How To Cook Rolled Turkey Crown In Slow Cooker [GUIDE]

The rolled turkey crown is an elegant centerpiece for any festive meal or family gathering. Unlike a whole turkey, the crown is more compact, making it ideal for smaller households or when you want a tender, evenly cooked bird without the fuss of carving a full turkey. Slow cooking a rolled turkey crown is a game-changer-it allows the meat to absorb flavors deeply while remaining moist and succulent, all without the constant supervision that roasting in an oven demands. The slow cooker’s gentle, consistent heat is particularly beneficial for lean cuts like turkey breast, which can dry out quickly if overcooked. In this guide, we’ll explore everything from preparation to reheating leftovers, ensuring your rolled turkey crown comes out perfectly every time.

How Long To Cook Rolled Turkey Crown In Slow Cooker

Cooking times for a rolled turkey crown in a slow cooker depend on the size of the bird and the heat setting of your appliance. As a general guideline:

• On Low: 4 to 6 hours for a 1.5-2 kg (3-4 lb) rolled turkey crown.
• On High: 3 to 4 hours for the same size.

It’s important to avoid opening the lid frequently, as each lift can drop the internal temperature and extend cooking time. A slow cooker works by circulating steam around the meat, and maintaining a steady heat is key to achieving tender, juicy results. Larger crowns, closer to 2.5-3 kg (5-6 lb), may require up to 7 hours on low, so always plan ahead.

How To Tell If It Is Done

The most reliable method to check doneness is using a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the crown (usually the center of the breast, avoiding contact with bone). The turkey is safe to eat when the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F).

Other signs include:

• Juices running clear when pierced with a knife or skewer.
• The meat should feel firm but not rubbery.
• The outer surface may appear lightly browned, though slow cookers don’t produce a crisp skin. You can finish under a hot grill or in a preheated oven for 10-15 minutes if you prefer a golden crust.

Avoid relying solely on cooking time, as slow cooker performance varies. A thermometer ensures safety and prevents dryness.

Ingredients Needed

For a flavorful slow-cooked rolled turkey crown, you will need:

• 1 rolled turkey crown (1.5-2.5 kg)
• 2-3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1-2 teaspoons dried herbs (thyme, rosemary, sage)
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2-3 carrots, chopped
• 2-3 celery sticks, chopped
• 250 ml chicken or turkey stock
• Optional: lemon slices, bay leaves, or a splash of white wine for extra depth

These ingredients create a natural flavor base, ensuring the meat stays juicy while infusing aromatic undertones throughout the cooking process.

How To Cook Rolled Turkey Crown In Slow Cooker

1. Prep the turkey: Pat the rolled turkey crown dry with kitchen paper. Rub it with olive oil or butter, then season generously with salt, pepper, and herbs.
2. Prepare vegetables: Layer onion, carrot, and celery at the bottom of the slow cooker. These act as a natural roasting rack and release savory flavors that infuse the meat.
3. Add liquid: Pour stock (and optional wine) over the vegetables. This prevents the turkey from drying out and helps create a rich base for gravy.
4. Place turkey in cooker: Position the turkey crown on top of the vegetables, breast side up.
5. Slow cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F).
6. Optional finishing: For a crispier skin, transfer the turkey to a baking tray and place under a hot grill or in a preheated oven (200°C / 400°F) for 10-15 minutes.
7. Rest: Allow the turkey to rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This helps juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist.

When Things Go Wrong

Even slow cooking, the most forgiving method, can encounter issues:

• Dry turkey: Usually caused by overcooking or insufficient liquid. Always monitor the internal temperature and ensure there’s enough stock at the bottom.
• Undercooked meat: Can occur if your slow cooker heats unevenly. Always use a thermometer to verify doneness.
• Mushy vegetables: Slow cooker vegetables can break down if left too long. Consider adding delicate vegetables like peas or asparagus in the last 30 minutes.
• Flavorless meat: If the turkey tastes bland, it’s often due to under-seasoning or insufficient aromatics. Marinating overnight can help intensify flavors.

