If you’re on the hunt for a cozy, comforting dish that practically cooks itself, look no further than this Crock Pot Turkey Tenderloin & Gravy Recipe. It’s the perfect blend of tender turkey simmered slowly in a savory cream of chicken soup and rich turkey gravy, creating a dish packed with flavor and soul-warming goodness. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving an easy weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers juicy turkey and luscious gravy with minimal effort, making dinner time a complete breeze.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Crock Pot Turkey Tenderloin & Gravy Recipe plays a vital role, coming together in a simple yet harmonious way. From the tender turkey that’s the star of the show to the creamy soup and gravy that build deep layers of flavor and a beautiful texture, these essentials are easy to find and straightforward to use.
- Turkey Tenderloins (3 pounds total): Choose fresh, good-quality turkey tenderloins for the best tenderness and juiciness in the final dish.
- Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup (10.5 oz can): This adds a creamy base that keeps the turkey moist and infuses subtle, savory notes.
- Turkey Gravy Mix (2 envelopes): Enhances the richness of the gravy with classic, comforting flavors that perfectly complement the turkey.
- Water or Chicken Broth (½ cup, optional): Use broth for extra depth or water for a lighter sauce—both help create the ideal gravy consistency.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): Simple seasoning to elevate and balance all the flavors beautifully.
How to Make Crock Pot Turkey Tenderloin & Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Turkey
Start by placing the turkey tenderloins directly into your slow cooker. If you love seasoning, sprinkle some salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste for an added layer of flavor. This step sets the foundation for the rich, savory notes that shine through once cooked.
Step 2: Mix Your Creamy Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, turkey gravy mix, and your choice of water or chicken broth if you’re using it. This mixture becomes your luscious gravy that will envelop the turkey with moisture and savory goodness.
Step 3: Combine and Cook Low and Slow
Pour the creamy sauce over the turkey tenderloins in the crock pot, ensuring every inch gets a good coating. Cover the slow cooker and let everything cook on LOW for about 4 to 6 hours. This slow cooking process is what makes the turkey incredibly tender and infused with those rich flavors.
Step 4: Finish and Break Into Bite-Sized Pieces
Once the cooking time is up, take the turkey out of the slow cooker and break the tenderloins into bite-sized pieces using two forks or your hands. Return the pieces to the crock pot, stir gently into the gravy, and you’re ready to serve up some serious comfort food happiness.
How to Serve Crock Pot Turkey Tenderloin & Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or thyme over the top just before serving to add a vibrant pop of color and a delicate herbal note that brightens this hearty dish.
Side Dishes
This turkey tenderloin with gravy pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles that soak up every delicious dribble of gravy. For a lighter touch, steamed green beans or roasted carrots add a lovely crunch and color.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special touch, serve the turkey and gravy over freshly baked biscuits or even stuffing. You can also create a cozy casserole by layering the turkey and gravy mixture over rice or quinoa and topping it with crispy fried onions or shredded cheese, then baking until bubbly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftover turkey tenderloin and gravy into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
This Crock Pot Turkey Tenderloin & Gravy Recipe freezes exceptionally well. Store portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, label them, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready for a cozy meal, simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to keep the turkey tender and avoid drying out the gravy. You can also microwave in short increments, stirring in between, until warmed through for a quick meal fix.
FAQs
Can I use turkey breast instead of tenderloins for this recipe?
Absolutely! Turkey breast works well but may take a little longer to cook, and it’s important to avoid overcooking to keep it juicy and tender in the Crock Pot Turkey Tenderloin & Gravy Recipe.
Is it necessary to add water or chicken broth?
Adding a little water or broth helps thin the gravy to the perfect consistency, but if you prefer a thicker sauce, you can skip this step or adjust the amount to your liking.
Can I add vegetables to the crock pot?
Yes, feel free to add chopped carrots, celery, or potatoes at the start of cooking for a one-pot meal with extra nutrition and flavor.
How do I know when the turkey is fully cooked?
The turkey tenderloins are fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), and the meat is tender enough to shred or break apart easily.
Can I double the recipe for a larger group?
Yes, the recipe scales well. Just make sure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the increased volume for even cooking.
Final Thoughts
This Crock Pot Turkey Tenderloin & Gravy Recipe quickly became one of my go-to comfort meals, especially when I want something that feels special without hours of work. It’s hearty, savory, and undeniably satisfying—trust me, once you try it, it will earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. Give it a whirl and enjoy every bite of tender turkey swimming in that luscious gravy.
Print
Crock Pot Turkey Tenderloin & Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Crock Pot Turkey Tenderloin & Gravy recipe offers a simple and comforting way to prepare tender, flavorful turkey with a creamy, savory gravy. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, the slow cooker does all the work, resulting in juicy turkey that falls apart effortlessly and a rich gravy made from cream of chicken soup and turkey gravy mix.
Ingredients
Turkey
- 2 (1.5-lb) turkey tenderloins (3 pounds total)
Gravy
- 1 (10.5-oz) can Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup
- 2 (0.87-oz) envelopes turkey gravy mix
- ½ cup water or chicken broth (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the turkey: Place the turkey tenderloins into the slow cooker. Optionally season the turkey with salt and pepper to taste for added flavor.
- Mix the gravy: In a bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, turkey gravy mix, and ½ cup water or chicken broth if using, until smooth.
- Cook in slow cooker: Pour the gravy mixture over the turkey tenderloins, cover the crock-pot, and cook on LOW for 4 to 6 hours, allowing the turkey to become tender and fully cooked.
- Serve: Before serving, use two forks to break the turkey tenderloins into bite-sized pieces, mixing it well with the gravy for a delicious meal.
Notes
- Season turkey with salt and pepper based on preference.
- Water can be substituted with chicken broth for a richer gravy flavor.
- Cooking time may vary slightly depending on slow cooker model; ensure turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
- Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles for a complete meal.
