This Crockpot Turkey Tenderloin recipe is a delicious and easy dish that is perfect for the holiday season. Tender turkey slow-cooked in a creamy sauce that is full of savory flavor, you cant go wrong!
Cooking turkey tenderloin in a slow cooker is a great hands-off way to enjoy delicious juicy white meat anytime. Compared to cooking a whole turkey tenderloins are quicker, easier, and feed just a few people – perfect for smaller gatherings.
When using a slow cooker low and slow is key for keeping turkey tenderloin unbelievably moist tender, and infused with flavor. Here’s a complete guide to slow cooker turkey tenderloin including timing, temperatures, recipe ideas, and pro tips for juicy meat.
What is Turkey Tenderloin?
Turkey tenderloin refers to the tender muscle on the inner part of a turkey breast. It’s a long, thin piece of boneless, skinless white meat that comes from the area right next to the breastbone.
Tenderloin is the most tender part of the whole turkey breast since it doesn’t get as much exercise as the outer breast muscles. This makes it perfect for slow cooking. It stays incredibly moist and tender.
You can find turkey tenderloins packaged on their own under brands like Jennie-O or Butterball, normally in packs of two tenderloins.
Benefits of Cooking Tenderloin in a Slow Cooker
There are a few key benefits to using a slow cooker for turkey tenderloin
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Tender and juicy meat – The low, gradual heat prevents overcooking and keeps the tenderloin incredibly moist and tender.
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Infused with flavor – As it cooks, the tenderloin absorbs flavors from the surrounding sauce or seasoning.
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Hands-off cooking – Just throw it in the morning and dinner cooks itself. No need to watch the oven.
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Perfect portions – Tenderloins feed about 2-4 people – great for smaller gatherings.
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Lean and healthy – It’s a lean cut that provides a good protein boost without too much fat.
How Long Does Turkey Tenderloin Take in a Slow Cooker?
Cooking time can vary a bit based on the size and shape of your slow cooker. But in general, plan on 3-4 hours on LOW.
For a 1.5 lb package of two tenderloins, start checking temperature after 3 hours, then continue cooking if needed until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
The most foolproof way to test doneness is using a meat thermometer. This prevents over or undercooking.
Be sure to insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the tenderloin and don’t let it touch any bones.
Step-by-Step Recipe
This simple recipe results in tender, juicy turkey tenderloin with amazing flavor:
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs turkey tenderloin
- 1⁄2 cup chicken broth
- 1⁄4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- Garlic, thyme, pepper
Directions:
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Combine broth, soy sauce, mustard, maple syrup, vinegar, garlic, thyme in the slow cooker
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Add turkey tenderloins and coat both sides
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Cook on LOW for 3-4 hours until 165°F internal temperature
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Let rest 10 minutes before slicing
The sweet and tangy sauce compliments the savory turkey wonderfully. And the slow cooker does all the work!
Flavor Variations
Once you have the basic method down, there are endless flavor options to mix up your turkey tenderloin:
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Cranberry mustard
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Fresh herb rubs
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Chili maple
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BBQ sauce
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Gravy flavors
Get creative with spices, sauces, and seasonings! The tenderloin soaks up any flavors added.
Helpful Tips for Moist Tenderloin
Follow these tips for the juiciest slow cooker turkey tenderloin:
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Use a thermometer and cook to 165°F
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Cook on LOW only – high heat dries it out
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Don’t lift the lid while cooking
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Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing
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Store leftovers in broth or sauce to reheat
Serving Suggestions
Juicy tenderloin pairs well with lots of sides:
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Mashed potatoes and gravy
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Rice or pasta
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Roasted veggies
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Cranberry sauce
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Biscuits or rolls
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Stuffing or dressing
Get creative with different cuisines! The tenderloin is very versatile.
With the right slow cooker technique, turkey tenderloin cooks up incredibly moist and flavorful.Cook on LOW for 3-4 hours until 165°F internal temperature. Letting it rest before slicing and storing leftovers properly ensures it stays juicy.
