Easy family recipes crock pot turkey tenderloin
It was one of *those* Tuesdays. The kind where the school pick-up line felt endless, soccer practice ran late, and my youngest, Leo, somehow managed to track mud through the entire house after a valiant attempt to “help” in the garden. My mind, usually a whirlwind of meal planning and to-do lists, was drawing a blank for dinner.
The clock was ticking, and hungry bellies were imminent. That’s when I remembered the turkey tenderloin nestled in the fridge, and a wave of relief washed over me. I quickly tossed it into the slow cooker with a few pantry staples, and just like that, the aroma of a delicious, home-cooked meal began to fill our kitchen.
No fuss, no frantic chopping, just a simple, nourishing dinner bubbling away, ready to greet us after the evening’s chaos subsided. That night, around our kitchen table, as we savored every tender bite, I truly understood the magic of *easy family recipes crock pot turkey tenderloin*.
This dish isn’t just food; it’s a helping hand on busy days, a warm hug in a bowl, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that makes mealtime stress-free and full of love. It’s become a cornerstone of our family dinners, ensuring we get a wholesome, delicious meal even when life gets a little wild.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Family Crock Pot Turkey Tenderloin Recipe
You absolutely will adore this fuss-free, delicious slow cooker turkey tenderloin recipe for so many reasons. First, it truly embraces simplicity. As a busy mom, I understand the need for meals that practically cook themselves.
This recipe delivers on that promise, freeing up your valuable time while still providing a homemade, nourishing dinner. You simply set it and forget it, returning to a perfectly cooked, incredibly tender turkey. Furthermore, this dish is a health hero.
Turkey tenderloin offers a lean source of protein, making it an excellent choice for a wholesome meal. You get all the flavor without any unnecessary guilt.
Then there’s the incredible tenderness. Slow cooking transforms turkey tenderloin, a cut that can sometimes dry out, into a remarkably juicy and succulent experience. Every bite melts in your mouth, infused with savory seasonings.
This turkey tenderloin recipe also proves incredibly versatile. Pair it with almost any side dish, from mashed potatoes to roasted vegetables, for a complete and satisfying meal. Moreover, it’s a fantastic meal prep option.
Cook a large batch and enjoy the leftovers for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week. Finally, my kids absolutely devour this slow cooker turkey tenderloin, and that alone makes it a winner in my book! This easy family crock pot turkey tenderloin recipe truly simplifies dinner without sacrificing taste or nutrition.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this easy family crock pot turkey tenderloin recipe is incredibly straightforward. Most items are likely already in your pantry or easily found at any grocery store. Always start with a good quality turkey tenderloin for the best results.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Turkey Tenderloin | 1.5 – 2 pounds | Typically comes in a pack of two smaller tenderloins. |
| Chicken Broth (low sodium) | 1 cup | Or vegetable broth for a different flavor profile. |
| Onion | 1 medium | Roughly chopped or sliced. |
| Garlic | 3-4 cloves | Minced for maximum flavor. |
| Dried Thyme | 1 teaspoon | Or fresh thyme, about 1 tablespoon. |
| Dried Rosemary | 1 teaspoon | Or fresh rosemary, about 1 tablespoon. |
| Paprika | 1 teaspoon | Smoked paprika adds depth. |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon | Adjust to taste. |
| Black Pepper | 1/4 teaspoon | Freshly ground is always best. |
| Olive Oil | 1 tablespoon | For searing, optional but recommended. |
| Cornstarch Slurry (optional) | 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons cold water | For thickening the sauce at the end. |
Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the robust flavor profile of this slow cooker turkey tenderloin. The broth keeps the turkey moist, while the herbs and aromatics infuse every fiber with deliciousness. You can easily adjust the seasonings to suit your family’s preferences.
Substitutions & Variations
This easy family crock pot turkey tenderloin recipe is incredibly flexible, allowing you to adapt it to your pantry, preferences, or what’s on sale! Feel empowered to make it your own.
