Slow-Cooked Turkey: The Ultimate Thanksgiving Dinner

ByMike Thompson Turkey For Thanksgiving

There’s something about a slow-cooked turkey that just makes it taste better. Maybe it’s the way the meat is so tender and juicy, or the way the flavors have time to really meld together. Whatever the reason, slow-cooked turkey is a classic dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

In this article, we’ll show you how to slow-cook a turkey in the oven. We’ll cover everything from choosing the right turkey to preparing it for the oven. We’ll also give you some tips on how to make the best-tasting slow-cooked turkey ever.

So if you’re looking for a delicious and easy way to cook a turkey, be sure to give this slow-cooker method a try!

Slow-Cooked Turkey: The Ultimate Thanksgiving Dinner
Slow-Cooked Turkey: The Ultimate Thanksgiving Dinner

Slow Cooking Turkey in the Oven

| Ingredients | Instructions | Tips |
|—|—|—|
| 1 (12- to 14-pound) turkey | Preheat oven to 275 degrees F (135 degrees C). |
| 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted | Rinse the turkey inside and out and pat dry. |
| 1 tablespoon dried sage | Loosely stuff the turkey with the onion, celery, and carrots. |
| 1 tablespoon dried thyme | Tie the legs together with kitchen twine. |
| 1 tablespoon dried rosemary | Place the turkey in a large roasting pan. |
| 1 teaspoon salt | Drizzle the turkey with the melted butter. |
| 1/2 teaspoon black pepper | Sprinkle the turkey with the salt, pepper, sage, thyme, and rosemary. |
| 1 cup chicken broth | Cover the turkey with aluminum foil. |
| 1/2 cup dry white wine | Roast the turkey for 3 hours. |
| 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar | Remove the foil and baste the turkey with the pan juices. |
| 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce | Continue to roast the turkey for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F (74 degrees C). |
| 1 bay leaf | Let the turkey rest for 15 minutes before carving. |

Yield: 12 to 14 servings

Choosing the Right Turkey

When choosing a turkey for slow cooking, there are a few factors to consider.

Size and weight

The size of the turkey will determine how long it will take to cook. A general rule of thumb is to allow 1 hour of cooking time per pound of turkey. So, a 10-pound turkey will take about 10 hours to cook.

If you are planning to cook the turkey in a slow cooker, you will need to make sure that the cooker is large enough to accommodate the turkey. Most slow cookers can hold a turkey up to 12 pounds.

Type of turkey

There are two main types of turkeys available: whole turkeys and boneless, skinless turkey breasts. Whole turkeys are more economical, but they take longer to cook. Boneless, skinless turkey breasts are more expensive, but they cook faster.

Fresh vs. frozen

You can choose to buy a fresh or frozen turkey. Fresh turkeys are more flavorful, but they need to be thawed before cooking. Frozen turkeys are more convenient, but they may not be as flavorful as fresh turkeys.

Preparing the Turkey

Before you can cook the turkey, you need to prepare it. This includes thawing the turkey, removing the giblets, and marinating the turkey.

Thawing the turkey

If you are using a frozen turkey, you will need to thaw it before cooking. The best way to thaw a turkey is to place it in the refrigerator for 24-48 hours. You can also thaw a turkey in a sink full of cold water.

Removing the giblets

The giblets are the internal organs of the turkey. They are usually found in a bag inside the turkey’s cavity. To remove the giblets, you will need to reach into the turkey’s cavity and pull out the bag. The bag will contain the turkey’s heart, liver, and gizzard.

Marinating the turkey

Marinating the turkey is optional, but it can help to add flavor to the meat. You can marinate the turkey in a variety of different liquids, such as:

White wine
Beer
Fruit juice
Vinegar
Olive oil

Marinating the turkey for several hours or overnight will give the best results.

Slow Cooking the Turkey

Once the turkey is thawed and prepared, you can start slow cooking it. Here are the steps:

1. Preheat the slow cooker to low heat.
2. Place the turkey in the slow cooker.
3. Add any desired liquid, such as broth or water.
4. Cover the slow cooker and cook for 8-10 hours, or until the internal temperature of the turkey reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Slow cooking a turkey is a great way to cook a delicious and juicy turkey. Just follow these tips and you will be sure to have a successful meal.

Additional tips:

If you are cooking a large turkey, you may need to cook it for longer than 10 hours.
You can check the internal temperature of the turkey using a meat thermometer.
To make sure that the turkey is cooked evenly, you can turn it over halfway through the cooking time.
You can also add vegetables to the slow cooker along with the turkey. This will help to create a flavorful gravy.!

Slow Cooking the Turkey

Slow cooking a turkey is a great way to ensure that it is cooked evenly and moist. It is also a more hands-off method than roasting, so you can relax and enjoy your Thanksgiving dinner without having to worry about constantly checking on the turkey.

To slow cook a turkey, you will need:

A large slow cooker
A 5- to 7-pound turkey
Salt
Pepper
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Vegetable oil
Water

Instructions:

1. Rinse the turkey inside and out and pat it dry.
2. Season the turkey with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Drizzle the turkey with vegetable oil.
4. Place the turkey in the slow cooker.
5. Add enough water to come halfway up the sides of the turkey.
6. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours, or until the turkey is cooked through.
7. Remove the turkey from the slow cooker and let it rest for 15 minutes before carving.

