors.
Cook Low and Slow: Cooking on low heat allows the turkey to become tender without drying out.
Check Internal Temperature: Ensure the turkey reaches 165°F for safe consumption while maintaining juiciness.
Rest Before Slicing: Letting the turkey rest helps retain its juices when you slice it.

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast

Pairing sides with your Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast elevates the meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Rich in flavor, these creamy potatoes are a warm companion to your turkey dish.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots add color and a hint of sweetness that complements the savory turkey.
Cranberry Sauce: Homemade or store-bought, this classic sauce enhances both flavor and presentation.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy sprouts add a delightful crunch and earthy taste to your meal.
Cornbread Muffins: These slightly sweet muffins provide a comforting addition to your Thanksgiving spread.
Coleslaw: A refreshing slaw with tangy dressing balances out the richness of the turkey.

These side dishes not only enhance your meal but also make serving your Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast an enjoyable experience for everyone!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking a Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast can be simple, but there are some common mistakes that can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are a few pitfalls to avoid:

Not seasoning properly – Many people skip the seasoning or don’t apply it evenly. Always sprinkle salt and pepper generously over the turkey for better flavor.
Ignoring cooking times – Cooking the turkey for too long can dry it out. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165 degrees.
Skipping the gravy step – Some might think gravy is optional, but it enhances the dish significantly. Follow the steps to create a rich, flavorful sauce.
Overcrowding the crock pot – If your slow cooker is too full, the turkey may not cook evenly. Ensure there’s enough space for heat circulation.
Not letting it rest – Cutting into the turkey immediately after cooking can release juices. Allow it to rest covered with foil for at least 10 minutes before slicing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

item Store leftover Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast in an airtight container.
item It can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast

item Place cooled turkey in a freezer-safe bag or container.
item It’s best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal taste.

Reheating Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast

Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the turkey with foil. Heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave – Slice the turkey and place it on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
Stovetop – Add slices of turkey with some gravy in a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding making a Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast.

Can I use frozen turkey breast?

Yes, you can use frozen turkey breast, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even results.

How do I know when my turkey is done?

Use a meat thermometer; once it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit, it’s safe to eat.

Can I add other flavors?

Definitely! Feel free to add herbs like rosemary or thyme, or different fruit juices for added flavor variations.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, choose a gluten-free onion soup seasoning mix and ensure your cranberry sauce is also gluten-free.

What sides pair well with this dish?

This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad for balance.

Final Thoughts

The Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast is an easy and delicious option that’s perfect for any occasion. Its tender texture and flavorful gravy make it versatile enough for both Thanksgiving and everyday meals. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite spices or sides!

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