Name: Butterball Crockpot Turkey Breast
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-492741H15M27S
Total time: 7 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3–6 pounds Butterball turkey breast (bone-in or boneless); 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (chopped); 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary (chopped); 1 teaspoon fresh sage (chopped); 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 onion (quartered); 1 cup chicken broth

Looking for a holiday-worthy meal without the hours of prep and oven babysitting? This Butterball Crockpot Turkey Breast delivers rich, juicy flavor with crispy golden edges — all from the slow cooker. Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving for a few or craving a comforting family dinner, this no-fuss recipe brings the essence of a traditional roasted turkey with far less effort.

This turkey breast turns out exceptionally tender, thanks to the low and slow cooking method that locks in moisture and infuses every bite with buttery, herby goodness. It’s the kind of meal that fills your home with cozy aromas and guarantees clean plates all around. Best of all, it frees up your oven for other sides and desserts.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make the perfect Butterball Crockpot Turkey Breast, having the right tools is half the success:

Crockpot/Slow Cooker: This is the heart of the recipe. A 6-quart crockpot works best for even cooking and proper air circulation.
Meat Thermometer: Ensures the turkey reaches the safe internal temp of 165°F without overcooking.
Mixing Bowl: For preparing the herb butter rub.
Small Silicone Basting Brush: Ideal for coating the turkey evenly with seasoning.
Carving Knife: A sharp knife helps slice the cooked turkey breast cleanly without tearing.

Each tool plays a specific role, from ensuring food safety to achieving a visually impressive, flavor-packed result. The crockpot does the heavy lifting, while the supporting tools keep everything precise and mess-free.

Ingredients for the Butterball Crockpot Turkey Breast

Butterball Turkey Breast (bone-in or boneless): The star of the show. Choose a fresh or thawed breast, typically 3 to 6 pounds, for even crockpot cooking.
Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and helps carry the herbs and spices. It creates a golden, crisped finish on the skin.
Garlic (minced): Delivers an aromatic punch and depth of flavor that complements the turkey beautifully.
Fresh Herbs (thyme, rosemary, sage): These herbs infuse the meat with a woodsy, savory essence.
Paprika: Adds subtle smokiness and beautiful color.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings that highlight and balance all the other flavors.
Onion (quartered): Placed under the turkey to add flavor and moisture as it cooks.
Chicken Broth: Keeps the environment moist and flavorful, preventing the turkey from drying out.

How To Make the Butterball Crockpot Turkey Breast

Step 1: Prep the Turkey

Remove any packaging and gravy packet from the turkey breast. Pat dry with paper towels to help the seasoning stick and encourage browning.

Step 2: Make the Herb Butter

In a mixing bowl, combine softened unsalted butter, minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.

Step 3: Season the Turkey

Rub the herb butter mixture all over the turkey breast, including under the skin if possible for deeper flavor. Use a silicone brush or your hands.

Step 4: Layer the Crockpot

Place the quartered onions at the bottom of the crockpot to serve as a base. Pour in the chicken broth.

Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection

Place the seasoned turkey breast on top of the onions. Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or until a meat thermometer reads 165°F at the thickest part.

Step 6: Optional Crisp Finish

For crispy skin, transfer the cooked turkey to a baking sheet and broil for 4–5 minutes until golden.

Step 7: Rest and Carve

Let the turkey rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This keeps the juices locked in for maximum tenderness.

How to Serve and Store This Butterball Crockpot Turkey Breast

Once your turkey breast is tender and beautifully browned, it’s time to bring it to the table. Slice it into thick, juicy portions and spoon over some of the flavorful juices from the crockpot. This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, stuffing, or even a fresh salad. Serve it as a main course for intimate gatherings, Sunday dinners, or a no-stress holiday spread.

For storage, let the turkey cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. It stays fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, place slices in a covered dish with a splash of broth to retain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to cook a Butterball turkey breast in the crockpot?

Typically, a 3 to 6-pound turkey breast takes about 6 to 7 hours on low. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure it hits 165°F.

Can I use a frozen turkey breast?

You need to thaw it first. Cooking from frozen can lead to uneven cooking and food safety issues.

Can I cook vegetables with the turkey in the crockpot?

Absolutely. Add root vegetables like carrots and potatoes under the turkey to soak up flavor and cook evenly.

Do I need to baste the turkey during cooking?

No need! The sealed crockpot traps moisture, keeping the turkey juicy without any basting.

How do I get crispy skin in a crockpot recipe?

For that golden finish, broil the cooked turkey breast in the oven for 4–5 minutes.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, just use about 1/3 the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.

Want More Crockpot Dinner Ideas?

If you’re into slow-cooked comfort meals, you’re going to love what else is simmering on LadyPlate. For a creamy, cheesy option, try the Crockpot Italian Meatball Soup — it’s rich with flavor and so satisfying. Or switch it up with the Creamy Crockpot Mac and Cheese for a gooey side dish everyone fights over.

You could also go the hearty route with Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples as a sweet-savory companion to your turkey, or dive into another poultry classic with Sweet Baby Ray’s Crockpot Chicken — sweet, tangy, and fall-apart tender.

Want something a bit more indulgent? The Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup delivers warm, cheesy goodness in every bite.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

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If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you go for boneless or bone-in? Add your own twist? Leave a comment below and tell me how you served it up. I’m always excited to see your versions.

For more of my daily recipes and easy comfort meals, come follow me on Pinterest @LadyPlate.