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Melt-in-Your-Mouth Butterball Turkey Breast Crock Pot Roast

There’s something incredibly comforting about the aroma of a turkey roasting in the kitchen. As the hours pass, the anticipation grows, creating a nostalgic atmosphere reminiscent of family gatherings and holiday feasts. With the Melt-in-Your-Mouth Butterball Turkey Breast Crock Pot Roast, you can capture that warmth and flavor any day of the week. This recipe promises to deliver tender, juicy turkey wrapped in heartfelt memories and deliciousness.

Imagine stepping into your home after a long day and being greeted by the comforting scent of turkey infused with herbs and spices. This recipe allows you to create that idyllic experience effortlessly. The simple preparation and slow cooking process ensure a fail-proof, succulent result every time.

Why Make This Recipe

Effortless Prep: Just a few minutes of active cooking is needed before your Crock Pot takes over.
Flavorful and Moist: The combination of herb butter and vegetables infuses the turkey with unparalleled taste and moisture.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just cooking for yourself, this turkey recipe shines at any dinner table.

How to Make Melt-in-Your-Mouth Butterball Turkey Breast Crock Pot Roast

The joy of cooking this standout turkey breast roast lies not just in the delightful end product but also in how easy it is to create. With just a few ingredients and your trusty Crock Pot, you’re about to embark on a culinary adventure. Follow this step-by-step guide for guaranteed success.

Ingredients

1 Butterball turkey breast roast (3–9 lbs) thawed
1 tablespoon olive oil or nonstick spray
Salt, pepper, herbs, and spices (thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, paprika)
½ cup broth, water, or non-alcoholic white wine alternative

Directions

Prepare the Turkey
Unwrap your Butterball Turkey Breast Roast and pat it thoroughly dry with paper towels to help seasoning adhere and improve texture. Place the turkey breast on a clean plate or cutting board.
Create Herb Butter Mixture
In a small bowl, combine softened unsalted butter with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried crushed rosemary, black pepper, and salt. Mix these ingredients thoroughly to create a fragrant, well-blended herb butter.
Season and Spread
Using your hands or a spatula, generously spread the herb butter mixture all over the entire surface of the turkey breast roast. This butter helps keep the turkey incredibly moist and tender during cooking.
Prepare Aromatics for Crock Pot
Spread roughly chopped yellow onion, celery, carrots, and minced garlic evenly across the bottom of your slow cooker. These vegetables form a flavorful bed for the turkey.
Add Liquids
Pour 2 cups of chicken broth over the vegetables. If using a non-alcoholic white wine alternative, add that in now, or simply add an additional ½ cup of chicken broth or water.
Nestle the Turkey
Carefully place the butter-rubbed Butterball Turkey Breast Roast directly on top of the bed of vegetables in the slow cooker, ensuring it’s as centered as possible.
Slow Cook
Secure the lid tightly. Set your crock pot to LOW for 4-6 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours. The exact time varies with turkey size (e.g., 3-pound for 4 hours on LOW, 5-pound for 6 hours on LOW). For best results, use the LOW setting.
Check for Doneness
After the minimum cooking time, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the turkey breast, avoiding bone. The internal temperature should read 165°F. If not, continue cooking and recheck every 30 minutes.
Rest the Turkey
Once the turkey reaches the safe internal temperature, carefully remove it to a clean cutting board. Tent loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for at least 15-20 minutes. This crucial step allows juices to redistribute, resulting in a much juicier and more tender turkey.
Strain the Drippings for Gravy
While the turkey rests, carefully pour all the liquid and cooked vegetables from the slow cooker through a fine-mesh sieve into a medium saucepan. Press down on the solids to extract as much flavorful liquid as possible, then discard the strained vegetables.
Skim the Fat (Optional)
If there’s a significant amount of fat floating on top of your strained liquid, skim some of it off using a spoon or fat separator for a luscious gravy.
Simmer the Drippings
Place the saucepan with the strained turkey drippings over medium heat and bring it to a gentle simmer.
Prepare the Cornstarch Slurry
In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of cornstarch and ¼ cup of cold water until no lumps remain. Cold water is essential to prevent lumps.
Thicken the Gravy
Slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the simmering turkey drippings, whisking constantly. Continue to whisk gently as the gravy simmers for a couple of minutes until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Adjust thickness as needed.
Taste and Adjust Gravy Seasoning
Taste your gravy and adjust the seasoning with a pinch more salt, black pepper, or garlic powder if desired, ensuring a perfect flavor balance.
Carve and Serve Your Delicious Turkey
Once rested, slice your Butterball Turkey Breast Roast against the grain into your desired thickness. Arrange the sliced turkey on a platter and ladle your freshly made, rich gravy generously over it, or serve on the side. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or chives for added color and aroma. Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or your favorite stuffing.

