Are you tired of complicated dinners that take hours to prepare? Do you crave healthy, delicious meals without sacrificing flavor? Then look no further! This crock pot turkey tenderloin recipe is your answer. It’s unbelievably easy, incredibly healthy, and delivers a juicy, flavorful turkey every single time. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is a staple in our house, and soon, it will be in yours too! This is one of those quick dinner ideas that's both impressive and effortless.
Ingredients:
- 1 (1-1.5 lb) turkey tenderloin, trimmed of silver skin
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup dry white wine (optional, can substitute with more broth)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
Instructions:
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Prep the Turkey: Pat the turkey tenderloin dry with paper towels. This helps it brown nicely and ensures a crispy exterior.
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Season Generously: In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Rub this mixture all over the turkey tenderloin, ensuring it's evenly coated.
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Sear (Optional but Recommended): Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the turkey tenderloin for 2-3 minutes per side to create a beautiful crust. This step isn't mandatory, but it adds a lovely depth of flavor.
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Slow Cooker Magic: Place the seared (or unseared) turkey tenderloin in your slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth and white wine (if using). Dollop the Dijon mustard over the top.
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Cook to Perfection: Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked through.
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Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the turkey tenderloin from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful turkey. Serve with your favorite sides – mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad are all excellent choices.
Cooking Tips for the Best Crock Pot Turkey Tenderloin:
- Don't overcrowd the slow cooker: Ensure there's enough space around the turkey tenderloin for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the most accurate way to ensure your turkey is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile.
- Make it a complete meal: Add chopped vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or onions to the slow cooker along with the turkey for a one-pot wonder.
Variations:
- Herb-Crusted Turkey Tenderloin: Add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage to the spice rub.
- Cranberry-Mustard Glaze: Stir in ½ cup of cranberry sauce during the last hour of cooking for a sweet and tangy twist.
- Garlic and Herb Turkey: Increase the garlic powder and add 1 tablespoon of dried Italian herbs to the spice rub.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 5-10g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 2-5g
This crock pot turkey tenderloin recipe is a perfect example of easy recipes that are both delicious and healthy. It's a fantastic option for homemade cooking, allowing you to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal without the fuss. Enjoy this simple yet satisfying dish!