Crock Pot Turkey Cooking Times: The Ultimate Guide

Right, so you’ve got a turkey, a crock pot, and a hankering for a delicious, hassle-free dinner. You’ve come to the right place! This is your ultimate guide to nailing the perfect slow-cooked turkey in your trusty Crock Pot.I've been a bit of a Crock Pot enthusiast for years, and let me tell you, there's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a slow-cooked feast wafting through the house. And trust me, turkey is a total game-changer in the Crock Pot. It turns out tender, juicy, and bursting with flavour – a far cry from the dry, overcooked bird that some of us might have experienced in the past. So, grab a cuppa, get comfy, and let's dive into the world of Crock Pot turkey!

(Part 1) Choosing the Right Turkey

The first step, of course, is picking the perfect turkey. Now, you might think, "Isn't a turkey just a turkey?" Well, not quite. The size and type of turkey can make a big difference in how long it takes to cook.

Turkey Size Matters

Small turkeys: These are usually around 8-12 pounds and are ideal for smaller gatherings. They tend to cook a bit quicker, so you'll want to adjust your cooking times accordingly. A small turkey can be a great option for a weeknight dinner or a smaller family gathering. Medium turkeys: These come in around 12-16 pounds and are perfect for a standard family dinner. They offer a nice balance between portion size and cooking time. A medium turkey is a good choice for a thanksgiving dinner or a holiday gathering with friends and family. Large turkeys: For those big holiday feasts, you'll want a large turkey, which can weigh anywhere from 16 to 20 pounds or more. These will require a bit more time in the Crock Pot, so be prepared for a longer cooking session. A large turkey is ideal for a big family gathering or a large potluck.

Fresh vs. frozen turkey

Fresh turkey: This is the kind that comes in your butcher's counter, ready to be cooked. You can pop it straight into the Crock Pot, saving you some thawing time. If you're short on time, a fresh turkey is a great option. Frozen turkey: This is a convenient option, but you'll need to thaw it out completely before cooking. A good rule of thumb is to thaw a frozen turkey in the refrigerator for 24 hours for every 5 pounds of turkey. If you're planning ahead, a frozen turkey can be a good way to stock up on your holiday bird.

(Part 2) Prepping Your Turkey

Once you've got your turkey chosen and prepped, it's time to get down to business with the pre-cooking preparations. This is where a little bit of care and attention can really make a difference in the final flavour and texture of your turkey.

Brining Your Turkey

Brining is a technique that involves soaking the turkey in a salt-water solution, which helps to lock in moisture and create a more tender, succulent result.

I've tried both dry brining and wet brining, and honestly, both work wonders. Dry brining involves rubbing the turkey with a salt mixture and letting it sit in the fridge, while wet brining involves submerging the turkey in a brine solution. The choice is yours, but I'd recommend giving brining a go if you're after a super moist and flavorful turkey. Brining is especially helpful if you're working with a turkey that might be a bit on the dry side.

Seasoning Your Turkey

Now, this is where you get to unleash your inner culinary artist! There's no shortage of ways to season your turkey, and you can really experiment with different flavours to suit your taste.

• Classic Herb Rub: Rosemary, thyme, sage, and garlic powder are always a classic combo for turkey. A sprinkle of black pepper and salt for good measure, and you're good to go. This herb rub creates a familiar and comforting flavour that pairs well with turkey.
• Citrus Burst: A mix of lemon zest, orange zest, and a pinch of cayenne pepper adds a vibrant citrus kick that will have everyone asking for more. This seasoning adds a fresh and bright flavour to your turkey, perfect for a lighter meal.
• Spicy Delight: If you like things a bit hotter, try a blend of paprika, cumin, chili powder, and a dash of cayenne pepper. This is sure to add a fiery kick to your turkey. This spice blend will add a bold and flavourful kick to your turkey, perfect for those who like a little heat.

Don't be afraid to get creative and experiment with your seasonings! Remember, it's your turkey, so let your taste buds guide you.

(Part 3) The Crock Pot Essentials

You've got your turkey prepped and ready to go, and now it's time to tackle the Crock Pot itself. A few key elements will help ensure your turkey cooks up beautifully and without any hiccups.

Choosing the Right Crock Pot

Size matters: Make sure your Crock Pot is big enough to accommodate your turkey. A 6- or 7-quart Crock Pot is generally a good size for a medium turkey, while you might need an 8- or 9-quart Crock Pot for a larger bird. If you're unsure, it's always better to err on the side of a larger Crock Pot to ensure that your turkey has plenty of room to cook evenly. Features: Some Crock Pots have handy features like a timer or a "keep warm" setting, which can be super useful when you're cooking a large turkey. A timer can help you keep track of your cooking time, while a "keep warm" setting can help keep your turkey warm and ready to serve when you're ready to eat.

Adding Liquid

Adding liquid to your Crock Pot is essential for ensuring the turkey stays moist and doesn't dry out during cooking.

I usually opt for a mix of chicken broth and water, but you can also use apple juice, white wine, or even a mixture of your favourite ingredients for a flavour boost. Remember, you want enough liquid to come halfway up the turkey's sides, but not so much that it completely submerges it. The liquid will help to create steam and keep the turkey moist.

(Part 4) Crock Pot Turkey Cooking Times: A Breakdown

Now, let's get to the heart of the matter – the cooking times! These are just rough guidelines, and your actual cooking time might vary depending on your turkey's size and your Crock Pot's settings.

