Crock Pot Turkey Breast with Cranberry

Crock Pot Turkey Breast with Cranberry is the kind of cozy, no stress dinner that feels special without the extra work. Because it slow cooks with sweet cranberry gravy, it turns out juicy, comforting, and perfect for small holidays or relaxed family meals.

This easy slow cooker turkey dinner works beautifully when you want classic flavors without roasting a whole bird. Also, it fits smaller gatherings, weeknight cravings, or last minute holiday plans. I love how the cranberry gravy cooks right alongside the turkey, so everything tastes rich and balanced. As a result, you get tender slices, minimal prep, and a meal that feels thoughtful without feeling overwhelming.

Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Turkey Breast with Cranberry

Crock Pot Turkey Breast with Cranberry keeps dinner simple while still feeling festive. First, the slow cooker does all the work, which means no oven stress and no constant checking. Also, the turkey stays moist thanks to the gentle heat and flavorful sauce.

Meanwhile, the cranberry gravy brings a sweet savory balance that feels comforting and familiar. However, it never tastes heavy or overly sweet. This recipe also works well for smaller groups, so you avoid leftovers that take over the fridge.

In fact, I often make this when I want a holiday style meal on a regular weekend. Because the prep stays minimal, it fits busy schedules easily. As a result, you get tender turkey, smooth gravy, and happy faces at the table with very little effort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Crock Pot Turkey Breast with Cranberry uses simple ingredients that work together naturally. Because everything cooks in one pot, each item plays an important role in flavor and texture.

You only need a few pantry staples, plus the turkey itself. Also, the substitutions make it flexible if you need to adjust based on what you already have. As a result, this recipe feels approachable and forgiving.

Turkey and Main Ingredients

The star is a 3 pound boneless, skinless turkey breast that has been fully thawed. Keep the netting on during cooking, since it helps the turkey hold its shape and slice neatly later.

Softened unsalted butter spreads easily over the meat and keeps it juicy. Orange juice adds brightness, while whole berry cranberry sauce brings that classic sweet tang. Pure maple syrup balances the flavors gently without overpowering the turkey. Together, these ingredients create a moist, tender result every time.

Seasonings and Flavor Boosters

Ground sage gives the turkey a warm, familiar taste. Mustard powder adds subtle depth, while garlic powder keeps everything savory. An onion soup mix ties the flavors together and builds a rich base for the gravy.

Cornstarch and cold water help thicken the cooking liquid into a smooth gravy at the end. Because of these seasonings, the Crock Pot Turkey Breast with Cranberry tastes full and comforting without needing complicated steps.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

This recipe adapts easily, which makes it great for different tastes or pantry needs. Because the slow cooker is forgiving, small swaps still lead to good results.

You can adjust sweetness, fruit flavor, or even the type of turkey. As a result, this dish works for many households and occasions.

Sweetener and Fruit Swaps

If maple syrup is not available, honey works just as well. It keeps the gravy smooth and lightly sweet. Instead of cranberry sauce, you can use tart cherry jam, applesauce, or pineapple chutney for a different twist.

Orange juice can also be replaced with pineapple or papaya juice. Each option adds a gentle fruit note while keeping the gravy balanced and bright.

Turkey and Soup Mix Options

You can use a bone in turkey breast if needed. However, it may take a little longer to cook through. A homemade onion soup mix also works if you prefer controlling the sodium level.

No matter the option, the Crock Pot Turkey Breast with Cranberry still turns out tender and flavorful when cooked low and slow.

How to Make Crock Pot Turkey Breast with Cranberry

This recipe follows simple steps that feel relaxed and manageable. Because everything stays in the slow cooker, cleanup stays easy too.

Once you try it, the process becomes second nature. Then, you can enjoy the results without rushing.

Preparing the Turkey for the Slow Cooker

Start by spraying a 6 quart or larger crockpot with nonstick spray. Place the thawed turkey breast inside with the netting still on. Set aside any gravy packet that comes with the turkey for another use.

Next, spread softened butter evenly over the turkey. Then, sprinkle the sage, mustard powder, garlic powder, and onion soup mix across the surface. This step builds flavor right from the start.

Pour in the orange juice, cranberry sauce, and maple syrup. Make sure the liquids settle around the turkey so they cook evenly. At this point, everything is ready to slow cook.

Slow Cooking Instructions and Timing

Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on low for 5 hours or on high for 3 hours. However, cooking on low gives the juiciest results.

Once done, carefully transfer the turkey to a serving plate. Remove and discard the netting, then slice the turkey against the grain. Meanwhile, reserve the cooking liquid for the gravy.

Making the Cranberry Gravy

Strain the remaining liquid into a saucepan and place it over medium high heat. Whisk the cornstarch with cold water in a small bowl.

Then, slowly stir the mixture into the saucepan. Keep whisking until the gravy thickens and looks smooth. Serve the cranberry gravy over the sliced turkey for the best flavor.

Cooking Times, Doneness, and Safety Tips

Turkey breast usually finishes in 5 hours on low or 3 hours on high. However, slow cookers can vary, so always check doneness.

The internal temperature should reach 165°F at the thickest part. Cooking turkey in a slow cooker is safe as long as it reaches this temperature. Also, avoid overcooking, since extra time can dry the meat slightly even with liquid present.

If cooking from frozen, expect closer to 6 to 8 hours on low. Always use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Texture, Flavor, and Serving Suggestions

This Crock Pot Turkey Breast with Cranberry turns out juicy, tender, and easy to slice. The gravy tastes sweet and savory with a gentle tang from the cranberry and citrus.

It pairs well with mashed potatoes, stuffing, or roasted vegetables. Meanwhile, the leftovers work beautifully in sandwiches.

Each serving feels filling and satisfying, with a solid protein boost and balanced carbs from the gravy. Calories stay moderate for a holiday style meal, and the turkey provides plenty of protein to keep you full.

Storage, Leftovers, and Reheating

Store leftover turkey and gravy in an airtight container in the fridge. They stay fresh for several days when sealed properly.

For reheating, warm the turkey gently with a little gravy to keep it moist. You can use the microwave or stovetop. As a result, leftovers taste just as comforting the next day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Other Recipes You May Enjoy

• savory slow cooker crack potato soup
• comforting crockpot French dip sandwiches
• delicious carnitas tacos slow cooker style
• slow cooker chicken enchilada casserole
• simple crockpot vegetarian chili
• hearty crockpot beef and barley soup

Conclusion

Crock Pot Turkey Breast with Cranberry proves that a comforting, holiday style meal does not need to be complicated. Because it cooks slowly with sweet savory gravy, the turkey stays juicy and flavorful.

Whether you make it for a small gathering or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe fits easily into real life. For more slow cooker inspiration and serving ideas, you can also follow along on Pinterest at pinterest.