When it comes to preparing a hearty and comforting meal with minimal effort, a Slow Cooker Turkey Roast is the perfect option. Whether you’re planning a family dinner, hosting guests, or simply want an easy meal to enjoy throughout the week, this recipe is sure to impress. With tender turkey, savory vegetables, and a rich sauce that cooks low and slow, it’s a dish everyone will love.

Why Make a Slow Cooker Turkey Roast?

Slow cooking is a method that infuses your meal with deep flavors, and a turkey roast is no exception. Cooking turkey breast or turkey thigh in the slow cooker allows the meat to become incredibly tender and juicy, while the accompanying vegetables absorb all the delicious flavors. Here are some reasons why this slow cooker turkey roast is a must-try:

Effortless Preparation

With just 15 minutes of prep time, this meal practically cooks itself. Once you’ve seasoned the turkey and placed it in the slow cooker, you can set it and forget it. The slow cooker takes care of the rest, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to enjoy a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

One-Pot Meal

This recipe is a one-pot wonder, meaning there’s minimal cleanup involved. The turkey, vegetables, and sauce all cook together, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly. The result is a complete meal that’s satisfying and easy to prepare.

Healthy and Delicious

This turkey roast recipe is a great source of lean protein, and the vegetables (potatoes and carrots) add nutrients and fiber. By using olive oil and a low-sodium broth, you’re keeping the dish healthy without sacrificing flavor.

Versatile and Flavorful

The combination of balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, and honey gives the dish a sweet-savory balance that pairs perfectly with the herbs and vegetables. The fresh rosemary and thyme add an aromatic touch, elevating the entire meal.w

Ingredients You’ll Need

To prepare the Slow Cooker Turkey Roast, gather the following ingredients:

• 3-4 lb Turkey Breast or Turkey Thigh Roast: The star of the dish, providing juicy and tender meat.
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil: For searing the turkey, ensuring a flavorful, crispy exterior.
• 1 tsp Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder: Basic seasonings that build a savory foundation for the roast.
• 1/2 tsp Dried Thyme, Oregano, Cumin: These dried herbs add depth and warmth to the flavor profile.
• 1 Large Onion, Diced: Onions contribute a savory sweetness and form the base of the cooking liquid.
• 4 Cloves Garlic, Minced: Adds a rich, aromatic flavor that complements the turkey.
• 1 1/2 cups Chicken Broth: Helps keep the turkey moist and serves as the base for the cooking liquid.
• 1/4 cup Balsamic Vinegar: The tangy balsamic vinegar enhances the dish with a slight acidity and sweetness.
• 1/4 cup Soy Sauce: Adds umami and saltiness to the cooking liquid.
• 2-3 tbsp Honey: A touch of sweetness to balance out the savory flavors.
• 2 lbs Potatoes, Cut into 2-Inch Pieces: Potatoes absorb the flavors of the turkey and broth, making them a perfect side dish.
• 1.5 lbs Carrots, Cut into 2-Inch Pieces: Carrots add a natural sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.
• 4-6 Sprigs Fresh Rosemary and Thyme: Fresh herbs add an aromatic fragrance to the turkey and vegetables.

How to Make Slow Cooker Turkey Roast

This slow cooker turkey roast recipe is incredibly easy to make, but the results are nothing short of delicious. Follow these simple steps to create a flavorful and tender roast that will have your family coming back for seconds.

Step 1: Season the Turkey Roast

Start by seasoning your turkey roast generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, and cumin. These spices will enhance the turkey’s natural flavor and give it that savory, aromatic profile that’s essential for this dish.

Step 2: Sear the Turkey

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the turkey roast and sear it on all sides until it’s browned and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side. Searing the turkey helps lock in the juices and creates a flavorful crust. After searing, transfer the turkey to the slow cooker.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

In the same skillet, add the diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onions are soft and fragrant. This step helps release the sugars in the onions, adding sweetness to the dish.

Step 4: Create the Flavorful Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Stir in the balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, and honey. The vinegar brings a tangy note, while the soy sauce adds richness, and the honey balances everything with a hint of sweetness. Pour this flavorful sauce over the turkey in the slow cooker.

Step 5: Add Vegetables and Herbs

Arrange the potatoes and carrots around the turkey roast in the slow cooker. Add the fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs, tucking them in among the vegetables and turkey. These herbs will infuse the entire dish with aromatic flavors as it cooks.

Step 6: Slow Cook the Turkey Roast

Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours. The turkey will become very tender, and the internal temperature should reach 165°F when done. During this time, the potatoes and carrots will absorb all the savory flavors from the turkey and sauce, creating a perfectly balanced meal.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once the turkey is cooked, remove the herb sprigs and discard them. You can either slice or shred the turkey, depending on your preference. Serve the turkey with the potatoes, carrots, and some of the flavorful cooking liquid. If you want a thicker gravy, strain about 1 cup of the liquid, whisk in 2 tsp cornstarch, and microwave for 30-60 seconds until thickened. Drizzle this gravy over the turkey for an extra touch of flavor.

Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Turkey Roast

• For extra flavor: Add a splash of white wine or apple cider vinegar to the cooking liquid for a touch of acidity.
• For crispier skin: After slow cooking, transfer the turkey to a baking sheet and broil it in the oven for a few minutes to crisp up the skin.
• Vegetable swaps: Feel free to substitute the potatoes and carrots with other root vegetables like parsnips, sweet potatoes, or turnips for a different flavor profile.
• Leftovers: Store leftover turkey and vegetables in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. The flavors only get better the next day!

Conclusion

A Slow Cooker Turkey Roast is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. By slow cooking the turkey, potatoes, and carrots, you’ll get a juicy, tender roast that’s infused with savory and sweet notes. This one-pot meal is perfect for busy days when you want a flavorful dinner without the hassle. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to be a hit.

Try making this Slow Cooker Turkey Roast for your next meal, and enjoy a hearty and delicious dish that’s full of flavor.