Crockpot Cranberry Glazed Turkey is a delightful dish that brings together tender turkey legs and a sweet-tangy cranberry glaze. This recipe is perfect for cozy family dinners or festive gatherings, making it a must-try for anyone looking to impress their loved ones. Enjoy the rich flavors and ease of preparation that comes with using a slow cooker, allowing you to savor every moment without the stress of constant monitoring in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Cranberry Glazed Turkey
This easy cranberry glazed turkey recipe is a crowd-pleaser for various reasons. First, it provides a moist and flavorful turkey that melts in your mouth. Second, using a crockpot means you can set it and forget it, making it perfect for busy days. Third, the combination of cranberry sauce and soy sauce creates a unique and delicious flavor profile that’s perfect for Thanksgiving or any family gathering. Additionally, the recipe is gluten-free, making it suitable for different dietary needs. With just a handful of ingredients, this crockpot turkey with cranberry sauce truly stands out among the best crockpot recipes for turkey.
Ingredients for Crockpot Cranberry Glazed Turkey
Gather these items:
- 4 turkey legs (about 2.5 lbs)
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1 medium onion, sliced thinly
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
How to Make Crockpot Cranberry Glazed Turkey Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Rinse the turkey legs under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Trim off any excess fat if necessary.
- Step 2: Rub salt, pepper, and dried thyme evenly over the turkey legs for maximum flavor.
- Step 3: In a bowl, mix together cranberry sauce and soy sauce until smooth.
- Step 4: Place sliced onions at the bottom of the crockpot. Add seasoned turkey legs on top and pour the cranberry sauce mixture over everything.
- Step 5: Cover the crockpot and set it on low for about 6 to 8 hours or high for around 4 hours until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach at least 165°F).
- Step 6: Once cooked through, transfer turkey legs to plates and drizzle with extra sauce.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Crockpot Cranberry Glazed Turkey
Keep these in mind:
- For added flavor, marinate the turkey legs overnight with the cranberry sauce mixture.
- Ensure that the turkey legs are not overcrowded in the crockpot for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature for perfect doneness, ensuring juicy results.
Best Ways to Serve Crockpot Cranberry Glazed Turkey
Pair this crockpot turkey with cranberry sauce with sides like creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it alongside stuffing or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For a festive touch, consider garnishing with fresh herbs or serving with cranberry sauce on the side.
How to Store and Reheat Crockpot Cranberry Glazed Turkey
Store leftover turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or place it back in the crockpot on low until heated through. This method ensures that the turkey remains moist and delicious, making it perfect for meal prep.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crockpot Cranberry Glazed Turkey
What is crockpot cranberry glazed turkey?
This dish involves turkey legs cooked in a crockpot with a flavorful cranberry glaze, resulting in tender and juicy meat that’s perfect for family gatherings.
Can I make crockpot cranberry glazed turkey ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the turkey legs in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. This makes it a great option for holiday meals or busy weeknights.
How do I avoid common mistakes with crockpot cranberry glazed turkey?
To avoid dryness, ensure that you do not overcook the turkey and use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Additionally, using enough sauce is crucial for keeping the turkey moist.
Variations of Crockpot Cranberry Glazed Turkey You Can Try
Consider using chicken thighs instead of turkey legs for a different flavor. You can also add chopped apples or nuts to the cranberry sauce for a unique twist. For a spicier kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. Enjoy experimenting with this flexible recipe!
For more delicious recipes, check out Cranberry Orange Pancakes or Sweet Potato Biscuits. You can also explore Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls for a festive side dish.
For more information on the health benefits of cranberries, visit Healthline.
Print
Crockpot Cranberry Glazed Turkey: A Festive Delight
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Enjoy tender turkey legs coated in a sweet and tangy cranberry glaze, perfect for cozy family dinners or festive gatherings.
Ingredients
- 4 turkey legs (about 2.5 lbs)
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1 medium onion, sliced thinly
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
Instructions
- Rinse the turkey legs under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Trim off any excess fat if necessary.
- Rub salt, pepper, and dried thyme evenly over the turkey legs for maximum flavor.
- In a bowl, mix together cranberry sauce and soy sauce until smooth.
- Place sliced onions at the bottom of the crockpot. Add seasoned turkey legs on top and pour the cranberry sauce mixture over everything.
- Cover the crockpot and set it on low for about 6 to 8 hours or high for around 4 hours until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach at least 165°F).
- Once cooked through, transfer turkey legs to plates and drizzle with extra sauce.
Notes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 to 8 hours on low or 4 hours on high
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 turkey leg
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: Crockpot Cranberry Glazed Turkey








