Rosemarylemon Slow Cooker Turkey Recipe A Convenient And Flavorful Turkey Cooked Slowly With Rosemary And Lemon

Welcome to the world of easy and delicious slow cooker recipes! If you’re tired of spending hours in the kitchen, this article is for you. We know how busy life can get, and we’re here to help. Our Rosemary-Lemon Slow Cooker Turkey Recipe will save you time and effort while still delivering mouth-watering flavors. Say goodbye to boring turkey dinners and hello to a new family favorite.

What Is a Slow Cooker?

A slow cooker, also known as a Crock-Pot, is a kitchen appliance used for long, slow, and low-temperature cooking. It is made up of a heating element inside a ceramic or metal pot, which is then covered with a lid. Slow cookers are specifically designed to cook food slowly over several hours, allowing flavors to develop and meats to tenderize. They are extremely convenient for busy individuals as they can be loaded with ingredients in the morning and left unattended until dinner time. Slow cookers are the perfect tool for preparing dishes such as stews, soups, and roasts.

The true history of the slow cooker dates back to the 1930s when it was invented by Irving Naxon. Inspired by his Jewish grandmother’s traditional slow-cooked meals, he created the “Naxon Beanery All-Purpose Cooker” in 1940. This early version consisted of a metal pot with an electric heating element. Naxon’s invention paved the way for the modern slow cooker, which gained popularity in the 1970s and continues to be a beloved kitchen appliance today.

What Is a Rosemary-Lemon Slow Cooker Turkey?

A rosemary-lemon slow cooker turkey is a delectable and convenient way to prepare a flavorful turkey. This cooking method involves placing a turkey in a slow cooker with rosemary and lemon, allowing it to slowly cook and infuse the meat with delightful fragrances. The slow cooking process ensures a tender and juicy turkey, while the combination of rosemary and lemon adds a refreshing and tangy flavor. The end result is a mouthwatering turkey that is simple to make and perfect for gatherings or special occasions.

I once hosted a Thanksgiving dinner and decided to experiment with making a rosemary-lemon slow cooker turkey for the first time. The scent of rosemary filled the house as the turkey cooked slowly throughout the day. When it was time to serve, the turkey was incredibly moist and bursting with flavor. The blend of rosemary and lemon gave it a unique and delicious taste that my guests couldn’t resist. It was a hit, and now it has become a staple in my holiday cooking repertoire.

How to Prepare the Rosemary-Lemon Slow Cooker Turkey?

To prepare the Rosemary-Lemon Slow Cooker Turkey, follow these steps:

1. Thaw the turkey completely and remove any giblets or neck from the cavity.
2. Rinse the turkey under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together salt, pepper, garlic powder, rosemary, and lemon zest.
4. Rub the turkey with the seasoning mixture, making sure to evenly coat it.
5. Place the turkey in a slow cooker and squeeze the juice of one lemon over it.
6. Add a few sprigs of fresh rosemary and lemon slices to the slow cooker.
7. Cover the slow cooker and cook the turkey on low heat for approximately 8-10 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
8. Once fully cooked, remove the turkey from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.

What Are the Ingredients Needed for the Recipe?

Before we dive into the cooking instructions, let’s first gather all the necessary ingredients for this delicious and convenient slow cooker turkey recipe. You will need a whole turkey, fresh rosemary, lemon, salt and pepper, and garlic. Each of these ingredients plays an essential role in creating the flavorful and tender turkey that will be the star of your next meal. So, let’s make sure we have everything we need before we begin our cooking journey.

1. Whole Turkey

When preparing a whole turkey in a slow cooker, follow these steps:

1. Thaw the turkey completely and remove any giblets.
2. Season the turkey with salt and pepper, both inside and out.
3. Place the turkey in the slow cooker, breast side up.
4. Add any desired herbs or spices, such as rosemary or garlic.
5. Cook the turkey on low heat for 7-8 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. Let the turkey rest for a few minutes before carving and serving.

