Description
Mouthwatering slow cooker crockpot turkey blends rich Mediterranean herbs with tender, juicy meat for a delightful family dinner. Savory spices and easy preparation make this recipe a perfect weeknight meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 1 (10 to 12 lb / 4.5 to 5.4 kg) whole turkey, thawed if frozen
Herbs and Seasonings:
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
Aromatics and Liquid:
- ¼ cup (60 ml) olive oil or melted butter
- 1 onion, quartered
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, smashed
- 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth
Instructions
- Thoroughly inspect the turkey, extracting neck and internal organs. Use paper towels to meticulously dry the entire surface, ensuring maximum seasoning adherence.
- Craft a robust spice blend combining salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, rosemary, and sage. Massage olive oil or butter generously across the turkey’s exterior and beneath the skin, creating an even coating of the aromatic herb mixture.
- Construct a flavorful foundation in the slow cooker by strategically arranging chopped onions, celery stalks, carrot pieces, and minced garlic. Pour chicken broth to create a moist cooking environment.
- Carefully position the turkey breast-side up within the slow cooker, potentially adjusting positioning or trimming extremities to ensure a snug fit.
- Secure the lid and allow the turkey to gently roast on low temperature for 6-8 hours. Confirm doneness by verifying the internal thigh temperature reaches 165°F using a meat thermometer.
- For enhanced visual appeal and textural contrast, transfer the cooked turkey to a baking sheet. Execute a brief broiling process, monitoring closely to achieve a golden, crisp exterior without burning.
- Allow the turkey to rest undisturbed for 15-20 minutes, permitting juices to redistribute throughout the meat. Proceed with precise carving techniques for optimal presentation and moisture retention.
Notes
- Moisture Mastery: Pat the turkey completely dry before seasoning to ensure crispy, golden skin and prevent steaming in the slow cooker.
- Seasoning Hack: Gently separate the skin from the meat and rub seasonings underneath for deeper flavor penetration and more juicy meat.
- Space Optimization: If your turkey is too large, carefully trim the legs or wings to fit comfortably in the slow cooker without forcing or damaging the bird.
- Skin Crispiness Trick: The optional broiling step transforms the soft slow-cooked skin into a crunchy, appetizing golden exterior that mimics traditional roasted turkey.
- Broth Boost: Use homemade chicken broth for richer flavor, or add white wine for an extra layer of complexity in the cooking liquid.
- Low and Slow Magic: Cooking on LOW setting ensures tender, fall-apart meat that doesn’t dry out, making it perfect for meal prep and busy days.
- Thermometer Precision: Always use a meat thermometer to guarantee the turkey reaches safe internal temperature of 165F, preventing any foodborne illness risks.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 hours
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 375
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 22 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 29 g
- Cholesterol: 130 mg