Slow Cooker Turkey Breast and Stuffing
Make your holiday dinner easier with this comforting Slow Cooker Turkey Breast and Stuffing! Tender, juicy turkey breast cooks alongside savory stuffing in a creamy, buttery sauce for a cozy meal that tastes like Thanksgiving without all the fuss. It’s perfect for Sunday dinner, a small holiday gathering, or any night you’re craving classic homemade comfort food.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5–6 hours on LOW, depending on the turkey’s thickness
Total Time: Approximately 5 hours 10 minutes to 6 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6
Cooking Method: Slow Cooker
Ingredients
- 3 lbs (1.4 kg) raw boneless turkey breast
- 1 box (6 oz / 170 g) dry stuffing mix
- 1 can (10.5 oz / 298 g) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth
- 4 tablespoons (57 g) unsalted butter, cut into small pats
- Salt and black pepper, to taste, if needed
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme, optional
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley, optional
Instructions
1. Prepare the Slow Cooker
Lightly grease the inside of a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker with cooking spray or a little butter to help prevent sticking.
2. Add the Turkey
Place the raw boneless turkey breast in the center of the slow cooker. If desired, season lightly with black pepper, dried thyme, and parsley. Check the stuffing mix and soup labels before adding extra salt, since both may already contain plenty.
3. Add the Stuffing Mix
Spread the dry stuffing mix around the turkey breast. Keep most of the stuffing beside the turkey rather than tightly packed underneath it. This helps the stuffing cook more evenly.
4. Add the Creamy Sauce
Spoon the condensed cream of chicken soup over the stuffing and partially over the turkey. Slowly pour the chicken broth around the stuffing, distributing it as evenly as possible.
5. Add the Butter
Arrange the butter pats across the top of the stuffing mixture. As everything cooks, the butter melts into the broth and soup, helping create a moist, flavorful stuffing.
6. Slow Cook Until Done
Cover and cook on LOW for approximately 5–6 hours. Cooking time depends on the size and thickness of the turkey breast and the performance of your slow cooker.
Use a food thermometer to check the thickest part of the turkey breast. It must reach 165°F (74°C) for food safety. Check that the stuffing is also thoroughly heated; if it has not reached 165°F, continue cooking until it does.
7. Rest and Serve
Carefully remove the turkey breast and let it rest for about 5–10 minutes before slicing. Gently fluff the stuffing with a fork and stir it into the creamy cooking juices. Slice the turkey and serve it alongside a generous scoop of stuffing.
Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Turkey and Stuffing
- Choose the right turkey: A boneless turkey breast works well for this recipe. If using a frozen turkey breast, thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking.
- Keep the stuffing moist: Distribute the broth evenly, but avoid compressing the stuffing into a dense layer.
- Check early if needed: Slow cookers vary, so start checking the turkey’s internal temperature before the end of the estimated cooking time.
- Avoid lifting the lid: Keeping the lid closed helps maintain a consistent cooking temperature.
- Make it extra flavorful: Add a little dried sage, thyme, or poultry seasoning for a traditional Thanksgiving flavor.
- Let the turkey rest: Resting briefly before slicing helps keep the meat juicy.
What to Serve With Turkey Breast and Stuffing
This comforting meal pairs beautifully with green beans, roasted carrots, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, sweet potato casserole, or a fresh garden salad. For a holiday-inspired plate, add a spoonful of cranberry sauce and your favorite vegetables.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover turkey and stuffing in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours of cooking. Reheat thoroughly to 165°F (74°C), adding a splash of broth to the stuffing if it seems dry.
You can also freeze leftovers in freezer-safe containers for up to 2–3 months for best quality. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use turkey tenderloins instead of turkey breast?
Yes, but tenderloins are smaller and cook faster, so check their temperature early to avoid drying them out.
Can I use homemade stuffing instead of boxed stuffing mix?
Yes, provided it is prepared with suitable ingredients and enough liquid. The texture and cooking time may vary.
Can I cook this on HIGH?
LOW is preferable for this recipe because it gives the turkey time to cook gently. If you need to use HIGH, monitor the internal temperature carefully and make sure the stuffing reaches a safe temperature as well.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes. Chopped carrots, celery, or onions can add flavor. Cut them into small, even pieces so they soften properly during cooking.
Do I need to add extra salt?
Not necessarily. Condensed soup, stuffing mix, and broth can all contain sodium, so taste the finished dish before adding more.
Final Thoughts
Slow Cooker Turkey Breast and Stuffing brings together tender turkey, buttery stuffing, and creamy savory flavors in one easy meal. With just a handful of everyday ingredients and minimal prep, it’s a wonderful way to enjoy Thanksgiving-style comfort food any time of year.