If you’re looking for a delicious and easy way to cook a Butterball turkey breast, using a crock pot is a perfect option. Crock pots, also known as slow cookers, are a convenient and efficient way to prepare a moist and tender turkey breast. This method allows the turkey to cook slowly over several hours, resulting in a flavorful and succulent main course. Whether you’re cooking for a holiday feast or simply want a tasty meal, learning how to cook a Butterball turkey breast in a crock pot will not disappoint.

Why Crock Pot Cooking?

Using a crock pot to cook a Butterball turkey breast offers numerous advantages. First and foremost, it requires minimal effort and supervision. All you need to do is prepare the turkey breast, set the crock pot to the desired cooking time, and let it do the work. This leaves you with plenty of time to attend to other tasks or simply relax. Additionally, slow cooking allows the turkey breast to absorb and lock in flavors, resulting in a moist and tender meat. The even heat distribution in the crock pot ensures that each bite is juicy and delicious.

Ingredients and Preparation

To cook a Butterball turkey breast in a crock pot, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 1 Butterball boneless turkey breast (thawed)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried sage
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 cup chicken broth

To prepare the turkey breast, start by seasoning it with salt, pepper, sage, thyme, and garlic powder. Massage the seasonings into the turkey, so it’s evenly coated. Next, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat and brown all sides of the turkey breast. This step helps to seal in the flavors and juices.

With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy a delicious Butterball turkey breast cooked to perfection in your crock pot. Follow this easy and foolproof method, and you’ll have a crowd-pleasing main course that’s tender, juicy, and bursting with flavors.

How to Prepare Butterball Turkey Breast

Butterball turkey breast is a delicious and convenient option for a Thanksgiving or holiday meal. With its tender meat and rich flavor, it is sure to be a hit with your guests. Here are a few easy steps to help you prepare your Butterball turkey breast.

Step 1: Thaw the Turkey Breast

Before cooking your Butterball turkey breast, make sure it is completely thawed. You can thaw it in the refrigerator for 24 hours per 4 pounds of turkey. Be sure to remove the plastic packaging before thawing.

Step 2: Season the Turkey Breast

Once the turkey breast is completely thawed, it’s time to season it. You can choose to use a pre-made seasoning blend or create your own. Some popular options include garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning mixture all over the turkey breast, making sure to cover all sides.

Step 3: Prepare the Crock Pot

Next, prepare your crock pot by lightly greasing the bottom. This will help prevent the turkey breast from sticking. You can use cooking spray or a small amount of oil for this step. Place the turkey breast in the crock pot, making sure it fits comfortably.

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Step 4: Cook the Turkey Breast

Now it’s time to cook your Butterball turkey breast. Set your crock pot to low heat and cook for approximately 6-8 hours. The cooking time may vary depending on the size of your turkey breast and the accuracy of your crock pot’s temperature settings. It’s important to cook the turkey breast until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.

Step 5: Let it Rest

Once the turkey breast is cooked to perfection, remove it from the crock pot and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and make the meat even juicier and more flavorful.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Now that your Butterball turkey breast is ready, it’s time to serve and enjoy! Slice the cooked turkey breast and arrange it on a serving platter. Serve it with your favorite side dishes and enjoy a delicious meal with your loved ones.

By following these simple steps, you can easily prepare a mouthwatering Butterball turkey breast in your crock pot. Enjoy!

Choosing the Right Ingredients

When it comes to cooking butterball turkey breast in a crock pot, it’s important to choose the right ingredients to ensure a delicious and flavorful result.

Here are some key ingredients you’ll need:

  • Butterball turkey breast: Make sure to select a high-quality turkey breast that is suitable for slow cooking.
  • Seasonings: Use a combination of herbs and spices to add flavor to your turkey breast. Common options include salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
  • Broth: Adding broth to the crock pot will help keep the turkey breast moist and tender. Chicken or turkey broth both work well.
  • Vegetables: Consider including vegetables such as onions, carrots, and celery, as they will add extra flavor to the dish.
  • Optional ingredients: You can also experiment by adding additional ingredients such as dried fruits, nuts, or herbs to enhance the taste of the turkey breast.

Before starting the cooking process, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients on hand. This will ensure that you can prepare the dish without any interruptions.

Prepping the Turkey Breast

Before cooking your Butterball turkey breast in the crock pot, it’s important to properly prepare it to enhance the flavors and ensure it cooks evenly. Follow these steps to properly prep your turkey breast:

Step 1:

Thaw the turkey breast completely in the refrigerator. This will usually take around 24 hours for every 4 pounds of turkey. Make sure to remove any packaging and place the turkey breast in a leak-proof bag or container to prevent cross-contamination.

