Slow Cooker Whole Turkey
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
15 mins
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Cook Time
7 hrs 5 mins
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Let Rest
15 mins
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Total Time
7 hrs 35 mins
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Servings
8
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Calories
561 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
Slow Cooker Whole Turkey
Description
The recipe centers on preparing an 8-pound whole turkey with a seasoned butter mixture including garlic powder, salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika. The softened butter is rubbed under and over the skin, and the seasoning is sprinkled on top before placing the bird in a slow cooker with water to maintain moisture during cooking.
The turkey cooks on low for 7–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. After slow cooking, it is removed, brushed again with melted butter, and broiled briefly to brown the skin, creating a crisp outer layer while keeping the meat tender and juicy inside.
This method suits cooks looking to simplify turkey preparation by using a slow cooker. It pairs well with traditional holiday sides or can be served as the centerpiece for any festive meal. Letting the turkey rest before slicing ensures juices redistribute for moist results.
Using a meat thermometer is recommended to ensure food safety and proper doneness. Leftovers should be refrigerated in airtight containers and consumed within 5-6 days. The recipe provides a practical way to prepare whole turkey without having to monitor it continuously.
Ingredients
- 8 pound turkey whole, fully thawed
- 1/2 cup butter softened
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 Tablespoon salt
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- Mix together the garlic powder, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning and paprika in a small bowl.
- Rub the softened butter under and on top of the turkey skin.
- Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the turkey on top of the butter.
- Pour the water into the crock pot and place the turkey in the crock pot.
- Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F when the thermometer is inserted into the thickest part of the turkey.
- Carefully remove the turkey from the crock pot and place it on a baking sheet or roasting pan.
- Melt the remaining butter mixture and use a basting brush to brush it on the outside of the turkey.
- Broil the turkey for 5-10 minutes to brown the turkey.
- Remove from the oven. Let the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes and then it’s ready to slice, serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to verify the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before removing from the slow cooker.
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container, consuming within 5 to 6 days for best quality.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 8Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 561 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 561kcal | 28% |
| Carbohydrates | 1g | 0% |
| Protein | 70g | 140% |
| Fat | 30g | 46% |
| Saturated Fat | 12g | 60% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 5g | 29% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 9g | 45% |
| Trans Fat | 1g | 50% |
| Cholesterol | 262mg | 87% |
| Sodium | 1326mg | 55% |
| Potassium | 754mg | 16% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 0.3g | 1% |
| Vitamin A | 792IU | 16% |
| Vitamin C | 0.02mg | 0% |
| Calcium | 51mg | 5% |
| Iron | 3mg | 17% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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