Slow Cooker Turkey Marsala: 5 Amazing Hours to Tender Bliss

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Slow Cooker Turkey Marsala has become a true family favorite in my home, especially on those busy weeknights when I crave something comforting and delicious without the fuss. I still remember the first time I experimented with making Marsala in the slow cooker; the aroma of garlic, mushrooms, and that rich Marsala wine filled my kitchen, promising a meal that tasted like it took hours, but only required minimal effort. This easy turkey Marsala slow cooker recipe delivers incredibly tender turkey breasts swimming in a velvety, savory sauce that makes for fantastic dinner ideas slow cooker turkey Marsala. It’s pure magic how the slow cooking transforms simple ingredients into such a gourmet experience. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Turkey Marsala

I know you’ll absolutely adore this recipe for so many reasons. It’s truly a game-changer for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike.

• It boasts an incredibly rich and savory flavor profile that tastes gourmet, yet is surprisingly simple to achieve.
• The minimal prep time means you can set it and forget it, letting your slow cooker do all the hard work.
• You’ll get a wonderfully tender turkey Marsala slow cooker dish every single time, thanks to the gentle, long cooking process.
• This recipe is budget-friendly, utilizing economical turkey breast to create a luxurious meal without breaking the bank.
• It’s a fantastic family-friendly option that even picky eaters will enjoy, making dinner stress-free.
• The resulting sauce is a gloriously creamy slow cooker turkey Marsala, perfect for spooning over your favorite sides.
• It’s a healthier alternative to traditional Marsala, using lean turkey and fresh ingredients.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Turkey Marsala

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this incredibly flavorful Slow Cooker Turkey Marsala. I’ve carefully selected each component to ensure the best taste and texture for your dish.

• 2 pounds turkey breast (about 4 to 6 large pieces) – I prefer boneless, skinless breasts for easy slicing.
• Salt and pepper to taste – for seasoning the turkey before browning.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – crucial for getting that beautiful golden-brown sear on the turkey.
• 5 sprigs fresh thyme – fresh herbs really elevate the aroma and flavor of the sauce.
• 1 stalk green onion, sliced – adds a subtle oniony kick and freshness.
• Optional garnish: fresh parsley – for a pop of color and extra herbaceousness at the end.
• 2/3 cup Holland House Marsala Cooking Wine – this is the star for your Marsala wine turkey slow cooker, providing that signature rich, sweet, and nutty flavor.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – essential for a deep, aromatic base.
• 1/2 cup salted chicken stock – adds savory depth and helps thin the sauce.
• 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced – I love how these mushrooms absorb the Marsala flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – for an extra layer of spice.
• 1/8 cup water – used to create a cornstarch slurry.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (adjust as needed for thickness) – this helps thicken the sauce to a perfect consistency.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream – stirred in at the end for a luxurious, creamy finish.

How to Make Slow Cooker Turkey Marsala

Making this dish is incredibly straightforward, letting the slow cooker do most of the work. Follow these simple steps for the best slow cooker turkey Marsala recipe you’ll ever make.

1. Step 1: Start by seasoning both sides of your turkey breast with salt and pepper. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the turkey breasts in the pan and sear for 4-6 minutes until a beautiful golden-brown crust forms on one side. Flip them over and brown the other side. This browning step is crucial for developing deep, rich flavors that will infuse into your finished Slow Cooker Turkey Marsala.
2. Step 2: With the pan still on medium heat, pour in the Marsala cooking wine and add the minced garlic. Let this mixture simmer for just 1-2 minutes, allowing the wine to reduce slightly and the garlic to become wonderfully fragrant. The aroma alone will tell you this is going to be a delicious meal! This reduction intensifies the Marsala flavor for your sauce.
3. Step 3: Now it’s time to assemble everything in your slow cooker. Pour the Marsala wine and garlic mixture from the skillet into the slow cooker. Stir in the salted chicken stock, sliced cremini mushrooms, black pepper, and sliced green onion. Place the browned turkey breasts on top, then tuck the fresh thyme sprigs around them. This is how to make turkey Marsala in a slow cooker with maximum flavor.
4. Step 4: Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on HIGH for 2 hours or on LOW for 5 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the turkey is incredibly tender and cooked through. The slow cooking process ensures that every bite of turkey is juicy and infused with the delicious Marsala sauce.
5. Step 5: Carefully remove the cooked turkey breasts from the slow cooker and set them aside on a plate. In a small bowl, whisk together the water and cornstarch until you have a smooth slurry. Stir this slurry into the simmering broth in the slow cooker. Return the turkey breasts to the slow cooker, cover, and cook on HIGH for an additional 20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
6. Step 6: Once the sauce is perfectly thickened, transfer the turkey breasts to individual serving plates. Stir the heavy cream into the sauce remaining in the slow cooker until it’s smooth and creamy. Spoon this rich, velvety Marsala sauce generously over the turkey. G Garnish with fresh parsley if you like, and serve your exquisite Slow Cooker Turkey Marsala immediately!

Pro Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Turkey Marsala

I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that will truly elevate your Slow Cooker Turkey Marsala from good to absolutely amazing. These simple tips ensure a deeply flavorful and perfectly textured dish every time.

• Always make sure to brown your turkey breasts thoroughly before adding them to the slow cooker. This crucial step locks in flavor and creates a beautiful crust that adds depth to the entire dish.
• Don’t skip the fresh thyme! While dried herbs can work, fresh thyme sprigs infuse the sauce with a brighter, more aromatic essence that truly complements the Marsala.
• For the richest flavor, use a good quality Marsala cooking wine. It makes a noticeable difference in the final taste of your Slow Cooker Turkey Marsala.
• Resist the urge to lift the lid too often during cooking. Each time you peek, heat escapes, and it extends the cooking time, potentially leading to less tender turkey.

