Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast

Published: January 27, 2026

by Amelia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless Preparation: Just four simple ingredients make this recipe quick and easy to prepare.
Flavorful & Juicy: The combination of cranberry sauce and orange juice infuses the turkey with incredible flavor and moisture.
Versatile for Occasions: Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any family dinner, this dish fits seamlessly into any meal plan.
Minimal Cleanup: Cooking in a crock pot means fewer dishes and easy cleanup—a real win for busy cooks!
Crowd-Pleasing: This recipe serves eight, making it ideal for gatherings where you want to impress without the stress.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your preparation and ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Slow cooker (6-quart recommended)
Mixing bowl
Medium saucepan
Whisk
Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Slow Cooker: The star of this recipe! It ensures even cooking while you enjoy your day.
Mixing Bowl: Perfect for combining ingredients without making a mess.
Whisk: Essential for mixing the cornstarch and water to achieve that perfect gravy consistency.

Ingredients

For this delicious Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast, you’ll need the following:

For the Turkey

1 (5-7 lbs) boneless turkey breast
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper

For the Sauce

1 can (14 oz) whole berry cranberry sauce
1 packet onion soup seasoning mix
1/2 cup orange juice

For Thickening

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 the turkey into your slow cooker. A 6-quart crock pot works well for this recipe.

Step 2: Season the Turkey

Sprinkle salt and pepper over the turkey. Rub these seasonings in gently to ensure even flavor throughout.

Step 3: Mix the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine the cranberry sauce, onion soup seasoning mix, and orange juice. Pour this mixture over the turkey in the slow cooker.

Step 4: Cook Properly

Cover your slow cooker and set it to LOW heat. Cook for about 5-7 hours until the internal temperature reaches at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit. My turkey was perfectly cooked after about 6 hours.

Step 5: Prepare Gravy

Once cooked, carefully remove the turkey breast from the crock pot and place it on a serving plate. Cover it with tin foil to keep warm. Skim off any fat from the liquid remaining in your slow cooker. Pour this liquid into a medium saucepan.

Step 6: Thicken Your Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together cornstarch and cold water until smooth. Bring the sauce from your slow cooker to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, add in your cornstarch mixture while whisking continuously until thickened—this should take about 1-2 minutes.

Finally, pour some of this delicious gravy over your turkey breast before serving. You can store any extra gravy in a jar to serve alongside each portion!

Enjoy your meal!

How to Serve Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast

Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast is not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving. You can pair it with various sides and garnishes that enhance its flavors and presentation.

With Traditional Sides

Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes complement the savory turkey and its rich gravy.
Green Bean Casserole – A classic dish that adds a crunchy texture and earthy flavor.
Stuffing – Flavorful stuffing fills your plate with warmth, making it a comforting meal.

In Sandwiches

Turkey Sandwiches – Pile slices of turkey on bread with cranberry sauce for a delightful twist on leftovers.
Sliders – Use small rolls to create bite-sized turkey sliders topped with gravy or cranberry sauce.

On Salads

Turkey Salad – Shred leftover turkey over mixed greens, drizzled with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing option.
Cranberry Turkey Bowl – Combine turkey, quinoa, and seasonal veggies in a bowl for a healthy meal.

How to Perfect Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast

Making the perfect Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast is simple if you follow these helpful tips.

Use a Meat Thermometer – Check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
Don’t Skip the Seasoning – Seasoning the turkey breast well enhances its flavor throughout cooking.
Let It Rest – After cooking, allow the turkey to rest before slicing. This helps retain moisture.
Adjust Cooking Time – Depending on your slow cooker model, be prepared to adjust cooking times for optimal results.

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast

Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast pairs wonderfully with many side dishes that round out your meal. Here are some top choices:

Roasted Vegetables – Toss seasonal vegetables in olive oil and roast until tender for a colorful addition.
Sweet Potato Mash – A sweet and creamy alternative to traditional mashed potatoes that balances the savory turkey.
Brussels Sprouts – Sautéed or roasted Brussels sprouts add a slight bitterness that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of cranberry sauce.
Cornbread – The slightly sweet flavor of cornbread makes it an excellent pairing with turkey and gravy.
Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw offers freshness and texture, balancing the richness of the meal.
Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice cooked with herbs brings a lightness that complements the hearty turkey dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking a Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the turkey breast properly can lead to bland flavors. Always season your turkey with salt and pepper before cooking for enhanced taste.
Using the wrong temperature: Cooking on high instead of low can dry out the turkey. Stick to low heat for a tender, juicy result that takes time to develop flavor.
Neglecting internal temperature checks: It’s crucial to check that the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Using a meat thermometer helps ensure safe and perfectly cooked turkey.
Forgetting to skim fat: Leaving the fat in the cooking liquid can make your sauce greasy. Skim off excess fat before making gravy for a smoother texture.
Not allowing resting time: Cutting into the turkey immediately after cooking can cause juices to escape. Let it rest covered with foil for about 10 minutes before slicing.
Overcomplicating ingredients: Using too many ingredients can overshadow the star of the dish. Stick with the simple list provided for a classic flavor profile.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover turkey in an airtight container.
Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast

Place cooled turkey in freezer-safe containers or bags.
Freeze for up to 2-3 months; label with date for reference.

Reheating Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast

Oven: Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Place turkey in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
Microwave: Slice turkey and place on a microwave-safe plate. Cover and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warm.
Stovetop: Heat slices in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to keep moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast.

Can I use frozen turkey breast for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen turkey breast, but thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking. This ensures even cooking throughout.

What is the best size for the turkey breast?

A boneless turkey breast weighing between 5-7 pounds works best for this recipe. It fits well in most crock pots and cooks evenly.

How do I customize my Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast?

You can add herbs like rosemary or thyme or switch out orange juice for apple juice for different flavor profiles. Experiment with spices that you enjoy!

Can I make gravy without cornstarch?

Yes, you can use other thickening agents like flour or arrowroot powder as alternatives if cornstarch is unavailable.

Is it possible to double this recipe?

While you can double the ingredients, ensure your crock pot has enough capacity. A larger slow cooker may be necessary to accommodate extra ingredients.

Final Thoughts

The Crock Pot Cranberry Turkey Breast is not only an easy dish but also incredibly versatile. Perfect for holidays or any family gathering, it allows room for customization based on your tastes. Try out different juices or herbs to make it uniquely yours!

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