Are you dreaming of a Thanksgiving feast without the all-day kitchen commitment? Then this Crock Pot Turkey and Dressing recipe is your answer! This easy recipe delivers all the comforting flavors of a traditional Thanksgiving dinner, but with significantly less fuss. Say goodbye to oven-bound cooking and hello to effortless homemade cooking. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed holiday celebration, proving that delicious dishes and healthy meals can coexist. Prepare to impress your family and friends with this amazing quick dinner idea!
Ingredients:
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For the Turkey:
- 1 (3-4 pound) bone-in turkey breast, thawed
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup apple cider
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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For the Dressing:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 6 cups cubed bread (day-old is best)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Preparing the Turkey:
- Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. This helps it brown better.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, apple cider, olive oil, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper.
- Place the turkey breast in your slow cooker. Pour the broth mixture over the turkey.
Making the Dressing:
- While the turkey cooks, prepare the dressing. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-5 minutes more.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked vegetables, bread cubes, chicken broth, parsley, sage, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
Cooking the Turkey and Dressing:
- Cook the turkey on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- During the last hour of cooking, add the dressing to the slow cooker, nestled around the turkey. Stir gently to combine. This allows the dressing to absorb some of the turkey juices.
- Once the turkey reaches 165°F, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the sliced turkey with the delicious, savory dressing. Consider adding cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, or green bean casserole for a complete Thanksgiving meal.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Add a few sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme to the turkey while it cooks.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing for a little kick.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the turkey breast with a large butternut squash, roasted until tender, and adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Use different bread: Experiment with cornbread or sourdough for a unique flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients and serving size. Nutritional information is best calculated using a nutrition calculator with your exact ingredients and measurements.
This Crock Pot Turkey and Dressing recipe is a true time-saver, allowing you to enjoy a delicious and impressive Thanksgiving meal without spending all day in the kitchen. It’s a perfect example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor and convenience. Enjoy!