2. Fresh Rosemary

Fresh rosemary adds a delightful aroma and flavor to the rosemary-lemon slow cooker turkey recipe. This herb has a distinct pine-like fragrance that complements the savory taste of the turkey. To incorporate fresh rosemary, simply remove the leaves from the stem and chop them finely before adding them to the slow cooker. The fragrance of the rosemary will infuse the turkey as it cooks, resulting in a delicious and aromatic dish.

On one occasion, I utilized fresh rosemary from my garden to prepare this recipe, and the turkey was exceptionally flavorful and tender.

3. Lemon

Lemon adds a bright and tangy flavor to the Rosemary-Lemon Slow Cooker Turkey recipe:

1. Squeeze the juice of fresh lemons over the turkey to enhance the citrus flavor.
2. Thinly slice the lemon and tuck the slices into the turkey cavity for additional lemon essence.
3. Place a few lemon slices on top of the turkey before closing the slow cooker lid.
4. The lemon infuses the turkey with its refreshing taste as it cooks slowly.
5. Before serving, garnish the turkey with lemon zest for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

4. Salt and Pepper

To enhance the flavor of the Rosemary-Lemon Slow Cooker Turkey, the recipe calls for the use of salt and pepper. Here are the steps to properly incorporate these ingredients:

1. After preparing the slow cooker and seasoning the turkey, generously sprinkle salt and pepper all over the turkey.
2. Make sure to cover both the exterior and interior of the turkey with the salt and pepper mixture.
3. Rub the salt and pepper into the skin of the turkey, ensuring that it is evenly distributed.
4. For added flavor, you can also sprinkle some salt and pepper inside the cavity of the turkey.
5. Continue with the remaining steps of the recipe to cook the turkey slowly with rosemary and lemon.

By using salt and pepper, you can enhance the taste of the turkey, adding a savory element to the dish. Adjust the amount of salt and pepper according to your personal preference. Enjoy the flavorful Rosemary-Lemon Slow Cooker Turkey!

Garlic? More like garlicked my turkey with flavor!

5. Garlic

Garlic is an essential ingredient in the preparation of a rosemary-lemon slow cooker turkey. Here are the steps to incorporate garlic into the recipe:

1. Prepare the slow cooker.
2. Season the turkey with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Add fresh garlic cloves to the cavity of the turkey.
4. Add minced garlic to the seasoning mixture for extra flavor.
5. Cook the turkey on low heat for several hours, allowing the garlic to infuse into the meat.

Get your slow cooker ready and let the rosemary and lemon work their magic on this turkey – your taste buds will thank you.

What Are the Steps to Prepare the Recipe?

Are you looking for a delicious and convenient turkey recipe? Look no further! This rosemary-lemon slow cooker turkey is a crowd-pleasing dish that requires minimal effort but yields maximum flavor. Let’s take a look at the simple steps needed to prepare this mouthwatering meal. From preparing the slow cooker to cooking the turkey on low heat, we’ll cover all the necessary steps to create a flavorful and tender turkey infused with the aromatic flavors of rosemary and lemon.

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker

To get the slow cooker ready for the Rosemary-Lemon Slow Cooker Turkey, follow these steps:

1. Make sure the slow cooker is clean and in good working condition.
2. Place the slow cooker on a stable surface and plug it in.
3. If needed, adjust the temperature setting to match the recipe.
4. Line the bottom of the slow cooker with a slow cooker liner or parchment paper for easier cleanup.
5. Now, the slow cooker is all set to cook the turkey.

Take the turkey from bland to grand by seasoning it with love and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.

2. Season the Turkey

To properly season the turkey for the rosemary-lemon slow cooker recipe, follow these steps:

1. Thaw the turkey completely in the refrigerator.
2. Rinse the turkey under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together salt, pepper, and minced garlic.
4. Rub the salt, pepper, and garlic mixture all over the turkey, ensuring even coverage.
5. If desired, stuff the turkey cavity with additional herbs and aromatics.
6. Place the seasoned turkey into the slow cooker, breast side up.
7. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set the cooking time and temperature according to the recipe instructions.
8. Allow the turkey to slowly cook, allowing it to absorb the flavors of the rosemary and lemon.
9. Check the internal temperature of the turkey with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches a safe temperature.
10. Once fully cooked, remove the turkey from the slow cooker and let it rest before carving and serving.