What’s the secret to perfect Slow Cooker Turkey Marsala?

The real secret lies in the browning of the turkey and the cornstarch slurry. Searing the turkey creates a rich fond at the bottom of the pan, which then deglazes into the sauce base. This, combined with thickening the sauce at the end, guarantees a luscious, tender turkey Marsala slow cooker with incredible depth of flavor.

Can I make Slow Cooker Turkey Marsala ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and brown the turkey, then assemble all the ingredients in the slow cooker insert, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just add an extra hour to the cooking time if starting from cold to ensure your Slow Cooker Turkey Marsala is cooked through.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Slow Cooker Turkey Marsala?

To avoid common pitfalls, first, don’t overcook the turkey; it can become dry. Stick to the recommended cooking times. Second, don’t add the heavy cream too early; it can curdle if boiled vigorously. Stir it in at the very end for that creamy finish. Finally, ensure your cornstarch slurry is smooth to prevent lumpy sauce in your Slow Cooker Turkey Marsala.

Best Ways to Serve Slow Cooker Turkey Marsala

Once your delicious Slow Cooker Turkey Marsala is ready, the serving possibilities are endless! I love pairing this rich dish with sides that can soak up every last drop of that incredible Marsala sauce. It truly makes for wonderful dinner ideas slow cooker turkey Marsala, whether for a weeknight meal or a special gathering.

For a classic and comforting combination, I highly recommend serving it over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or soft polenta. The potatoes or polenta perfectly absorb the savory, mushroom-infused Marsala sauce, creating a truly satisfying bite. Another fantastic option is to plate it alongside some perfectly cooked pasta, like fettuccine or penne, allowing the pasta to be generously coated in the rich sauce. Don’t forget a side of crusty bread to sop up any leftover sauce – it’s too good to waste!

Nutrition Facts for Slow Cooker Turkey Marsala

I’ve calculated the approximate nutritional values for one serving of this delicious Slow Cooker Turkey Marsala, based on the ingredients used in my recipe. Please remember these are estimates.

• Serving Size: 1 turkey breast with sauce
• Calories: 380
• Protein: 42g
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 420mg
• Cholesterol: 110mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific brands and ingredients used in your Slow Cooker Turkey Marsala.

How to Store and Reheat Slow Cooker Turkey Marsala

One of the best things about this Slow Cooker Turkey Marsala is how well it stores, making it perfect for meal prepping or enjoying delicious leftovers. Proper storage ensures you can savor that incredible flavor for days to come. I always make a little extra for this reason!

First, allow the cooked turkey and the rich slow cooked turkey Marsala sauce to cool completely before storing. Transfer it to airtight containers; this is crucial for maintaining freshness and preventing spoilage. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze your Slow Cooker Turkey Marsala for up to 3 months. I recommend freezing individual portions for easy thawing.

When you’re ready to reheat, simply thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if the sauce seems too thick after reheating. This ensures your Slow Cooker Turkey Marsala tastes just as good as the first day!

Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Turkey Marsala

What is Slow Cooker Turkey Marsala?

Slow Cooker Turkey Marsala is a comforting Italian-American dish featuring tender turkey breast simmered in a rich, savory sauce made with Marsala wine, mushrooms, and often a touch of cream. It’s a simplified version of the classic chicken Marsala, adapted for the convenience of a slow cooker, resulting in incredibly juicy turkey and a deeply flavored sauce with minimal effort.

Why cook turkey Marsala in a slow cooker?

Cooking turkey Marsala in a slow cooker offers several fantastic benefits. Firstly, it’s incredibly convenient, allowing you to “set it and forget it” for hours. This method also guarantees exceptionally tender and moist turkey, as the low and slow heat prevents drying out. Plus, it allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a more complex and delicious sauce than quicker cooking methods. It’s truly an easy turkey Marsala slow cooker recipe.

Can I use chicken instead of turkey for this recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe is very versatile. If you prefer, you can easily substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for the turkey. The cooking times will remain similar, and you’ll still achieve a wonderfully tender and flavorful dish, making it a great slow cooker chicken Marsala alternative.

What kind of Marsala wine should I use?

For this Slow Cooker Turkey Marsala, I recommend using a dry Marsala cooking wine, which is readily available in most grocery stores. While a sweet Marsala can be used, it will result in a sweeter sauce. If you have access to true Italian Marsala wine, a dry (secco) variety would be ideal for the most authentic flavor.

Variations of Slow Cooker Turkey Marsala You Can Try

While my original Slow Cooker Turkey Marsala recipe is a guaranteed winner, don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with variations! These modifications can cater to different dietary needs or simply introduce new flavors to your favorite dish.

For a truly healthy slow cooker turkey Marsala, consider adding extra vegetables. Beyond mushrooms, bell peppers, spinach, or even chopped carrots can be stirred in during the last hour of cooking. This boosts nutrients and adds vibrant color. If you’re looking for a slow cooker chicken Marsala alternative, simply swap the turkey breast for boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts; the cooking time will be very similar, and the result just as delicious. For a dairy-free version of this Slow Cooker Turkey Marsala, you can use full-fat coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a rich, albeit slightly different, creamy texture. You can also experiment with different mushroom varieties, like shiitake or oyster mushrooms, for a more complex earthy flavor in your Slow Cooker Turkey Marsala.

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