Slow Cooker Turkey Tenderloin

The beauty of this Crock Pot Turkey Tenderloin lies in its simplicity and flavor. With a rich blend of herbs and spices, the tenderloin is slow-cooked to juicy perfection and finished with a comforting, homemade gravy. It’s a dish that feels indulgent but requires minimal effort, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or relaxing weekends.

Whether you’re prepping a cozy family dinner or need a healthy alternative to traditional roasts, this slow cooker recipe delivers every time. The gravy made from the pan drippings adds a luscious touch to each slice, pairing beautifully with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or even low-carb sides. Serve it up and watch it disappear!

Full Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs turkey tenderloin

• 1/2 cup chicken broth

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 2 teaspoons garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1/2 teaspoon rosemary

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

• 1 tablespoon cold water

Directions:

1. In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Rub this seasoning mix evenly over the turkey tenderloins.

2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the turkey tenderloins on each side for 2-3 minutes until lightly browned.

3. Place the seared tenderloins into the crock pot. Pour in chicken broth and Worcestershire sauce.

4. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours, or until the internal temperature of the turkey reaches 165°F (74°C).

5. Remove the turkey and let rest. While it rests, make a gravy: mix cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry, then stir into the remaining liquid in the crock pot. Turn the heat to high and cook for 10–15 minutes until thickened.

6. Slice the turkey and serve with the warm herb-infused gravy.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 4 hours | Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
Kcal: 230 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

Slow Cooker Turkey Tenderloin: A Comfort Food Favorite Made Easy

When it comes to flavorful, easy weeknight dinners that don’t sacrifice quality or taste, few recipes deliver as beautifully as slow cooker turkey tenderloin. This dish combines the ease of “set it and forget it” cooking with the warm, savory flavors we crave, especially during cooler months. Turkey tenderloin, known for being lean, tender, and protein-rich, becomes incredibly juicy when cooked low and slow in the crock pot. Add a homemade herb-infused gravy, and you’ve got a satisfying, crowd-pleasing meal with very little hands-on effort.

Turkey tenderloin is a cut often overlooked in favor of more traditional roasts or chicken breasts, but it’s a fantastic option for those wanting something a little different that still feels familiar. It’s naturally low in fat but still tender when prepared properly. This recipe takes advantage of that by sealing in moisture with a quick sear before slow-cooking, then finishing it with a rich, velvety gravy made from the pan juices—capturing every bit of flavor.

Why You Should Be Cooking More Turkey Tenderloin

Most people only think about turkey around the holidays, but incorporating turkey tenderloin into your weekly rotation opens up new doors for healthy, delicious meals. Unlike a whole bird that can take hours to prepare, turkey tenderloins cook quickly—especially when you use a slow cooker to do all the heavy lifting. These tenderloins are boneless, easy to slice, and pair beautifully with a variety of sides, from creamy mashed potatoes to roasted veggies or even a fresh salad.

Health-wise, turkey tenderloin is a smart choice. It’s leaner than many cuts of beef or pork and contains essential nutrients like B vitamins, selenium, zinc, and phosphorus. It’s a great protein source for those following low-carb, gluten-free, or high-protein diets. In this recipe, the use of herbs like thyme and rosemary not only brings a warm, earthy flavor but also adds antioxidant properties and depth to the dish.

The Appeal of Crock Pot Cooking

Slow cooking has long been a favorite for home cooks who want maximum flavor with minimal effort. It’s the perfect solution for busy families, professionals, or anyone who doesn’t want to spend hours standing over a stove. Simply season and sear your turkey, place it in the crock pot with a bit of broth and Worcestershire sauce, and let the appliance take care of the rest.

Using a slow cooker enhances the natural flavors of the meat and helps create an incredibly tender result that’s nearly impossible to overcook. The low, even heat breaks down muscle fibers slowly, making the turkey tender and juicy while absorbing all the flavors from the broth and seasonings. The slow cooking time also ensures a deeply infused herbal aroma that fills your kitchen and signals something truly comforting is on its way.