This is where the party really gets started – sprinkle in the rosemary and lemon and let the flavors do their slow cooker magic.

3. Add the Rosemary and Lemon

To incorporate rosemary and lemon into the slow cooker turkey, simply follow these steps:

1. After seasoning the turkey, place it in the slow cooker.
2. Take a few sprigs of fresh rosemary and lay them on top of the turkey.
3. Cut a lemon into slices and place them alongside the rosemary on top of the turkey.
4. Close the lid and continue cooking the turkey on low heat according to the recipe instructions.

Pro-tip: For an extra burst of flavor, consider squeezing some lemon juice over the turkey before adding the rosemary and lemon slices. This will enhance the citrusy taste throughout the cooking process.

4. Cook the Turkey on Low Heat

To cook the turkey on low heat in a slow cooker, follow these steps:

1. Prepare the slow cooker by cleaning it and ensuring it is in good working condition.
2. Season the turkey with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
3. Add fresh rosemary and lemon slices to infuse the turkey with aromatic flavors.
4. Place the seasoned turkey into the slow cooker and cover with the lid.
5. Cook the turkey on low heat setting for several hours, allowing it to cook slowly and tenderize.
6. Check the internal temperature of the turkey using a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches a safe temperature of 165°F.
7. Once cooked, carefully remove the turkey from the slow cooker and let it rest before carving and serving.

Cooking the turkey on low heat in a slow cooker helps to retain moisture and results in tender, flavorful meat.

What Are the Benefits of Using a Slow Cooker?

Slow cookers have become a staple in many households due to their convenience and ability to produce flavorful and tender meals. In this section, we will discuss the various benefits of using a slow cooker for your cooking needs. From the convenience of preparing a meal in the morning and coming home to a delicious dinner, to the enhanced flavors and time-saving qualities, we will delve into the advantages of using a slow cooker. Get ready to learn how this kitchen appliance can revolutionize your cooking experience.

1. Convenience

Using a slow cooker offers numerous benefits that make cooking convenient and hassle-free. Here are the steps to demonstrate its convenience:

1. Prepare all the ingredients in the morning.
2. Place them in the slow cooker and set the desired cooking time and temperature.
3. Leave it to cook throughout the day while you go about your activities.
4. Come back to a delicious, tender, and fully cooked meal.

Slow cookers allow you to save time and effort by doing the cooking for you. They also provide flavorful results, as the extended cooking time allows the flavors to develop and meld together. With a slow cooker, you can enjoy a convenient and delicious meal with minimal hands-on time. So, why not give it a try and experience the convenience yourself?

Forget the drama and just let your slow cooker work its magic for a mouthwatering rosemary-lemon turkey that will have everyone licking their plates clean.

2. Flavorful Results

Using a slow cooker for cooking turkey can result in tender and delicious meat with flavorful results. To achieve these results, follow these steps:

1. Season the turkey with salt and pepper.
2. Add aromatic ingredients such as rosemary and lemon to enhance the flavor.
3. Cook the turkey on low heat for several hours to allow the flavors to infuse into the meat.

Slow cooking allows the turkey to cook slowly, keeping it moist and tender while the flavors develop. These flavorful results make slow cooker turkey a tasty and convenient option for any occasion.

3. Time-Saving

Using a slow cooker for cooking turkey can save you time in the kitchen. Here are some steps to prepare a rosemary-lemon slow cooker turkey recipe and make the most of your time:

1. Prepare the slow cooker by lining it with a slow cooker liner or greasing it.
2. Season the turkey with salt, pepper, and garlic, ensuring it is evenly coated.
3. Add fresh rosemary sprigs and lemon slices to the cavity of the turkey for added flavor.
4. Cook the turkey on low heat for several hours, allowing it to slowly cook and become tender.

By using a slow cooker, you can easily set it and forget it, freeing up your time to focus on other tasks. Additionally, cooking the turkey slowly allows the flavors to develop, resulting in a moist and flavorful turkey. Experiment with other variations of slow cooker turkey recipes, such as slow cooker Thanksgiving turkey or slow cooker turkey breast, for more delicious and time-saving options.

