Are you tired of slaving away in the kitchen on holidays, trying to get the perfect turkey on the table? Look no further! Cooking a whole turkey in a slow cooker is a game-changer for home cooks of all levels. Not only is it incredibly easy, but it also results in a deliciously moist and tender bird that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
The Benefits of Slow Cooking a Whole Turkey
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of cooking a whole turkey in a slow cooker, let’s talk about the benefits of this method. Here are just a few reasons why you should consider slow cooking your next turkey:
- Hands-off cooking: One of the best things about slow cooking a whole turkey is that it’s incredibly hands-off. Simply season the bird, place it in the slow cooker, and let the machine do the work for you.
- Moist and tender meat: Slow cooking a whole turkey results in incredibly moist and tender meat. The low heat and moisture of the slow cooker help to break down the connective tissues in the meat, resulting in a bird that’s fall-apart tender.
- Easy to serve: Cooking a whole turkey in a slow cooker makes it easy to serve a crowd. Simply carve the bird and serve it with your favorite sides and condiments.
Choosing the Right Slow Cooker
Before you can start cooking a whole turkey in a slow cooker, you need to make sure you have the right equipment. Here are a few things to consider when choosing a slow cooker for cooking a whole turkey:
- Size: Look for a slow cooker that’s large enough to hold a whole turkey. A good rule of thumb is to choose a slow cooker that’s at least 6 quarts in size.
- Shape: A slow cooker with a oval or rectangular shape is ideal for cooking a whole turkey. These shapes allow for better air circulation and make it easier to fit the bird in the cooker.
- Features: Consider a slow cooker with features like programmable timers, temperature control, and automatic shut-off. These features make it easy to cook a whole turkey to perfection.
Recommended Slow Cookers for Cooking a Whole Turkey
Here are a few slow cookers that are well-suited for cooking a whole turkey:
- Crock-Pot 7-Quart Oval Slow Cooker
- Hamilton Beach 7-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker
- KitchenAid 6-Quart Slow Cooker
Preparing the Turkey
Before you can start cooking the turkey, you need to prepare it. Here are the steps to follow:
- Thaw the turkey: Make sure the turkey is completely thawed before cooking. You can thaw the turkey in the refrigerator or in cold water.
- Remove the giblets: Remove the giblets and neck from the turkey cavity. Rinse the turkey inside and out with cold water, then pat it dry with paper towels.
- Season the turkey: Rub the turkey all over with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices.
Recommended Seasonings for a Whole Turkey
Here are a few seasoning blends that are well-suited for a whole turkey:
- Classic herb blend: Mix together 2 tablespoons of dried thyme, 1 tablespoon of dried sage, 1 tablespoon of paprika, and 1 tablespoon of garlic powder.
- Spicy blend: Mix together 1 tablespoon of chili powder, 1 tablespoon of ground cumin, 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika, and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar.
Cooking the Turkey
Now that the turkey is prepared, it’s time to cook it. Here are the steps to follow:
- Place the turkey in the slow cooker: Place the turkey in the slow cooker, breast side up.
- Add aromatics: Add some aromatics like onion, carrot, and celery to the slow cooker. These will add flavor to the turkey as it cooks.
- Cook the turkey: Cook the turkey on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours.
Recommended Cooking Times for a Whole Turkey
Here are some recommended cooking times for a whole turkey in a slow cooker:
| Turkey Size | Cooking Time (Low) | Cooking Time (High) |
| — | — | — |
| 4-6 pounds | 6-8 hours | 3-4 hours |
| 6-8 pounds | 8-10 hours | 4-6 hours |
| 8-10 pounds | 10-12 hours | 6-8 hours |
Checking the Turkey’s Temperature
It’s essential to check the turkey’s temperature to ensure that it’s cooked to a safe internal temperature. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a meat thermometer: Use a meat thermometer to check the turkey’s internal temperature. The temperature should read at least 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast and 180°F (82°C) in the thigh.
- Check the temperature in multiple places: Check the temperature in multiple places, including the breast, thigh, and wing.
Letting the Turkey Rest
Once the turkey is cooked, it’s essential to let it rest before carving. Here’s why:
- Redistributes the juices: Letting the turkey rest allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and juicy bird.
- Easier to carve: Letting the turkey rest makes it easier to carve, as the meat is more relaxed and easier to slice.
Recommended Resting Time for a Whole Turkey
Here are some recommended resting times for a whole turkey:
- 30 minutes to 1 hour: Let the turkey rest for 30 minutes to 1 hour before carving.
