thanksgiving dinner slow cooker recipe
The Best thanksgiving dinner slow cooker recipe
What I appreciate most about this recipe is how versatile it is. Sure, it’s perfect for Thanksgiving when you’re juggling a million other dishes, but it’s also great for busy weeknights when you want a home-cooked meal without the fuss. The slow cooker does all the work, and the ingredients are simple, wholesome, and easy to find. Plus, it’s loaded with lean protein, fiber-rich veggies, and just enough herbs to make it feel special without being heavy. My family always goes back for seconds, and I love that it’s a meal we can feel good about eating.
Slow Cooker Thanksgiving Dinner Feast
A hassle-free, all-in-one Thanksgiving dinner made in the slow cooker. Enjoy tender turkey, savory stuffing, and creamy mashed potatoes with minimal effort—perfect for a stress-free holiday meal.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 (6-7 lb) turkey breast, bone-in, skin-on
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp dried thyme
- 1 tbsp dried rosemary
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 6 cups cubed day-old bread (sourdough or cornbread)
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp poultry seasoning
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1½ cups chicken broth
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 3 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- ½ cup milk (or cream)
- ½ cup sour cream
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 2 cups turkey or chicken broth
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Prepare the turkey: Rub the turkey breast with olive oil, then season generously with thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Place in the slow cooker. -
2
Prepare the stuffing: In a large bowl, combine bread cubes, celery, onion, garlic, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir in chicken broth and melted butter until moistened. Spoon the stuffing around the turkey in the slow cooker. -
3
Add potatoes: Place cubed potatoes on top of the stuffing. Pour 1 cup chicken broth over the turkey and potatoes. -
4
Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the turkey reaches 165°F and the potatoes are tender. -
5
Make mashed potatoes: Remove potatoes from the slow cooker and mash with milk, sour cream, butter, salt, and pepper. Stir in Parmesan if using. Keep warm. -
6
Make gravy: Strain the cooking liquid from the slow cooker into a saucepan. Whisk in flour and butter, then simmer until thickened. Season with salt and pepper. -
7
Serve: Slice the turkey and serve with stuffing, mashed potatoes, and gravy.
🔧Equipment
- Slow cooker (6-quart or larger)
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Aluminum foil
- Potato masher
- Whisk
- Small saucepan
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Thanksgiving Dinner Feast Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Thanksgiving Dinner Feast
1. Can I prepare the Thanksgiving dinner in a slow cooker ahead of time?
Yes! Many slow cooker recipes for Thanksgiving dinner can be prepped ahead of time. You can chop vegetables, measure spices, and even assemble the ingredients in the slow cooker insert the night before. Store the insert in the refrigerator and start cooking in the morning. However, avoid adding dairy or fresh herbs until closer to serving time to maintain freshness.
2. How long does it take to cook a full Thanksgiving dinner in a slow cooker?
Cooking times vary depending on the recipe and your slow cooker settings. Generally, a full Thanksgiving dinner (turkey, stuffing, potatoes, etc.) can take 6–8 hours on low or 3–4 hours on high. For best results, follow the specific recipe’s instructions, as some components (like vegetables) may cook faster than others.
3. Can I cook the turkey and sides together in the same slow cooker?
It’s possible, but not always ideal. Turkey (especially whole) takes longer to cook than most sides, so you may need to add sides later to avoid overcooking. For best results, cook the turkey separately and use the slow cooker for sides like mashed potatoes, stuffing, or green bean casserole. If space is limited, prioritize sides that cook at similar temperatures.
4. What size slow cooker do I need for Thanksgiving dinner?
A 6-quart slow cooker is the minimum size for a small gathering (4–6 people), but an 8-quart or larger is better for a full Thanksgiving spread. If cooking multiple dishes, consider using multiple slow cookers or a multi-cooker with separate compartments. For turkey, a 7–8 quart oval-shaped slow cooker works best to fit the bird.
5. How do I keep slow cooker dishes from drying out or getting soggy?
To prevent dryness, avoid overcooking—check dishes 30–60 minutes before the recommended time. For moisture, add a splash of broth or cover with foil. To avoid sogginess (especially in stuffing or potatoes), drain excess liquid before serving or use a slotted spoon. For crispy textures (like roasted veggies), finish dishes in the oven or under the broiler for 5–10 minutes.
