Name: Slow Cooker Boneless Turkey Breast Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 pound boneless turkey roast; 1 can cranberry sauce (14 ounces); 1/2 cup orange juice; 1 envelope onion soup mix (2 ounces); 2 teaspoons light brown sugar; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Fresh parsley

Jump to Recipe·5.2 from 28 reviews

If you’ve ever wished Thanksgiving could happen any time you want, this Slow Cooker Boneless Turkey Breast recipe is about to deliver that kind of cozy, festive comfort on demand. With juicy, tender turkey and a sweet-tangy cranberry glaze infused with hints of orange, garlic, and savory onion, it’s elegant enough for a holiday centerpiece yet easy enough for a busy weeknight dinner. Minimal prep, foolproof results, and big bold flavors—this is a slow cooker secret every turkey lover needs to know!

Slow Cooker Boneless Turkey Breast Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is a fabulous example of how just a handful of everyday ingredients can transform an ordinary turkey breast into something absolutely crave-worthy. Each component adds something special, whether it’s richness, color, or pure seasonal flavor, making your Slow Cooker Boneless Turkey Breast shine.

Boneless turkey roast (3 pounds): The star of the show—tender, easy to slice, and ideal for a small gathering or family meal.
Cranberry sauce (1 can, 14 ounces): For that punch of color and sweet-tart flavor; use whole berry or jellied, whichever you prefer.
Orange juice (½ cup): Brightens up the sauce, adds acidity, and balances out the sweetness of the cranberry.
Onion soup mix (1 envelope, 2 ounces): Brings in savory depth and classic comfort food vibes—skip the extra chopping!
Light brown sugar (2 teaspoons): Adds a subtle molasses note and extra caramelization to the glaze.
Paprika (1 teaspoon): Infuses color while giving a mild smoky kick that wakes up every bite.
Poultry seasoning (1 teaspoon): A fragrant blend of herbs that is made for turkey—think sage, thyme, and marjoram.
Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): A pantry hero for boosting savory intensity with zero effort.
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish): A sprinkle of green for freshness and simple elegance right before serving.

How to Make Slow Cooker Boneless Turkey Breast

Step 1: Whip Up the Cranberry Mixture

Grab a mixing bowl and stir together the cranberry sauce, orange juice, onion soup mix, brown sugar, paprika, poultry seasoning, and garlic powder. This blend is the magical marinade that will seep into every inch of the turkey as it cooks, infusing it with layers of sweet, savory, and herby flavors.

Step 2: Prepare the Turkey

Place your fully thawed boneless turkey roast straight into the bottom of your slow cooker. No need for extra prep—just make sure to remove any plastic packaging, and pat it dry for best results. The turkey will gently soak up the flavors as it cooks, becoming ultra-moist and fork-tender.

Step 3: Pour and Smother

Pour that vibrant cranberry mixture right over the turkey roast, making sure it’s well coated all over. Don’t worry if it pools at the bottom—this will turn into a delicious sauce for serving later. The slow cooker will take care of blending everything together into a glossy, aromatic gravy.

Step 4: Cook to Perfection

Cover your slow cooker and set it to low. Let the Slow Cooker Boneless Turkey Breast do its thing for 4 to 6 hours—check that the center reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe, juicy turkey. The best part? Your kitchen will smell absolutely divine while you get on with the rest of your day!

Step 5: Rest, Slice, and Serve

Once cooked, carefully lift the turkey roast out and remove the netting. Let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes, so the juices redistribute and every slice is succulent. Slice and drizzle generously with that gorgeous slow-cooked cranberry sauce from the pot.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Boneless Turkey Breast

Garnishes

Fancy things up by scattering freshly chopped parsley or sprigs of rosemary over the top—beautiful color and a hint of garden-fresh flavor. A few thin orange slices or a sprinkle of orange zest can elevate the look and give a nod to the sauce inside.

Side Dishes

Classic mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, or wild rice pilaf all pair beautifully with the tangy cranberry gravy. Add a bright green veg like sautéed green beans, or keep it comforting with roasted carrots and sweet potatoes. Don’t forget a slice of warm, crusty bread to soak up every drop of sauce!

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Slow Cooker Boneless Turkey Breast sliced atop a mountain of stuffing for a Thanksgiving-in-a-bowl vibe, or pile leftovers into toasted buns with extra cranberry gravy as a next-day sandwich. For an elegant dinner party, fan the slices on a platter and drizzle with sauce for a show-stopping centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover turkey stays moist and delicious when you store it (and the sauce) in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps beautifully for up to three days—just be sure it cools completely before refrigerating.

Freezing

For longer storage, slice any leftover turkey, spoon over enough sauce to keep it moist, and freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Reheat slow and gentle, either in a saucepan on the stove over low heat, or in the microwave with a splash of extra sauce to keep everything juicy. Covering the turkey will help lock in moisture, keeping your seconds just as delicious as the original meal.

FAQs

Can I use a frozen turkey breast in the slow cooker?

Always fully thaw your turkey breast before cooking in the slow cooker. Starting with frozen meat extends the time food spends in the “temperature danger zone,” increasing food safety risks; for the best results, plan ahead and thaw in the refrigerator.

What kind of cranberry sauce works best?

You can use either jellied or whole berry cranberry sauce—both melt down beautifully in the slow cooker. If you love more texture, go for whole berry; if you want a super-smooth sauce, stick with jellied.

Can I make this recipe with a bone-in turkey breast?

Absolutely! Bone-in breasts work well, but you may need to increase the cook time by about an hour. Always check for doneness with an instant-read thermometer and aim for that perfect 165°F in the thickest part.

How do I prevent my turkey breast from drying out?

The slow cooker is already a pro at keeping turkey juicy, but make sure not to overcook it and always let it rest before slicing. The sauce also acts as a built-in basting liquid, ensuring moist, tender results every time.

Is there a way to make the sauce thicker?

If you like a thicker gravy, transfer the sauce from the slow cooker to a small saucepan and simmer it for a few minutes to reduce, or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) and cook until it thickens to your liking.

Final Thoughts

Ready to make holiday-worthy turkey a reality whenever you crave it? Give this Slow Cooker Boneless Turkey Breast a try and watch it become one of your favorite hassle-free comfort meals. I promise, it’s so delicious and easy you’ll find yourself looking for excuses to make it again and again—no special occasion needed!