* Vegetable Boost: Elevate the nutritional content and flavor by adding more vegetables. Think carrots, celery, bell peppers, or even sliced mushrooms. Add harder vegetables like carrots and potatoes at the beginning of the cooking time, while softer ones like bell peppers or zucchini can go in during the last hour.
* Broth Variations: While chicken broth works beautifully, feel free to use vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly base (just ensure the turkey is still used!) or even turkey broth if you have it on hand. For a richer flavor, a dry white wine can replace half of the broth.
* Herb Swap: Don’t limit yourself to thyme and rosemary.
Oregano, sage, or an Italian seasoning blend also complement turkey wonderfully. If using fresh herbs, double the quantity of dried herbs.
* Spice It Up: For a bit of a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper.
A touch of cumin can also add an unexpected but delicious warmth.
* Creamy Finish: For an extra luxurious sauce, stir in half a cup of heavy cream or cream cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This transforms the savory juices into a rich, decadent gravy.
* Citrus Brightness: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a few lemon slices added during the last hour of cooking can brighten the entire dish.
* Different Cuts: While this recipe specifically calls for tenderloin, you can adapt it for boneless, skinless turkey breasts. Just be mindful of cooking times, as a whole breast might require a bit longer to cook through.
Always use a meat thermometer.
* Flavor Boosters: A tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, a teaspoon of Dijon mustard, or a splash of balsamic vinegar can add layers of complexity to the sauce. Experiment to find your family’s favorite combination!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making this easy family crock pot turkey tenderloin couldn’t be simpler. Follow these steps for a perfectly cooked, flavorful meal every time.
1. Prep the Turkey: First, remove your turkey tenderloin from its packaging. Pat it thoroughly dry with paper towels.
This step is crucial for achieving a nice sear if you choose to do so. Season the turkey generously on all sides with salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and rosemary. Really rub those seasonings in!
2. Sear (Optional but Recommended): In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the seasoned turkey tenderloin.
Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until a golden-brown crust forms. This step adds incredible depth of flavor and helps seal in juices. Transfer the seared turkey tenderloin to your slow cooker.
3. Add Aromatics: Next, add the chopped onion and minced garlic around the turkey in the slow cooker. These aromatics will infuse the entire dish with a wonderful fragrance and taste.
4. Pour in Liquid: Now, pour the chicken broth over the turkey and vegetables. Ensure the liquid covers at least the bottom portion of the turkey.
5. Cook: Cover your slow cooker with the lid. Cook on LOW for 3-4 hours or on HIGH for 2-3 hours.
Cooking times can vary based on your specific slow cooker and the thickness of your turkey tenderloin. The turkey is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6.
Rest and Thicken (Optional): Once cooked, carefully remove the turkey tenderloin from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender and moist final product.
If you desire a thicker sauce, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water to create a slurry. Pour the slurry into the slow cooker, stirring constantly, and cook on HIGH for another 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce thickens to your liking.
7.
Serve: Finally, slice the rested turkey tenderloin against the grain into thick medallions. Spoon the delicious sauce and tender vegetables over the sliced turkey. Serve immediately and enjoy your comforting, homemade meal!
Pro Tips for Success
Unlock the full potential of this easy family crock pot turkey tenderloin with these tried-and-true tips. They guarantee a succulent, flavor-packed dish every time.
* Don’t Skip the Searing: While optional, searing the turkey tenderloin before slow cooking makes a huge difference. This quick step creates a beautiful caramelized crust, adding layers of rich, savory flavor that you simply can’t achieve with just slow cooking. Use a hot skillet and don’t overcrowd it.
* Pat Dry for Flavor: Always pat the turkey tenderloin thoroughly dry with paper towels before seasoning and searing. Excess moisture prevents browning, and a dry surface allows seasonings to adhere better, leading to a more flavorful crust.
* Season Generously: Turkey, especially lean tenderloin, loves bold flavors.
