If you’re looking for a comforting, hands-off way to enjoy a juicy, flavorful turkey, this Crockpot Turkey Breast with Herb Butter and Savory Gravy Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Tender and infused with delicate herb butter, each bite melts in your mouth, while the rich, velvety gravy elevates the whole experience. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe delivers moist turkey without the fuss of watching over the oven.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might be simple, but they are the heart of this dish, contributing layers of flavor, depth, and the perfect balance between savory and aromatic. Each element has a role, from tenderizing the turkey with herb butter to crafting a luscious gravy that brings everything together.
- 3-3.5 lb boneless turkey breast: The centerpiece of the dish, ensuring tenderness and easy carving.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened): Adds rich creaminess and helps the herbs infuse deeply.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings savory warmth without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that brightens up the turkey.
- 1 teaspoon seasoning salt (such as Lawry’s): Enhances the natural flavors with balanced seasoning.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle subtle spice to round out the seasonings.
- 1 cup low sodium chicken, turkey, or vegetable broth: Forms the base for that unforgettable savory gravy.
- 2 tablespoons corn starch: Thickens the gravy to the perfect velvety consistency.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley: Adds a hint of earthiness and a touch of green.
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme: Provides a subtle woodsy note that complements poultry beautifully.
- 1 pinch black pepper: A tiny boost to finish the flavor of the gravy.
How to Make Crockpot Turkey Breast with Herb Butter and Savory Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Season the Turkey
The magic starts by mixing softened butter with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, seasoning salt, and black pepper. This fragrant herb butter isn’t just a topping; it seeps into the turkey during cooking, locking in moisture and creating incredible flavor from the inside out.
Step 2: Prepare the Crockpot
Place your turkey breast right in the crockpot, then generously rub the herb butter mixture all over it. Make sure every crevice has a touch of seasoning—that’s how you get every slice bursting with taste. This slow cooker method means no constant checking, just set it and forget it.
Step 3: Cook the Turkey
Cover and cook on low for a full 5 hours. This low and slow process gently breaks down the turkey fibers, making it wonderfully tender while keeping it juicy. The key is to cook until the internal temperature hits 165°F to ensure safe and perfectly cooked meat.
Step 4: Make the Savory Gravy
Once the turkey is done, strain the cooking juices into a saucepan. In a small bowl, whisk the broth with corn starch until smooth, then stir that into the juices. Heat gently until the gravy thickens to a silky finish, adding parsley, thyme, and a pinch of pepper to deepen the flavor. This gravy is the best way to soak up every bit of the turkey’s goodness.
Step 5: Rest and Slice
Before slicing, let the turkey rest for a few minutes so the juices redistribute, ensuring each slice stays moist. Then carve and serve hot alongside your homemade herb gravy.
How to Serve Crockpot Turkey Breast with Herb Butter and Savory Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme sprigs add a lovely bright touch and a pop of color. A few dashes of flaky sea salt on top can enhance texture and flavor just before serving.
Side Dishes
Classic mashed potatoes or creamy sweet potato mash pair beautifully, soaking up the gravy with every bite. Roasted seasonal vegetables, like carrots or Brussels sprouts, bring natural sweetness and roast-char flavors that complement the tender turkey exquisitely.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, arrange thick turkey slices over a bed of wild rice pilaf, drizzle the herb gravy across the top, and garnish with edible flowers or microgreens. It’s a feast for the eyes and the palate, perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, wrap any leftover turkey tightly in foil or store in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 to 4 days, perfect for tasty sandwiches or quick reheats during the week.
Freezing
If you want to save turkey for later, slice and freeze cooked turkey breast along with some gravy in freezer-safe containers. It stays good for up to 3 months and allows you to enjoy this delicious meal without the effort of cooking from scratch again.
Reheating
Reheat gently in the oven at 325°F covered with foil to maintain moisture, or warm slices in a skillet with a splash of broth. Pour warmed gravy over the turkey to keep it tender and flavorful when serving leftovers.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in turkey breast for this recipe?
Absolutely! Bone-in turkey breast can work well in the crockpot, but it might require a bit longer cooking time to reach the safe internal temperature. Just keep an eye on it and use a meat thermometer for best results.
What can I substitute for Italian seasoning?
If you don’t have Italian seasoning on hand, mixing dried oregano, basil, and rosemary works perfectly. These herbs offer similar flavor profiles and will give your turkey that lovely herbaceous note.
Is it necessary to make the gravy with corn starch?
The corn starch is key for thickening the gravy to a smooth, luscious texture. If you prefer, you can use flour as a thickener, but be sure to mix it well with cold broth to avoid lumps.
Can I cook the turkey on high instead of low?
You can, but cooking on high might dry out the turkey and won’t give as tender results. Slow cooking on low heat ensures that perfect juicy texture with minimal effort.
How do I know when the turkey is fully cooked?
Using a meat thermometer is the safest way—aim for an internal temperature of 165°F in the thickest part of the turkey breast. This confirms that it’s safe to eat and optimally cooked for juicy results.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly heartwarming about a Crockpot Turkey Breast with Herb Butter and Savory Gravy Recipe that feels both special and effortless. It’s one of those dishes that invites you to slow down and savor every bite, whether for a casual family meal or a holiday centerpiece. Give this recipe a try—you’ll find it quickly becomes a beloved classic in your kitchen too!
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Crockpot Turkey Breast with Herb Butter and Savory Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 hours
- Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This easy Crockpot Turkey Breast recipe delivers tender, juicy turkey with a flavorful herb and garlic butter rub. Slow-cooked to perfection, the turkey is served with a rich homemade gravy made from the cooking juices, perfect for a comforting family meal with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Turkey
- 3–3.5 lb boneless turkey breast
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon seasoning salt (such as Lawry’s)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Gravy
- 1 cup low sodium chicken, turkey, or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons corn starch
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 pinch black pepper
Instructions
- Season the Turkey: In a small bowl, combine softened butter, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, seasoning salt, and black pepper. Rub this mixture all over the boneless turkey breast, ensuring it is evenly coated to infuse flavor throughout the meat.
- Place Turkey in Crockpot: Transfer the seasoned turkey breast into the crockpot, making sure it sits comfortably without crowding, allowing for even cooking.
- Cook the Turkey: Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook on low heat for 5 hours or until the internal temperature of the turkey reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring the meat is fully cooked and juicy.
- Make the Gravy: Carefully strain the cooking juices from the crockpot into a saucepan. In a separate bowl, whisk together the low sodium broth and corn starch until smooth, then gradually add this mixture to the pan with the turkey juices. Add dried parsley, dried thyme, and a pinch of black pepper. Cook over medium heat, whisking continuously until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
- Serve: Remove the turkey from the crockpot and let it rest for a few minutes to retain its juices. Slice the turkey breast and serve warm, accompanied by the homemade gravy.
Notes
- Ensure the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to guarantee safe consumption.
- For extra flavor, you can add aromatic vegetables like onions and carrots at the base of the crockpot before placing the turkey.
- If you prefer a thicker gravy, increase the corn starch by 1 tablespoon and adjust the broth accordingly.
- Leftover turkey and gravy can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
