Crock Pot Whole Turkey

This Crock Pot Whole Turkey is a juicy and tender recipe, which uses whole turkey and garlic butter. It’s a no-fuss take on the classic, ready in about 8 hours and 10 minutes.

Crock Pot Whole Turkey Ingredients

• ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 2 teaspoons seasoning salt (I use Lawry’s)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 8 lb whole turkey (about 3.5-4 kg)
• ½ cup water (optional)

Gravy:

• ½ cup chicken, turkey or vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon corn starch
• Additional seasonings as desired

How To Make Crock Pot Whole Turkey

1. Make the garlic butter: In a small bowl, mix butter, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, seasoning salt, and black pepper. Set aside 1–2 tablespoons of this mixture for later.
2. Season the turkey: Gently loosen the skin of the turkey and spread the garlic butter underneath and on top. For best results, do this the night before and refrigerate to let the flavors soak in.
3. Cook the turkey: Add water to the bottom of the crock pot (optional). Place the turkey in the crock pot and cook for 3–4 hours on high or 7–8 hours on low. The internal temperature should reach 170°F in the breast and 180°F in the thigh.
4. Broil for a golden finish: Transfer turkey to a roasting pan or serving platter. Melt the reserved garlic butter and brush over the skin. Broil for 5–8 minutes, watching closely, until the skin is golden and crisp.
5. Make the gravy: Strain the juices from the slow cooker into a saucepan. In a separate bowl, whisk broth and corn starch, then stir into the pot. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring often, until slightly thickened. Season to taste.
6. Rest and serve: Let the turkey rest for 10–20 minutes before slicing. Serve with the prepared gravy.

Recipe Tips

• Can I cook a frozen turkey in the crock pot?
  No, always thaw the turkey completely before cooking to ensure safe and even cooking.
• How to get crispy turkey skin in a slow cooker:
  Use the broiler after slow cooking to brown and crisp up the skin.
• Can I use turkey breast instead of a whole turkey?
  Yes, adjust the cook time accordingly based on the size of the breast.
• How to check turkey doneness:
  Use a meat thermometer—170°F in the breast and 180°F in the thigh are safe temperatures.
• How to prep the turkey in advance:
  Season with garlic butter and store covered in the fridge up to 24 hours before cooking.

What To Serve With Whole Turkey

This classic turkey pairs well with all your favorite holiday or comfort-food sides:

• Mashed potatoes and gravy
• Stuffing or dressing
• Green bean casserole
• Cranberry sauce
• Dinner rolls or cornbread

How To Store Whole Turkey

Refrigerate: Store leftover turkey in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Freeze cooked, cooled turkey in zip-top bags or containers for up to 3 months. Reheat gently to avoid drying out.

Whole Turkey Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 559cal
• Protein: 69g
• Fat: 29g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Cholesterol: 262mg
• Sodium: 320mg
• Potassium: 736mg
• Calcium: 47mg
• Iron: 3mg

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.

FAQs

Can I stuff the turkey before slow cooking it?
No, stuffing in the crock pot is not recommended due to food safety concerns.

Why is my turkey falling apart?
That’s normal in the slow cooker—it cooks the meat to a very tender, fall-off-the-bone texture.

How do I keep the turkey from drying out?
Adding water or broth to the crock pot helps, and basting with garlic butter before broiling keeps it moist.

Can I skip the broiling step?
Yes, but broiling gives you that golden, crispy skin if presentation matters.

What size crock pot do I need for a whole turkey?
A 6-quart or larger crock pot works best for an 8-lb turkey.

Try More Recipes:

• Crock Pot White Turkey Chili
• Crock Pot Turkey Wings With Cream Of Mushroom
• Crock Pot Turkey Wings With Cream Of Chicken