Flavor it simply with broth or get creative with sauces and rubs. Serve with classic holiday sides or mix up the flavors.
Slow cooker turkey tenderloin is perfect for easy weeknight dinners or small holiday gatherings. Enjoy!
What makes this recipe irresistible
If you ask me, this recipe is a great alternative to the traditional oven-roasted turkey. Not only is it super easy to make, but its also a great option when you need to save a little space in your oven for your favorite side dishes! I mean, they are the best part of the holiday meal, right?
Frequently asked questions (FAQ’s)
A tenderloin is a piece of the breast that is typically found in the middle of the breast bone, between the two breasts. Its the most tender part of the turkey.
While using a thermometer is the safest way to test the doneness. However, you can also tell that its done by if its tender and no longer pink inside. You can also pierce it with a fork and if the juices run clear, its likely done.
Turkey Tenderloin in Crock Pot
FAQ
How long can you cook in a slow cooker?
You may wonder how long can you leave a slow cooker on low for? Well, the recommendation is a maximum of 8 hours on a low heat for most slow cookers.Apr 9, 2024
Is turkey tenderloin the same as turkey breast?
Turkey tenderloin is a smaller, leaner, and more tender cut from the inside of the turkey breast, while turkey breast refers to the entire breast, which is larger and can include bones and skin. Both are lean, but I find the tenderloin to be so much more tender.
Does meat get more tender the longer it cooks in a slow cooker?
Yes, meat often comes out more tender when cooked in a slow cooker. This is due to several factors: Low and Slow Cooking: Slow cookers operate at low temperatures for extended periods, allowing collagen in tougher cuts of meat to break down into gelatin. This process makes the meat more tender and flavorful.
Should turkey breast be up or down in the crockpot?
For an even more moist and tender turkey, cook with the breast side down. Just be prepared that you won’t really be able to slice the turkey this way; it will just fall off the bone. The presentation isn’t great with this method, but the meat is super moist.
How long to cook Turkey Tenderloin in crock pot?
How long to cook turkey tenderloin in the crock pot – I recommend cooking turkey tenderloin for about 3 hours on high in a slow cooker. Since turkey tenderloin is a lean white meat, it is best to err on the shorter side of the cooking range because lean meats can get tough or chewy when cooked too long in a slow cooker.
How long does a Turkey Tenderloin take to cook?
Expect the turkey tenderloin to cook for 3-4 hours (cooking time will vary depending on slow cooker). If cooking on high heat, it should take about 2 1/2 hours. If cooking on low, it will be closer to 4 hours. Pair this main dish of juicy turkey tenderloins with its favorite side dish: creamy garlic mashed potatoes and turkey gravy!
How to cook a Turkey Tenderloin in a slow cooker?
Mix the spices for the meat (herb seasoning, onion powder, smoked paprika) in a small bowl. Place turkey tenderloin and all the marinade contents to the slow cooker. Sprinkle the tops of the turkey tenderloin with the spices. Slow cook on low for about 3-4 hours (or until the center of the meat is at 165 degrees per your meat thermometer).
How long do you cook a Turkey in a slow cooker?
In a large bowl stir together cream of chicken soup, onion soup mix, and chicken broth. Pour soup mixture of the turkey. Cover the slow cooker with lid and cook on high for 4 hours or low for 6-8 hours. Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
How do you cook Tenderloin in a crock pot?
Place the tenderloins in a gallon-sized Ziploc bag with the marinade. Close the bag and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, (or up to 6 hours), to allow the flavors to infuse with the poultry. Add poultry and marinade to the slow cooker. Pour broth over meat, then place the lid on your crock pot.
How do you cook a thawed Turkey Tenderloin in the crockpot?
Step 1: Roughly chop the carrots and onion and mince the garlic. Step 2: Season the thawed turkey breast tenderloin with paprika, dill, thyme, oregano, sage, salt, and pepper. Place turkey tenderloin into the crockpot. Step 3: Pour the chicken stock over the turkey tenderloins. Step 4: Add the garlic, onions, and carrots to the crockpot.