Temperature and time

The cooking time for a slow-cooked turkey will vary depending on the size of the turkey and the temperature of the slow cooker. A 5- to 7-pound turkey will typically take 8 to 10 hours to cook on low. If you are using a larger turkey, you may need to increase the cooking time.

Basting the turkey

Basting the turkey while it is cooking will help to keep it moist. To baste the turkey, simply spoon some of the liquid from the slow cooker over the turkey every few hours.

Carving the turkey

Once the turkey has finished cooking, let it rest for 15 minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and the meat to firm up. To carve the turkey, use a sharp knife to cut along the breastbone and backbone. Then, slice the turkey into pieces.

Storing Leftovers

Leftover turkey can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat leftover turkey, you can either microwave it or bake it in the oven.

Storing Leftovers

Leftover turkey can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat leftover turkey, you can either microwave it or bake it in the oven.

Microwaving leftover turkey

To reheat leftover turkey in the microwave, place the turkey in a microwave-safe dish and add a little bit of water. Cover the dish and microwave on high for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the turkey is heated through.

Baking leftover turkey

To reheat leftover turkey in the oven, preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the turkey in a baking dish and cover it with foil. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the turkey is heated through.

Slow cooking a turkey is a great way to enjoy a delicious and moist Thanksgiving dinner. It is also a more hands-off method than roasting, so you can relax and enjoy your holiday without having to worry about constantly checking on the turkey.

What is the best way to slow cook a turkey in the oven?

There are a few different ways to slow cook a turkey in the oven, but the most common method is to roast it in a covered roasting pan at a low temperature (275-300 degrees Fahrenheit) for several hours. This allows the turkey to cook evenly and slowly, resulting in a moist and flavorful bird.

Here are the steps to slow cooking a turkey in the oven

1. Preheat your oven to 275 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Rinse the turkey inside and out and pat it dry with paper towels.
3. Season the turkey with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices.
4. Place the turkey in a large roasting pan, breast-side up.
5. Cover the pan with foil and roast for 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
6. Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Is The Ideal Cooking Time For A Slow-Cooked Turkey?

Answer: The ideal cooking time for a slow-cooked turkey depends on the size of the bird. Typically, it should be cooked on a low setting for about 6-8 hours for a turkey that weighs around 12-15 pounds. For larger turkeys, the cooking time may need to be extended. The key is to ensure the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.

2. How Can I Keep My Slow-Cooked Turkey Moist?

Answer: To keep your slow-cooked turkey moist, make sure to brine it beforehand, which helps to lock in moisture. During cooking, place the turkey breast-side down in the cooker, and baste it periodically with its own juices or a seasoned broth. Keeping the lid closed as much as possible also helps retain moisture.

3. Can I Add Vegetables And Herbs To The Slow Cooker With The Turkey?

Answer: Yes, adding vegetables and herbs to the slow cooker with the turkey not only enhances the flavor but also creates a delicious and aromatic side dish. Common additions include onions, carrots, celery, garlic, rosemary, thyme, and sage. Place these under and around the turkey for the best results.

4. What Are The Benefits Of Slow-Cooking A Turkey For Thanksgiving?

Answer: Slow-cooking a turkey offers several benefits: it yields a more tender and flavorful bird, requires less hands-on time than traditional roasting, and frees up oven space for other dishes. The slow-cooking process also allows for better infusion of herbs and spices, enhancing the overall taste.

5. How Do I Know When The Turkey Is Fully Cooked?

Answer: To determine if the turkey is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The turkey is done when the thickest part of the thigh and the breast reaches at least 165°F. Make sure not to touch any bones with the thermometer, as this can give a false reading.

Final Word

Slow-cooking a turkey for Thanksgiving presents a convenient and flavorful alternative to traditional roasting methods. This approach not only ensures a moist and tender turkey but also infuses it with the rich flavors of herbs and spices.

The low and slow cooking process is ideal for busy cooks, as it requires minimal attention and frees up oven space for preparing other dishes. Additionally, incorporating vegetables and aromatics into the slow cooker transforms the turkey into a complete, savory meal, enhancing the overall dining experience.

The key to a successful slow-cooked turkey lies in careful preparation and temperature monitoring. Brining the turkey beforehand, cooking it breast-side down, and regular basting are crucial steps for retaining moisture.

Most importantly, using a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F is essential for both food safety and optimal taste. Embracing this method for your Thanksgiving dinner promises a stress-free cooking experience and a deliciously memorable meal.

Author Profile

Mike Thompson
Mike Thompson
Hello, fellow turkey enthusiasts! I'm Mike Thompson, a proud resident of the picturesque state of Missouri, renowned for its thriving turkey population and favorable hunting conditions. For over a decade, I've roamed the woods, valleys, and peaks of our beautiful state, learning every nook, cranny, and secret that turkey hunting has to offer. My track record? Well, let's just say I've bagged more turkeys than there are days in November, and each hunt has added a story to my ever-growing book of experiences.

However, as much as I love the thrill of the hunt, what truly fuels my passion is the joy of sharing my knowledge with others. That's why I created this platform. This site is not just a testament to my journey but a beacon for all those who are looking to embark on their own turkey hunting adventures. Whether you're a beginner eager to get started or a seasoned pro seeking advanced tips, you'll find a wealth of information here.

From understanding turkey behavior, tracking techniques, and the best equipment to use, to the do's and don'ts of turkey hunting, this site is a comprehensive guide to all things turkey. So, strap on your boots, pick up your gear, and let's embark on a journey together into the world of turkey hunting. Welcome to my site, and happy hunting!