Try effortless gourmet with this slow cooker turkey breast recipe, a marvel of minimalism in the kitchen. With just a turkey breast and a packet of onion soup mix in a slow cooker, you can unlock a dish brimming with flavor and nutrition.
Turkey, a lean source of high-quality protein, offers a treasure trove of nutrients such as B vitamins, essential for energy metabolism, and selenium, an antioxidant that supports immune function. This recipe not only simplifies cooking but also turns any meal into a healthy feast, perfect for busy lifestyles and those seeking culinary simplicity with nutritional wealth.
Turkey: A Nutritional Powerhouse
Turkey is not only a low-fat, high-protein choice but also rich in essential nutrients vital for overall health. With almost 24 grams of protein per 3-ounce serving, turkey supports muscle maintenance and growth, making it especially valuable for seniors aiming to preserve muscle mass and physical independence.
It is also packed with minerals like selenium,1 which is crucial for DNA synthesis, immune function, and reproductive health.
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Also, turkey is an excellent source of iron and phosphorus, which are essential for preventing anemia and maintaining strong bones. Its low saturated fat content and high level of arginine—an amino acid that helps keep arteries flexible—make it a heart-healthy alternative to red meats, which typically contain higher levels of saturated fats.
These nutritional benefits position turkey as a top choice for those looking to enhance their diet while supporting cardiovascular and skeletal health.
Perfect Pairings
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic side that complements the tender, savory flavors of turkey breast. They provide a smooth texture contrast and soak up any juices or gravy beautifully.
- Cranberry Sauce: Cranberry sauce’s tangy and sweet flavors make it a delightful complement to turkey’s richness. Whether homemade or store-bought, cranberry sauce adds a festive touch to the meal.
- Green Bean Almondine: Lightly sautéed green beans with slivered almonds offer a crunchy, nutty addition to the plate, adding both color and a fresh, earthy flavor that balances the meal.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Roasted until caramelized, Brussels sprouts bring a hearty, slightly bitter complement that pairs wonderfully with the mildness of turkey.
- Sweet Potato Casserole: For a hint of sweetness, a sweet potato casserole topped with marshmallows or a pecan crumble offers a rich, flavorful side that contrasts nicely with the savory turkey.
- Gravy: Homemade turkey gravy made from the drippings of the slow-cooker turkey breast enhances the dish’s flavors and adds moisture and richness to every bite.
- Garden Salad: A light garden salad dressed with a vinaigrette can offer a refreshing, crisp side, perfect for balancing the heartier elements of the meal.
- Dinner Rolls: Soft, warm dinner rolls are essential for sopping up gravy and maximizing the meal’s flavors, providing a comforting, satisfying finish.
Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
Ingredients
- 6 lbs bone-in turkey breast
- 1 oz dry onion soup mix
Instructions
- Preparation: Begin by rinsing the turkey breast and patting it dry. Trim any excess skin but leave enough to cover the breast.
- Season: Generously rub the onion soup mix all over the turkey, both on the outside and under the skin, to ensure every bite is infused with flavor.
- Cook: Place the turkey in the slow cooker. Cook on high for one hour, then switch to low and continue cooking for an additional seven hours. The turkey is done when an instant-read thermometer inserted near the bone reads 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Serve: Let the turkey rest before slicing to keep the juices inside. Serve hot and enjoy the flavors of a dish that tastes like it took all day to make, with minimal effort on your part.
Nutrition
Source:
- https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Selenium-HealthProfessional/
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.