Making a Delicious Gravy Without Fuss

One of the best parts of this recipe is the quick homemade gravy made from the drippings in the slow cooker. After the turkey is cooked and resting, you simply mix a bit of cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry and stir it into the hot cooking liquid. Within minutes, you have a rich, smooth gravy that tastes like it came from a holiday feast—but with none of the hassle.

This gravy is flavorful enough to be spooned over mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even some buttered egg noodles. If you’re feeling adventurous, try it on open-faced turkey sandwiches for lunch the next day. It’s the kind of sauce that makes everything on your plate a little better.

Perfect for Meal Prep and Leftovers

This turkey tenderloin recipe is ideal for meal prepping. A single batch can yield multiple servings, making it a smart choice for anyone preparing lunches or dinners ahead of time. It stores well in the fridge and reheats beautifully, maintaining its tenderness without drying out.

Leftovers can be repurposed in a variety of creative ways. Slice it thin for sandwiches, chop it into chunks for turkey salad, or toss it into a quick stir-fry with veggies. The herbaceous flavor from the original recipe adds depth to whatever you create next, making it a meal that keeps on giving.

A Year-Round Dinner Staple

While turkey tends to shine most during the fall and holiday seasons, this recipe is excellent all year round. In the summer, pair it with grilled vegetables or a light quinoa salad. In the winter, serve it with creamy mashed potatoes and roasted Brussels sprouts. Its versatility ensures it’s always in season, and it can be adapted to your personal flavor preferences by adjusting the herb mix or adding spices like smoked paprika or chili flakes for a kick.

You can also make this dish feel more festive with a few simple tweaks. Swap out the chicken broth for apple cider and add a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg for a subtle sweetness that works beautifully in colder months. Or, include a splash of white wine in the gravy to elevate the flavor for a dinner party or holiday meal.

Cooking Tips for Success

• Searing Is Key: Taking the time to sear your turkey before slow cooking is what creates a caramelized exterior that locks in flavor and moisture. Don’t skip this step—it’s quick but impactful.

• Use a Meat Thermometer: Always check that your turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. It’s the best way to ensure safety and perfect doneness without overcooking.

• Let It Rest: After slow cooking, rest your turkey for at least 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps every bite moist.

• Customize Your Gravy: Depending on your preferences, you can enrich the gravy with a pat of butter, a splash of cream, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs just before serving.

Serving Suggestions to Complete the Meal

This slow cooker turkey tenderloin pairs well with a range of sides. Here are a few ideas:

• Classic Sides: Mashed potatoes, green beans, stuffing, and cranberry sauce give you that holiday comfort any day of the week.

• Low-Carb Options: Serve with cauliflower mash, steamed broccoli, or roasted zucchini for a lighter plate.

• Fresh and Bright: Add a green salad with vinaigrette and roasted carrots or asparagus for a more modern, balanced meal.

You can also turn it into a sandwich spread with crusty bread and a smear of mayo or cranberry chutney. The leftover gravy acts as the perfect finishing sauce.

Conclusion: An Effortless Way to Elevate Dinner

Crock pot turkey tenderloin is more than just a quick fix; it’s a deeply satisfying, wholesome meal that hits all the right notes—flavor, texture, and convenience. It brings together the comfort of slow-cooked food with the practicality busy households need. Whether you’re a beginner cook looking for a foolproof dinner, or a seasoned home chef wanting a low-effort yet impressive dish, this recipe fits the bill.

With its tender texture, herbaceous aroma, and versatile gravy, this turkey tenderloin is sure to become a repeat favorite. Make it your go-to for weeknights, special occasions, or lazy Sundays when you want a delicious meal without all the work. And with just a few small adjustments, you can keep it feeling new every time you make it.

Let this dish be the reason you cook turkey more than once a year—it deserves a regular spot on your dinner table.