Expert Tips

• Butter or oil under the skin: If you can loosen the skin, spreading butter or herb-infused oil beneath it ensures the breast meat stays moist.
• Use a foil sling: Lining the slow cooker with foil makes lifting the turkey easier and prevents sticking.
• Marinate overnight: A simple marinade of herbs, garlic, and olive oil overnight enhances depth of flavor.
• Reserve juices for gravy: After removing the turkey, strain the liquid, skim excess fat, and reduce it for a rich, flavorful gravy.
• Rotate if needed: Some slow cookers have hot spots; rotating the turkey halfway through can improve even cooking.

Can I Do This Without A Slow Cooker?

Yes. A rolled turkey crown can be roasted in the oven using a similar preparation method. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and roast for approximately 20 minutes per 500 g (1 lb) of meat, covering with foil for the first two-thirds to prevent drying. You can also adapt a pressure cooker or Instant Pot, reducing cooking time while retaining moisture.

Reheating Leftovers In Slow Cooker

Leftover turkey can be reheated gently in a slow cooker without drying out:

1. Place sliced turkey and leftover juices or a splash of stock in the slow cooker.
2. Set to low and heat for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally.
3. Avoid high heat, as this can overcook the meat.

This method preserves tenderness and infuses the meat with additional moisture and flavor.

FAQs

What Is A Rolled Turkey Crown And How Is It Different From A Whole Turkey?

A rolled turkey crown is a boneless or partially deboned turkey breast that has been rolled with stuffing or seasoning inside. Unlike a whole turkey, it is smaller, easier to handle, and cooks more evenly, making it ideal for slow cooking.

What Size Of Rolled Turkey Crown Is Suitable For A Slow Cooker?

Choose a rolled turkey crown that fits comfortably in your slow cooker without touching the lid. Typically, crowns between 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) and 2.5 kg (5.5 lbs) work best, allowing heat to circulate evenly.

Should I Defrost The Rolled Turkey Crown Before Slow Cooking?

Yes, always fully thaw a frozen rolled turkey crown in the refrigerator before slow cooking. Cooking from frozen can result in uneven cooking and potential food safety risks.

What Slow Cooker Setting Is Best For Cooking A Rolled Turkey Crown?

Use the low setting for a slow cooker for tender and moist results. Cooking on high is possible, but it may cook the outer layers faster than the center, risking dryness.

How Long Should I Cook A Rolled Turkey Crown In A Slow Cooker?

For a 1.5-2.5 kg (3.3-5.5 lbs) rolled turkey crown, cook on low for 4-6 hours. Always use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F) for safe consumption.

Do I Need To Add Liquid To The Slow Cooker When Cooking A Rolled Turkey Crown?

Yes, adding a small amount of liquid such as chicken stock, water, or white wine helps maintain moisture and creates flavorful drippings. Usually, ½ to 1 cup is sufficient.

Can I Stuff The Rolled Turkey Crown Before Slow Cooking?

Yes, a rolled turkey crown can be pre-stuffed. Ensure the stuffing is prepared safely and cooked thoroughly. Cooking slowly allows the flavors to meld into the meat.

Should I Cover The Turkey Crown In The Slow Cooker?

Yes, cover the turkey crown with the slow cooker lid. This traps heat and moisture, ensuring even cooking and preventing the meat from drying out.

How Do I Make The Skin Crispy On A Rolled Turkey Crown From The Slow Cooker?

Slow cookers do not brown meat well. To achieve crispy skin, transfer the turkey crown to a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for 15-20 minutes after slow cooking, or use a torch or broiler briefly.

How Can I Check If The Rolled Turkey Crown Is Fully Cooked?

Use a digital meat thermometer to measure the thickest part of the turkey crown. The internal temperature should reach at least 75°C (165°F). Ensure the juices run clear and there are no pink areas inside.