Best Ever Turkey Breast
Juicy, tender turkey breast cooked slowly with flavorful celery and onion, perfect for family dinners or holiday meals with rich broth and savory taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Thaw the turkey breast in the refrigerator.
- Wash and dry the turkey breast well.
- Rub the outside of the turkey breast generously with salt and pepper.
- Sprinkle salt and pepper inside the cavity as well.
- Fill the cavity with chunks of celery and onion.
- Wrap the turkey breast tightly with aluminum foil.
- Place the wrapped turkey breast in a crock-pot.
- Add 1 cup of water to the crock-pot.
- Turn the crock-pot to high and cook for about one hour.
- Reduce the heat to low and cook all night until tender.
- Serve the turkey with the flavorful broth and enjoy a juicy, tender meal.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, consider marinating the turkey breast overnight with your favorite herbs and spices. If you prefer a twist, try adding garlic and herbs, similar to the Roast Turkey Breast With Garlic And Herbs recipe. You can also substitute the celery and onion with other aromatics like carrots or leeks for a different taste profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the turkey breast sliced, drizzled with the flavorful broth for added moisture. It pairs beautifully with sides like Red Rice Casserole or a fresh salad. For a complete meal, consider serving with mashed potatoes and green beans for a classic touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, place the turkey in a covered dish with a bit of broth or water to keep it moist, and warm it in the oven at 325°F until heated through. This will help maintain its juicy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Best Ever Turkey Breast contains roughly 59 calories, with 3g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 3g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a frozen turkey breast for this recipe?
Yes, you can use a frozen turkey breast, but make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking. This may take 24 hours for every 4-5 pounds of turkey, ensuring even cooking and safety.
What can I do if the turkey breast is dry after cooking?
If your turkey breast turns out dry, it’s likely overcooked. To prevent this in the future, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; it should read 165°F at the thickest part. You can also serve the turkey with the broth to add moisture.
Can I cook this turkey breast in the oven instead of a crock-pot?
Absolutely! If you prefer oven cooking, roast the turkey breast at 325°F covered with foil for about 2-3 hours, or until it reaches the same internal temperature. This method can yield a crispy skin while keeping the meat tender.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).