If you crave a comforting, flavorful, and tender meal, this Slow Cooker Turkey Breast with Homemade Gravy recipe is going to become your go-to. Combining juicy turkey with a rich, savory homemade gravy, this dish brings the warmth of a hearty meal right to your table without any fuss. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, it’s an effortless way to enjoy succulent turkey infused with deep, comforting flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless Cooking: Simply pop the ingredients in the slow cooker and let it work its magic while you relax or focus on other tasks.
Tender and Juicy: Slow cooking ensures the turkey breast stays moist and tender, never drying out.
Rich Homemade Gravy: The plant-based gravy is packed with flavor and the perfect complement to the succulent turkey.
Simple Ingredients: Uses everyday pantry staples and fresh ingredients without complicated steps or specialty items.
Versatile Meal: Ideal for weeknight dinners, holiday feasts, or anytime you want a comforting main dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Slow Cooker Turkey Breast with Homemade Gravy is how a handful of simple ingredients come together to create extraordinary flavor and texture. Each component plays an essential role from the herbs bringing aromatic depth to the natural gelling agent giving the perfect gravy consistency.

Boneless Turkey Breast: Choose a fresh or thawed turkey breast for the tender main protein.
Smoked Turkey Bacon: Adds a smoky, savory undertone that enhances the overall flavor.
Onion and Garlic: Fresh aromatics that build a rich taste foundation.
Apple Cider Vinegar (natural): Balances flavors with a subtle tang and depth.
Vegetarian Worcestershire Sauce (natural): Brings umami and savory complexity to the gravy.
Vegetable Broth: The base for a flavorful, plant-forward gravy.
Fresh Herbs: Thyme, rosemary, and parsley provide freshness and earthiness.
Natural Gelling Agent: Thickens the gravy to luscious perfection without overpowering.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance every bite.

Variations for Slow Cooker Turkey Breast with Homemade Gravy

Feel free to customize this Slow Cooker Turkey Breast with Homemade Gravy to suit your tastes or ingredient availability. The recipe is flexible, making adaptations a breeze based on dietary preferences or what’s in your kitchen.

Spice it Up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a gentle kick.
Herbal Twist: Swap thyme or rosemary for sage or oregano depending on your herb garden.
Mushroom Gravy: Include sautéed mushrooms for an earthy, umami flavor boost in the gravy.
Different Protein Cuts: Use turkey legs or thighs for a slightly different texture and richer flavor.
Dairy-Free Creaminess: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or cashew cream (plant-based) for a silkier gravy.

Slow Cooker Turkey Breast with Homemade Gravy Made Easy

How to Make Slow Cooker Turkey Breast with Homemade Gravy

Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Breast

Rinse the turkey breast gently and pat dry with paper towels. Season it generously with salt and pepper on all sides for a flavourful base.

Step 2: Sauté the Smoked Turkey Bacon and Aromatics

In a skillet, cook the smoked turkey bacon until crisp to build a smoky, savory foundation. Remove and set aside, then sauté onions and garlic in the rendered fat until fragrant and translucent.

Step 3: Layer in the Slow Cooker

Place the turkey breast in the slow cooker, then add the sautéed onions, garlic, and crispy smoked turkey bacon. Sprinkle fresh thyme, rosemary, and parsley on top for aromatic depth.

Step 4: Add Liquids and Seasonings

Pour in vegetable broth, apple cider vinegar (natural), and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural). These ingredients combine to create a rich, flavorful liquid that infuses the turkey as it cooks.

Step 5: Cook Low and Slow

Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or until the turkey breast reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is tender and juicy.

Step 6: Make the Homemade Gravy

Once the turkey is done, remove it and cover to keep warm. Strain the cooking liquid, then whisk in a natural gelling agent dissolved in cold water to thicken the gravy. Simmer gently until silky smooth and luscious.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Slice the turkey breast, drizzle with the homemade gravy, and savor every delicious bite.