Cooking Times for Whole Turkey

Here's a general table you can use as a starting point:

Turkey Size (lbs)	Cooking Time (Hours)
8-12	6-8
12-16	8-10
16-20	10-12
20	12

It's important to note that these are just estimates, and you should always use a meat thermometer to ensure that your turkey is cooked through. Always err on the side of caution and cook your turkey for a bit longer if you're unsure.

Factors That Affect Cooking Time

Turkey Size: As we mentioned earlier, a bigger turkey means a longer cooking time. A larger turkey will take longer to cook through, so adjust your cooking time accordingly. Crock Pot Size: A larger Crock Pot might cook a little faster, while a smaller one might take a bit longer. A larger Crock Pot will allow for more even heat distribution, which can speed up the cooking process. Crock Pot Setting: Your Crock Pot's setting (low or high) will also affect the cooking time. Cooking on low will generally take longer than cooking on high. Oven Setting: If you choose to finish cooking your turkey in the oven, you'll need to adjust your cooking time accordingly. Finishing your turkey in the oven can help to crisp up the skin.

(Part 5) Checking for Doneness

Now, how do you know when your turkey is ready to feast on? You need to make sure it's cooked through and reaches a safe internal temperature.

The Meat Thermometer Method

This is the most reliable way to check if your turkey is done. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the turkey thigh, making sure you don't touch any bone. The turkey is ready when the thermometer reads 165°F (74°C). A meat thermometer is essential for ensuring that your turkey is cooked to a safe temperature.

The Fork Test

This method isn't as precise as using a thermometer, but it can give you a general idea. Insert a fork into the thickest part of the thigh. If the juices run clear and the meat is no longer pink, it's likely done. However, this method is not as accurate as using a meat thermometer, so it's best to use it as a secondary check.

(Part 6) Resting Your Turkey

Once your turkey is cooked, don't rush to carve it right away. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the turkey, ensuring a moist and flavorful result.

You can cover the turkey loosely with foil to help keep it warm while it rests. Resting the turkey is a crucial step in ensuring that your turkey stays juicy and flavorful.

(Part 7) Carving Your Turkey

Now comes the fun part - carving your beautiful slow-cooked turkey! I always use a sharp carving knife and a cutting board.

Start by carefully carving the breast meat, then move on to the legs and thighs. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also try removing the turkey wings for a more elegant presentation. You can use the turkey bones to make a flavorful stock for soups or stews.

(Part 8) Serving Your Turkey

And there you have it, your delicious slow-cooked turkey, ready to be served! I love to serve mine with a medley of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, and gravy.

But of course, the possibilities are endless – go wild with your sides and create a feast that reflects your personal style. Turkey pairs well with a variety of sides, from classic dishes like mashed potatoes and gravy to more creative options like roasted vegetables and cranberry sauce.

(Part 9) Leftovers: A Culinary Treasure

Let's face it, you're likely to have some delicious leftover turkey. But don't just reheat it the same way. Get creative and give your leftovers a new life!

• turkey sandwiches: A classic for a reason, these are perfect for a quick and easy lunch. Add a dollop of mayonnaise, some lettuce, and tomato for a hearty sandwich. Turkey sandwiches are a classic for a reason, and they're perfect for using up leftover turkey.
• turkey salad: Mix your leftover turkey with celery, onion, mayonnaise, and your favourite herbs for a refreshing salad. Serve it on bread, crackers, or lettuce leaves. Turkey salad is a delicious and versatile way to use leftover turkey.
• turkey soup: Use leftover turkey to make a flavorful and comforting soup. Combine it with vegetables, broth, and your favourite spices for a warming meal. Turkey soup is a classic comfort food, and it's a great way to use up leftover turkey.

Don't throw those turkey bones away! Use them to make a rich and flavorful turkey stock, which you can use for soups, stews, or sauces. Turkey stock is a great base for soups, stews, and sauces, and it's easy to make at home.

(Part 10) FAQs

Now, you're probably wondering, "Is there anything else I need to know?" Here are some frequently asked questions that might clear up any lingering doubts.

1. Can I Cook a turkey breast in the Crock Pot?

Absolutely! Turkey breasts are a great option for a smaller gathering or a quick weeknight dinner. The cooking time is shorter than for a whole turkey, usually around 4-6 hours on low. Turkey breasts are a convenient and easy option for a smaller meal.

2. Can I Add Stuffing to the Crock Pot With My Turkey?

While it's tempting, I wouldn't recommend adding stuffing directly to the Crock Pot with your turkey. Stuffing needs to be cooked thoroughly to avoid foodborne illness, and it's not recommended to cook it in the Crock Pot alongside the turkey. You can cook the stuffing separately in a casserole dish or in the oven.

3. Can I Use a turkey brine in the Crock Pot?

Yes, you can absolutely use a turkey brine in your Crock Pot. Just make sure to remove the turkey from the brine and pat it dry before placing it in the Crock Pot. Brining your turkey can help to keep it moist and flavorful, even when cooking in the Crock Pot.

4. Can I Freeze Leftover Turkey?

Yes, leftover turkey can be frozen for up to 3-4 months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freezing leftover turkey is a great way to save it for later use.

5. What's the Best Way to Reheat Leftover Turkey?

The best way to reheat leftover turkey is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and place the turkey in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil and bake for about 30 minutes, or until heated through. Reheating turkey in the oven helps to keep it moist and flavorful.

(Part 11) Final Thoughts

There you have it – your comprehensive guide to Crock Pot turkey cooking! Whether you're a seasoned cook or a newbie in the kitchen, this method offers a foolproof way to achieve tender, flavorful turkey that will impress even the most discerning palates. So, grab your Crock Pot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a truly unforgettable feast. Happy cooking!