Don’t be shy with your salt, pepper, and herbs. Seasoning generously on all sides ensures every bite is flavorful. Remember, slow cooking can sometimes mellow flavors, so a good initial seasoning is key.
* Use a Meat Thermometer: This is your best friend for perfectly cooked turkey. Insert an instant-read meat thermometer into the thickest part of the tenderloin. The turkey is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Overcooked turkey can become dry, so pull it out as soon as it hits the target temperature.
* Resist Lifting the Lid: Every time you lift the slow cooker lid, you release accumulated heat, adding approximately 15-20 minutes to your cooking time. Trust the process and let your slow cooker do its job.
* Rest the Turkey: After cooking, always remove the turkey from the slow cooker and let it rest, loosely tented with foil, for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a much juicier and more tender final product.
* Deglaze the Searing Pan: If you seared your turkey, add a splash of chicken broth or even a bit of water to the hot skillet after removing the turkey.
Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom – this is called deglazing. Pour this flavorful liquid into your slow cooker along with the other ingredients; it’s pure concentrated flavor!
* Adjust Liquid Levels: Ensure there’s enough liquid to cover at least the bottom third of the turkey, but don’t submerge it completely unless the recipe specifically calls for it. Too much liquid can make the turkey simmer rather than braise, affecting texture.
Storage & Reheating Tips
This easy family crock pot turkey tenderloin makes fantastic leftovers, perfect for quick lunches or another simple dinner. Proper storage ensures both safety and deliciousness.
* Cool Promptly: First, allow any leftover turkey and sauce to cool down completely to room temperature within two hours of cooking. Do not leave it out longer than this for food safety reasons.
* Airtight Container: Transfer the cooled turkey and sauce to an airtight container.
Make sure it’s sealed well to prevent air exposure, which can dry out the turkey and lead to spoilage.
* Refrigeration: Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Labeling the container with the date helps you keep track.
* Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked turkey and sauce. Place it in a freezer-safe airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bags. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Thaw frozen turkey overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
* Reheating in the Microwave: For individual portions, place the turkey and a generous spoonful of sauce in a microwave-safe dish. Cover loosely and heat on medium power, stirring occasionally, until thoroughly hot.
Adding a splash of extra broth or water can help keep it moist.
* Reheating on the Stovetop: For larger quantities, gently reheat the turkey and sauce in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Keep the pan covered to retain moisture.
Stir frequently until heated through. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a little extra broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
* Reheating in the Oven: If reheating a whole tenderloin or a large portion, place it in an oven-safe dish with some of the sauce.
Cover it tightly with foil to prevent drying. Reheat in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 15-25 minutes, or until heated completely through.
What to Serve With This Recipe
The beauty of this easy family crock pot turkey tenderloin is its versatility. It pairs wonderfully with a wide array of side dishes, making meal planning effortless.
* Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A classic for a reason! The tender turkey and savory sauce are simply heavenly spooned over a mound of fluffy mashed potatoes.
* Roasted Root Vegetables: Think carrots, parsnips, and potatoes, roasted until tender and caramelized.
Their natural sweetness provides a lovely contrast to the savory turkey.
* Steamed Green Beans: For a simple, healthy green side, serve perfectly steamed green beans or asparagus. A sprinkle of lemon zest and a pat of butter elevate them.
* Fluffy Rice: White rice, brown rice, or even quinoa provides a neutral base to soak up all that delicious gravy.
* Crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Roasting Brussels sprouts brings out their nutty flavor and gives them a wonderful crisp texture, making them a delicious accompaniment.
* Simple Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterpoint, adding brightness and a textural crunch.
* Egg Noodles: Wide egg noodles cooked al dente are another excellent option for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
* Sweet Potato Mash: For a touch of sweetness and extra nutrition, mashed sweet potatoes are a fantastic choice.
* Crusty Bread: Don’t forget a good crusty baguette or dinner rolls. They’re perfect for mopping up every last drop of the incredible sauce!
FAQs
You’ve got questions about this easy family crock pot turkey tenderloin, and I’ve got answers! Here are some common queries.
