Turkey is a classic centerpiece for many holiday meals. However, with large gatherings, leftovers are inevitable. Reheating turkey can be tricky – the reheating method needs to be just right to avoid dried-out meat Many wonder, can you reheat turkey in a crock pot? The answer is yes!
A crock pot provides a moist gentle heating environment ideal for reheating turkey without drying it out. In this detailed guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to successfully reheat turkey in a crock pot.
Benefits of Using a Crock Pot to Reheat Turkey
Reheating turkey in a crock pot has several advantages
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Moisture: The slow, indirect heat prevents moisture loss. Broth or water creates steam to keep the turkey tender.
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Flavour: Turkey soaks up seasoned broth, boosting flavour in the reheating process.
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Convenience: Once set up, a crock pot does the work with no monitoring needed.
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Food safety: Turkey reheats fully and evenly, eliminating bacteria concerns.
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Versatility: It accommodates whole birds, slices, or pieces.
Step-by-Step Guide to Reheat Turkey in a Crock Pot
Follow these simple steps for perfect crock pot turkey every time:
1. Prepare the Crock Pot
Make sure your crock pot inner pot is cleaned, dried, and inserted into the heating element properly. Set the temperature to low.
2. Add Liquid
Pour 1-2 cups of broth, water, wine, or other liquid into the bottom of the crock pot. Chicken, turkey, or vegetable broth provides the most flavor.
3. Prepare the Turkey
If reheating a whole turkey, slice or debone it first for more even cooking. For pieces, slice them thinly and evenly for the best results.
4. Add Turkey to the Crock Pot
Place the turkey pieces or whole bird into the crock pot over top of the liquid. Ensure all pieces are submerged.
5. Season (Optional)
For more flavor, sprinkle on herbs, pepper, poultry seasoning, or other spices of your choice.
6. Cover and Cook
Put the lid on and cook on low, allowing 1 hour per pound of turkey.
7. Check Temperature
Use a meat thermometer to verify the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
8. Adjust Time If Needed
If not fully heated after the recommended time, re-cover and continue cooking, checking every 20-30 minutes.
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Once heated through, serve your tender, juicy turkey!
Turkey Reheating Time Chart
For approximate reheating times:
| Turkey Weight | Recommended Time on Low |
|---|---|
| 1 lb | 1 hour |
| 2 lbs | 2 hours |
| 3 lbs | 3 hours |
| 4 lbs | 4 hours |
| 5 lbs | 5 hours |
| 6 lbs | 6 hours |
*Note: Whole birds take slightly longer than sliced or shredded turkey. Always verify 165°F internal temperature.
Tips for the Best Results
Follow these tips when reheating turkey in a crock pot:
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Start with refrigerated or frozen turkey – never room temperature.
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Cut whole birds and large pieces into smaller, evenly-sized portions.
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Use a thermometer to confirm safe internal temperature.
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Add extra liquid if needed to prevent drying out.
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Shredded or diced turkey reheats faster than slices or whole birds.
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Occasionally stir and redistribute turkey for even heating.
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Add mushrooms, onions, or celery for extra flavor and moisture.
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Mix in a little flour or cornstarch to help thicken the broth into gravy.
What to Avoid
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Don’t use a high crock pot setting which can dry out and overcook the turkey.
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Don’t crowd the crock pot too full which prevents proper heat circulation.
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Don’t leave at room temperature for over 2 hours before or after reheating.
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Don’t keep reheated turkey in the crock pot on the warm setting for over 2 hours.
Other Reheating Methods
While a crock pot is ideal, you can also reheat turkey using:
Oven: Bake sliced turkey covered in broth at 350°F until 165°F.
Stovetop: Simmer turkey in broth in a pan on the stove over low heat.
Microwave: Microwave small portions with a splash of water covered, 1-2 minutes per slice.
Storing Leftover Turkey
Properly store remaining reheated turkey:
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Allow to cool slightly before refrigerating.
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Store in shallow airtight containers within 2 hours of cooking.
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Use within 3-4 days, or freeze for later use.
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When freezing, store in air-tight containers or bags up to 2-6 months.
Let It Rest
Once the turkey is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 30 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat and ensures a more flavorful result.
Carving and Storing
Carve the turkey into slices or pieces, depending on your preference. If you’re not planning to serve it immediately, transfer the sliced turkey into an airtight container or ziplock bags, storing it in the refrigerator overnight.