Carving and Serving the Turkey
Once the turkey has rested, it’s time to carve and serve. Here are the steps to follow:
- Carve the turkey: Carve the turkey into slices, using a sharp knife and a carving fork.
- Serve with your favorite sides: Serve the turkey with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, stuffing, and cranberry sauce.
Recommended Sides for a Whole Turkey
Here are a few side dishes that are well-suited for a whole turkey:
- Mashed potatoes: A classic side dish that pairs perfectly with turkey.
- Stuffing: A savory side dish that’s made with bread, vegetables, and seasonings.
- Cranberry sauce: A sweet and tangy side dish that’s made with cranberries, sugar, and water.
By following these steps and tips, you can cook a delicious and moist whole turkey in a slow cooker. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a weeknight dinner, this method is sure to impress. So why not give it a try and see the difference for yourself?
What size slow cooker do I need to cook a whole turkey?
To cook a whole turkey in a slow cooker, you’ll need a large capacity slow cooker. A 6-quart or larger slow cooker is recommended, as it will provide enough space for the turkey to cook evenly. If you have a smaller slow cooker, you may need to consider cooking a smaller turkey or cutting the turkey into smaller pieces before cooking.
When choosing a slow cooker, also consider the shape of the cooker. A slow cooker with a round or oval shape will work better for cooking a whole turkey than one with a square shape. This is because the round or oval shape will allow for better air circulation and even cooking.
How do I prepare the turkey for slow cooking?
To prepare the turkey for slow cooking, start by removing the giblets and neck from the cavity. Rinse the turkey under cold water, then pat it dry with paper towels. Season the turkey as desired, using your favorite herbs and spices. You can also rub the turkey with oil or butter to help keep it moist during cooking.
Next, stuff the turkey loosely with your choice of aromatics, such as onion, carrot, and celery. You can also add some herbs and spices to the cavity for extra flavor. Make sure not to overstuff the turkey, as this can affect the cooking time and evenness of cooking.
How long does it take to cook a whole turkey in a slow cooker?
The cooking time for a whole turkey in a slow cooker will depend on the size of the turkey and the temperature of the slow cooker. Generally, a 4-6 pound turkey will take around 6-8 hours to cook on low, while a larger turkey may take 8-10 hours. It’s always best to use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
It’s also important to note that the turkey will continue to cook a bit after it’s removed from the slow cooker, so it’s best to check the temperature and let it rest for 30 minutes before carving. This will help the juices to redistribute and the turkey to stay moist.
Can I cook a frozen turkey in a slow cooker?
It’s not recommended to cook a frozen turkey in a slow cooker. This is because the turkey may not cook evenly, and there’s a risk of foodborne illness. When cooking a frozen turkey, it’s best to thaw it first in the refrigerator or cold water, then cook it in the slow cooker.
If you’re short on time, you can also thaw the turkey quickly by submerging it in cold water. Change the water every 30 minutes to keep it cold, and cook the turkey as soon as it’s thawed. Always wash your hands before and after handling the turkey to prevent cross-contamination.
How do I keep the turkey moist during slow cooking?
To keep the turkey moist during slow cooking, it’s essential to use a low temperature and a long cooking time. This will help to break down the connective tissues in the meat and keep it tender. You can also rub the turkey with oil or butter to help keep it moist, and add some aromatics to the slow cooker for extra flavor.
Another tip is to use a slow cooker liner or a piece of aluminum foil to cover the turkey during cooking. This will help to retain moisture and prevent the turkey from drying out. You can also baste the turkey with its juices every few hours to keep it moist and add extra flavor.
Can I cook a whole turkey in a slow cooker with the skin on?
Yes, you can cook a whole turkey in a slow cooker with the skin on. In fact, cooking the turkey with the skin on can help to keep it moist and add extra flavor. However, keep in mind that the skin may not crisp up as much as it would when roasted in the oven.
To get crispy skin, you can try broiling the turkey for a few minutes after it’s cooked in the slow cooker. This will help to crisp up the skin and add a nice golden brown color. Alternatively, you can remove the skin before cooking the turkey in the slow cooker, and cook it separately in the oven for a crispy texture.
Is it safe to cook a whole turkey in a slow cooker?
Yes, it’s safe to cook a whole turkey in a slow cooker, as long as you follow some basic food safety guidelines. Always wash your hands before and after handling the turkey, and make sure to cook the turkey to a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
It’s also essential to use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey, especially when cooking a whole turkey in a slow cooker. This will ensure that the turkey is cooked evenly and safely. Always let the turkey rest for 30 minutes before carving, and refrigerate or freeze it promptly after cooking to prevent foodborne illness.