easy 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.