Step 2:

After thawing, pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help the seasonings stick to the turkey and promote browning during cooking.

Step 3:

Season the turkey breast to your liking. You can use a variety of seasonings such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or any other herbs and spices you prefer. Rub the seasonings all over the turkey breast, making sure to get into all the nooks and crannies.

Step 4:

Place the seasoned turkey breast in the crock pot, making sure it fits comfortably without overcrowding. If necessary, you can trim any excess skin or trimmings from the turkey breast to ensure it fits properly.

Step 5:

Optional: Add any vegetables or aromatics you desire to the crock pot, such as onions, carrots, celery, or herbs like rosemary or thyme. These will add flavor to the turkey and create a delicious broth.
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Seasoning and marinating the Turkey Breast

Before cooking a butterball turkey breast in a crock pot, it is important to season and marinate it properly to enhance its flavor and tenderness. Follow these steps to prepare the turkey breast:

Step 1: Rinse the turkey breast

Start by rinsing the butterball turkey breast under cold running water to remove any excess liquid or packaging materials. Pat it dry using paper towels.

Step 2: Season the turkey breast

Next, season the turkey breast to your taste using a mixture of herbs, spices, and salt. You can use a pre-made seasoning blend or create your own by combining ingredients like dried thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Tip: Rub the seasoning mixture all over the turkey breast, including under the skin and inside the cavity, to ensure even distribution of flavors.

Step 3: Marinate the turkey breast (optional)

For added flavor, consider marinating the turkey breast for a few hours or overnight. You can use a marinade of your choice, such as a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and your preferred herbs and spices. Place the seasoned turkey breast in a resealable plastic bag or a covered container and pour in the marinade. Refrigerate for the desired amount of time, turning the turkey breast occasionally.

Note: While marinating is optional, it can help tenderize and infuse the turkey breast with additional flavors.

By properly seasoning and marinating the butterball turkey breast, you will ensure a delicious and flavorful result when cooking it in a crock pot.

Cooking Butterball Turkey Breast in a Crock Pot

Butterball turkey breast can be easily cooked in a crock pot, resulting in a tender and juicy meat that is perfect for any occasion. Using a crock pot allows you to set it and forget it, so you can go about your day without worrying about constantly monitoring the cooking process. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to cook a Butterball turkey breast in a crock pot.

Preparation

Start by thawing the Butterball turkey breast completely according to the package instructions. This is an important step to ensure even cooking. Once thawed, pat the turkey breast dry using paper towels.

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In a small bowl, mix together your favorite blend of spices and herbs. This can include salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and any other seasonings you prefer. Rub the spice mixture all over the turkey breast, making sure to evenly coat it.

Cooking

Place the seasoned Butterball turkey breast in the crock pot, placing it breast side up. Add about 1 cup of chicken or turkey broth to the crock pot to keep the meat moist during cooking.

Cover the crock pot with its lid and set it to cook on low heat for 6-8 hours. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the size of the turkey breast. To ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature, use a meat thermometer to check that it has reached 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part.

Once the turkey breast is fully cooked, carefully remove it from the crock pot and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps to retain the juices and keep the meat tender.

Serving

Slice the Butterball turkey breast and serve it with your favorite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or cranberry sauce. The flavorful and moist meat will be a hit at any dinner table.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They are great for making sandwiches or adding to salads for quick and easy meals.

Enjoy your deliciously cooked Butterball turkey breast straight from the crock pot!

Q&A

Can I use a frozen butterball turkey breast in a crock pot?

Yes, you can use a frozen butterball turkey breast in a crock pot. However, you will need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. It is recommended to cook a frozen turkey breast on low heat for 8-10 hours or on high heat for 4-6 hours. Make sure to check the internal temperature of the turkey with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving.

Can I cook a butterball turkey breast in a crock pot without adding any liquid?

Yes, you can cook a butterball turkey breast in a crock pot without adding any liquid. The turkey breast will release its own juices as it cooks, providing moisture and flavor. However, adding some liquid like chicken broth or water can help to keep the turkey breast moist during the cooking process. If you prefer not to add any liquid, make sure to check the turkey periodically to ensure it doesn’t dry out. You can also baste the turkey breast with its own juices or melted butter to add extra moisture.

How long does it take to cook butterball turkey breast in a crock pot?

Cooking a Butterball turkey breast in a crock pot typically takes about 6 to 8 hours on low heat or 4 to 5 hours on high heat.