Let me tell you, crock pot turkey tenderloin is one of my absolute go-to recipes when life gets a little crazy! It’s so simple and packed with flavor that you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it. I love that I can toss everything into the crock pot in the morning and come home to a delicious, hearty meal without any fuss. This dish is perfect for busy families or anyone trying to meal prep for the week. Plus, the tender turkey just melts in your mouth! Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be adding it to your rotation for sure. It’s a real winner!
Ingredients List
- 1.5 pounds turkey tenderloin: Look for a nice, juicy piece of turkey tenderloin—it’s lean yet tender and perfect for slow cooking.
- 1 cup chicken broth: This adds moisture and richness. You can use low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake!
- 1 onion, chopped: A sweet onion works wonderfully here, adding a depth of flavor that complements the turkey beautifully.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic gives this dish a punch! You can adjust this amount based on how garlicky you like it.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: This herb adds a warm, earthy flavor. If you have fresh thyme, feel free to use that instead!
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary: Rosemary gives a lovely aroma and taste that pairs perfectly with turkey.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t skimp on seasoning! Adjust to your liking for the best flavor.
How to Prepare Instructions
- First things first, place your turkey tenderloin right in the crock pot. Make sure it’s the star of the show!
- Now, pour in 1 cup of chicken broth—it’s gonna keep everything moist and flavorful. Then, add in your chopped onion and minced garlic. Seriously, this is where the magic starts!
- Next, sprinkle in the dried thyme and rosemary, along with a good pinch of salt and pepper. Give everything a gentle stir to combine the flavors.
- Cover the crock pot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. I usually go for low and slow because it just makes the turkey so tender!
- About 30 minutes before you think it’s done, I like to check the temperature. Remember, the turkey needs to reach an internal temperature of 165°F to be safe and fully cooked. A meat thermometer is your best friend here!
- Once it’s done cooking, remove the turkey tenderloin from the pot and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy! Then slice it up and serve it with all those delicious juices. Enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy preparation: Just toss everything in the crock pot and let it do the work while you go about your day!
- Flavorful results: The slow cooking method really enhances the flavors, making every bite melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
- Healthy meal option: With lean turkey and wholesome ingredients, this dish fits perfectly into a balanced diet.
- Great for meal prep: You can easily make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week—meal planning made simple!
- Versatile serving suggestions: Pair it with rice, veggies, or even toss it in a salad for a delightful twist. The options are endless!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make this crock pot turkey tenderloin even better! Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure you get perfect results every time:
- Marinate for extra flavor: If you have time, consider marinating the turkey overnight in the fridge. Just mix the broth with some herbs and spices to really amp up the flavor!
- Adjust the seasoning: Don’t hesitate to tweak the salt and pepper to suit your taste! You can also play around with other herbs like parsley or sage for a different flavor profile.
- Add vegetables: Throw in some chopped carrots, celery, or bell peppers for a one-pot meal that’s packed with nutrients. They’ll soak up all those lovely flavors!
- Use a meat thermometer: This is super important! It takes the guesswork out of cooking. Just pop it into the thickest part of the turkey to make sure it hits that magic 165°F.
- Let it rest: After removing the turkey from the pot, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps keep all those natural juices locked in for a juicier bite!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of ways to switch things up with this crock pot turkey tenderloin! Here are some fun ideas:
- Herb swap: Try using fresh herbs instead of dried for an even brighter flavor! Fresh rosemary and thyme can really elevate the dish.
- Add vegetables: Toss in some chopped carrots, potatoes, or green beans along with the turkey. They’ll cook beautifully in the broth and make for a complete meal!
- Change the broth: Experiment with different liquids! Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth or even apple juice for a hint of sweetness.
- Spice it up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños to the mix for a flavorful kick.
- Sweet and savory: Mix in a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup for a delightful sweet contrast to the savory turkey.
- Asian twist: Add some soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil for an Asian-inspired flavor profile. Serve it over rice for a delicious fusion dish!
Get creative and make this recipe your own! There’s no wrong way to enjoy a turkey tenderloin, and I can’t wait to hear what delicious variations you come up with!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Once you’ve enjoyed your delicious crock pot turkey tenderloin, you’ll likely have some tasty leftovers to savor! Storing them properly is key to keeping that flavor intact. Here’s how I do it:
- Storing leftovers: Allow the turkey to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent moisture buildup and keeps it fresh. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—perfect for a quick meal later in the week!
- Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, the best way to reheat the turkey is in the microwave. Just place it on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it moist, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. You can also reheat it in a skillet on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth to keep it juicy.
- Freezing: If you have more leftovers than you can eat in a few days, you can freeze the turkey tenderloin! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating!
Following these tips will ensure you enjoy every last bite of your turkey tenderloin, even days later!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying my crock pot turkey tenderloin, it’s always nice to know what you’re putting into your body! Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional values per serving:
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 30g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. It’s a great lean protein choice, especially if you’re looking for a healthy meal option. Enjoy every bite without a worry!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen turkey tenderloin in the crock pot?
Yes, you can absolutely use frozen turkey tenderloin! Just keep in mind that it will take longer to cook. Make sure to cook it on low for at least 8-10 hours to ensure it’s fully cooked and tender.
What can I serve with crock pot turkey tenderloin?
There are so many great options! You can serve it over rice, alongside mashed potatoes, or even with a fresh salad. It also pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a hearty grain like quinoa.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Definitely! This slow cooker turkey recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time and store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
How do I know when the turkey is done cooking?
The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. The turkey should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. This ensures that it’s safe to eat and perfectly cooked!
Can I add more spices or vegetables to the recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your spices and veggies. You can add things like carrots, potatoes, or even bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly if you’re adding a lot of extra ingredients!
Crock Pot Turkey Tenderloin: 5 Flavorful Secrets to Success
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Crock pot turkey tenderloin is a simple and flavorful dish that cooks slowly to perfection.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds turkey tenderloin
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place turkey tenderloin in the crock pot.
- Add chicken broth, onion, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Check for doneness; turkey should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Remove turkey, let it rest, and slice before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the turkey overnight.
- Serve with vegetables or over rice.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: crock pot turkey tenderloin, slow cooker turkey, turkey tenderloin recipe