Can I put raw turkey tenderloin in a slow cooker without searing?
Absolutely, you can! While searing the turkey tenderloin beforehand enhances the flavor and creates a beautiful crust, it is completely optional. If you’re short on time or prefer a truly hands-off approach, simply place the raw, seasoned turkey tenderloin directly into the slow cooker with the other ingredients. It will still cook up wonderfully tender and delicious.
How long does turkey tenderloin take to cook in a crock pot?
Typically, a 1.5 to 2-pound turkey tenderloin cooks in a crock pot on LOW for about 3-4 hours or on HIGH for 2-3 hours. However, cooking times can vary based on the specific slow cooker model, the thickness of the tenderloin, and how cold the meat is when it goes into the pot. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) at its thickest part for food safety.
Can I use frozen turkey tenderloin in this easy family recipes crock pot turkey tenderloin?
For food safety reasons, it is generally not recommended to put frozen turkey tenderloin directly into a slow cooker. The slow cooker heats food slowly, and frozen meat can spend too much time in the “danger zone” (between 40°F and 140°F or 4°C and 60°C), allowing harmful bacteria to multiply. Always thaw your turkey tenderloin completely in the refrigerator before placing it in the slow cooker.
How can I prevent my slow cooker turkey tenderloin from drying out?
Several factors contribute to a moist slow cooker turkey tenderloin. First, do not overcook it; use a meat thermometer and remove it as soon as it reaches 165°F (74°C). Second, ensure you have sufficient liquid in the slow cooker (like chicken broth) to create a moist cooking environment.
Third, letting the Turkey rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat succulent. Finally, slicing the turkey against the grain also helps maintain its tenderness.
Printeasy family recipes crock pot turkey tenderloin
This easy family crock pot turkey tenderloin recipe is perfect for busy evenings, offering a fuss-free and delicious homemade meal. It features tender, slow-cooked turkey tenderloin infused with savory herbs and aromatics, making it a healthy, lean protein option that's versatile for various side dishes and great for meal prep.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
1.5 – 2 pounds Turkey Tenderloi
1 cup Chicken Broth
1 medium Onio
3-4 cloves Garlic
1 teaspoon Dried Thyme
1 teaspoon Dried Rosemary
1 teaspoon Paprika
1/2 teaspoon Salt
1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper
1 tablespoon Olive Oil
1 tablespoon Cornstarch
2 tablespoons Cold Water
Instructions
- Prep the Turkey: Remove turkey tenderloin from its packaging and pat thoroughly dry with paper towels. Season generously on all sides with salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and rosemary, rubbing the seasonings i
- Sear (Optional but Recommended): In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned turkey tenderloin and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until a golden-brown crust forms. Transfer the seared turkey tenderloin to your slow cooker
- Add Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic around the turkey in the slow cooker
- Pour in Liquid: Pour the chicken broth over the turkey and vegetables, ensuring the liquid covers at least the bottom portion of the turkey
- Cook: Cover your slow cooker with the lid. Cook on LOW for 3-4 hours or on HIGH for 2-3 hours. The turkey is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C)
- Rest and Thicken (Optional): Once cooked, carefully remove the turkey tenderloin from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. If you desire a thicker sauce, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water to create a slurry. Pour the slurry into the slow cooker, stirring constantly, and cook on HIGH for another 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce thickens to your liking
- Serve: Slice the rested turkey tenderloin against the grain into thick medallions. Spoon the delicious sauce and tender vegetables over the sliced turkey. Serve immediately
Notes
Searing the turkey tenderloin beforehand, while optional, significantly enhances flavor and creates a beautiful crust. Remember to pat the turkey dry for better browning.
Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to prevent overcooking and ensure food safety.
After cooking, rest the turkey for 5-10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring a more tender and moist result.
For food safety, never put frozen turkey tenderloin directly into a slow cooker; always thaw completely in the refrigerator first.
Resist lifting the slow cooker lid during cooking as it releases heat and extends cooking time.