Storage Tips for Melt-in-Your-Mouth Butterball Turkey Breast Crock Pot Roast

To keep your turkey breast fresh for later meals, follow these guidelines:

Refrigerate: Store leftover turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days at a temperature of 40°F or below.
Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the leftover turkey. Properly stored, it will retain its quality for up to 2 months. Ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Gravy Storage: You can also refrigerate or freeze the gravy separately using the same timelines.

Best Ways to Serve Melt-in-Your-Mouth Butterball Turkey Breast Crock Pot Roast

Pair your melt-in-your-mouth turkey with an array of delicious sides. Here are some serving suggestions:

Classic Sides: Serve with creamy mashed potatoes and green bean casserole for a traditional feel.
Fresh Vegetables: Roasted Brussels sprouts or steamed asparagus can boost the meal’s freshness.
Stuffing Pairing: A savory stuffing, maybe with cranberries or sausage, rounds out the flavors beautifully.
Sandwiches: Use leftover turkey for sandwiches, layering with cranberry sauce and stuffing on crusty bread.

Tips to Make Melt-in-Your-Mouth Butterball Turkey Breast Crock Pot Roast

Getting the most out of this recipe involves a few strategic choices. Here are some tips:

Go Low and Slow: Always use the LOW setting for cooking; it yields more tender meat.
Butter is Best: Don’t skimp on the herb butter. It’s essential for moisture and flavor.
Rest is Key: Patience is a virtue; let your turkey rest before carving to maintain juiciness.

Variations or Substitutions

Feel free to tailor this recipe to your taste. Here are some ideas:

Different Herbs: If you prefer a sweeter flavor profile, consider adding sage or thyme instead of rosemary.
Wine Replacement: In place of the non-alcoholic wine, a splash of apple cider can bring an exciting twist to the braising liquid.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes, you can prepare the turkey for a couple of days in advance. Just make sure to store any prepped ingredients properly in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of turkey breasts?
A: Certainly! Chicken thighs can be a great substitute and may cook faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: How do I make it spicier?
A: You can add red pepper flakes, cayenne, or even a splash of hot sauce to the herb butter mixture for some heat.

Q: Is it necessary to add broth or can I skip it?
A: The broth adds moisture and flavor to both the turkey and gravy. It’s best not to skip this component.

Q: How do I store leftover turkey and gravy?

Leftover turkey can be refrigerated for 3-4 days and frozen for up to 2 months.
The gravy can also be stored the same way.

Nutritional Info (Per Serving)

Calories: 210
Protein: 31g
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 2g
Fiber: 0g
Sodium: 550mg

What to Serve With

The culinary magic of the Melt-in-Your-Mouth Butterball Turkey Breast Crock Pot Roast flourishes in combination with various sides. Some ideal complements include:

Sweet Potato Mash: The sweetness pairs wonderfully with savory turkey.
Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled vegetables add color and balance to your plate.
Cranberry Sauce: A dollop of cranberry sauce provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not Drying the Turkey: Skipping the drying step can lead to bland seasoning.
Overcooking: Monitor the internal temperature closely; aim for exactly 165°F to maintain juiciness.
Neglecting Rest Time: Cutting too soon can lead to dry meat.

In summary, the Melt-in-Your-Mouth Butterball Turkey Breast Crock Pot Roast is a delightful option for delicious family meals without the fuss. The slow cooker does all the work while you prepare your favorite sides or catch up on your day. Flavors meld beautifully to provide a meal that is not only delectable but also creates cherished memories around your dinner table. Now, gather your ingredients and experience the magic. Happy cooking!