Other than this mouth-watering rosemary-lemon turkey, there’s also Thanksgiving, breast, and chili versions to satisfy all your slow cooker turkey cravings.

What Are Other Variations of Slow Cooker Turkey Recipes?

As delicious as the Rosemary-Lemon Slow Cooker Turkey may be, there are other variations of slow cooker turkey recipes that are worth trying. Let’s take a look at three popular options: Slow Cooker Thanksgiving Turkey, Slow Cooker Turkey Breast, and Slow Cooker Turkey Chili. Each one offers a unique twist on the traditional slow cooker turkey, providing a range of flavors and options for different occasions. Let’s dive in and discover the versatility of slow cooker turkey cooking.

1. Slow Cooker Thanksgiving Turkey

Slow Cooker Thanksgiving Turkey is a delicious and convenient option for your holiday meal. Here are the steps to prepare it:

1. Prepare the slow cooker by lining it with a cooking bag for easy cleanup.
2. Season the turkey with salt, pepper, and your favorite Thanksgiving spices.
3. Add the turkey to the slow cooker.
4. Cook the turkey on low heat for several hours, until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
5. Remove the turkey from the slow cooker and let it rest before carving.

Slow Cooker Thanksgiving Turkey offers the benefits of convenience, flavorful results, and time-saving. It’s a fantastic alternative to traditional oven-roasted turkey. Explore other variations like Slow Cooker Turkey Breast or Slow Cooker Turkey Chili for more delicious options!

2. Slow Cooker Turkey Breast

Slow cooker turkey breast is a delicious and convenient alternative to traditional oven-roasted turkey. Here are the steps to prepare it:

1. Start by seasoning the turkey breast with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices.
2. Place the turkey breast in the slow cooker and add broth or other liquid for moisture.
3. Cook the turkey breast on low heat for 6-8 hours or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
4. Once cooked, let the turkey breast rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Using a slow cooker for turkey breast offers several benefits, including tender and juicy meat, hands-off cooking, and a moist environment that locks in flavor. You can also explore other variations of slow cooker turkey recipes like slow cooker Thanksgiving turkey or slow cooker turkey chili. Enjoy the convenience and deliciousness of slow cooker turkey breast for your next meal!

3. Slow Cooker Turkey Chili

Slow cooker turkey chili is a delicious and convenient dish to prepare. Here are the steps to make it:

1. Begin by browning ground turkey in a skillet.
2. Once the turkey is cooked, transfer it to the slow cooker.
3. Add diced onions, garlic, and bell peppers to the slow cooker.
4. Season with chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour in crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, and chicken broth.
6. Cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours.
7. Serve hot with your preferred toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped cilantro.

Pro-tip: For an extra kick, try adding a diced jalapeno pepper to the chili while it’s cooking. Enjoy this flavorful slow cooker turkey chili for a comforting meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Rosemary-Lemon Slow Cooker Turkey Recipe?

The Rosemary-Lemon Slow Cooker Turkey Recipe is a delicious and convenient way to cook turkey using a slow cooker. It involves using rosemary and lemon to add flavor and tenderness to the meat.

What ingredients do I need to make this recipe?

To make this recipe, you will need a whole turkey, rosemary sprigs, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. You can also add in any additional herbs or spices that you prefer.

How long does it take to cook the turkey in a slow cooker?

It typically takes around 6-8 hours to cook a turkey in a slow cooker. However, the cooking time may vary depending on the size of the turkey and the temperature setting on your slow cooker.

Can I use frozen turkey for this recipe?

Yes, you can use a frozen turkey for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it completely before adding it to the slow cooker. It is recommended to thaw the turkey in the refrigerator for 1-2 days prior to cooking.

What are the benefits of using a slow cooker for this recipe?

Using a slow cooker for this recipe allows the turkey to cook slowly and evenly, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meat. It also frees up oven space, making it a convenient option for holiday cooking.

Can I use this recipe for other types of meat?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for other types of meat such as chicken or pork. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly and make sure to use the appropriate seasonings for the specific meat.