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Turkey Breast with Homemade Gravy

Choose Quality Turkey Breast: A fresh or well-thawed breast ensures even cooking and juicy texture.
Brown Aromatics for Depth: Sautéing onion and garlic before slow cooking maximizes flavor development.
Don’t Skip the Resting: Let the turkey rest after cooking to lock in juices and make slicing easier.
Test Gravy Thickness: Gradually add the natural gelling agent and simmer to avoid over-thickening.
Keep the Lid Closed: Avoid lifting the slow cooker lid during cooking to maintain steady temperature and moisture.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Turkey Breast with Homemade Gravy

Garnishes

Fresh parsley or thyme sprigs brighten the plate visually and add a pop of herbal freshness on top of the turkey and gravy.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes (plant-based), roasted seasonal vegetables, or a vibrant green salad to balance the hearty flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve sliced turkey breast over a bed of garlic-infused rice or incorporate the turkey and gravy into a warm hearty sandwich for a cozy twist on leftovers.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the turkey and gravy to cool completely before storing in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Freeze cooked turkey and gravy separately or together in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months to preserve freshness and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat turkey slices and gravy gently in a covered skillet or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to revive moisture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen turkey breast in this recipe?

Yes, but it should be completely thawed before cooking in the slow cooker to ensure even and safe cooking.

How long does the Slow Cooker Turkey Breast with Homemade Gravy take to cook?

Typically, it takes between 6 to 8 hours on the low setting, depending on the size of the turkey breast.

Is the gravy gluten-free?

Yes, using vegetable broth and natural gelling agent keeps this gravy gluten-free and suitable for most dietary needs.

Can I make this recipe on the stove instead of a slow cooker?

While possible, slow cooking delivers the best tenderness and flavor. Stove-top versions require careful monitoring and more frequent stirring.

What sides go best with this turkey and gravy dish?

Mashed potatoes (plant-based), steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or a crisp garden salad all complement this hearty meal beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Turkey Breast with Homemade Gravy is pure comfort food made simple. With juicy turkey and flavor-packed homemade gravy, it’s a perfect recipe to enjoy any day you want a satisfying, delicious meal with minimal effort. Give it a try and watch it become a favorite in your kitchen!

Slow Cooker Turkey Breast with Homemade Gravy

Author: Michael
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Slow Cooker Turkey Breast with Homemade Gravy is a comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender, juicy turkey breast cooked low and slow with smoked turkey bacon and fresh herbs. The rich, plant-based homemade gravy perfectly complements the succulent turkey, making it ideal for family dinners or special occasions with minimal effort.

Instructions

Prepare the Turkey Breast: Rinse the turkey breast gently and pat dry with paper towels. Season it generously with salt and pepper on all sides to create a flavorful base.
Sauté the Smoked Turkey Bacon and Aromatics: In a skillet, cook the smoked turkey bacon slices until crisp to build a smoky, savory foundation. Remove and set aside, then sauté the chopped onions and minced garlic in the rendered fat until fragrant and translucent.
Layer in the Slow Cooker: Place the seasoned turkey breast into the slow cooker. Add the sautéed onions, garlic, and crispy smoked turkey bacon on top. Sprinkle fresh thyme, rosemary, and parsley over the layers for aromatic depth.
Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the vegetable broth, apple cider vinegar (natural), and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural). These combine to create a rich, flavorful liquid that will infuse the turkey during cooking.
Cook Low and Slow: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or until the turkey breast reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and becomes tender and juicy.
Make the Homemade Gravy: Once cooking is complete, remove the turkey breast and cover it to keep warm. Strain the cooking liquid into a saucepan, then whisk in the natural gelling agent dissolved in cold water to thicken the gravy. Simmer gently until the gravy is silky smooth and luscious.
Serve and Enjoy: Slice the turkey breast and drizzle generously with the homemade gravy. Garnish with additional fresh parsley or thyme if desired, and enjoy your comforting meal.

Notes

Choose a fresh or well-thawed turkey breast to ensure even cooking and a juicy texture.
Sautéing onion and garlic before slow cooking enhances the depth of flavor in the dish.
Allow the turkey breast to rest after cooking to lock in juices and make slicing easier.
Add the natural gelling agent gradually and simmer to avoid over-thickening the gravy.
Keep the slow cooker lid closed during cooking to maintain consistent temperature and moisture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6 to 8 hours
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: American