How To Cook A Turkey The Day Before And Reheat In Crock Pot

Preparing a Flavorful Turkey The Day Before

Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and what better way to impress your family and friends than with a perfectly cooked turkey! If you’re looking to make your Thanksgiving preparations a breeze, why not cook your turkey the day before and reheat it in a crock pot? This convenient method will not only save you time on the big day but will also result in a deliciously moist and flavorful bird. Here’s how to do it:

1. Choosing the Right Turkey

When selecting a turkey, make sure to choose one that is not too large. A turkey between 10-12 pounds is ideal for cooking the day before and reheating. This ensures that the turkey will fit comfortably into your crock pot.

2. Prep and Seasoning

Start by properly cleaning the turkey and removing the giblets. Pat the bird dry using paper towels. Next, season the turkey with your favorite herbs, spices, and aromatics. A classic combination is a mixture of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme. Make sure to season both the outside and cavity of the turkey.

3. Slow Roasting the Turkey

Place the seasoned turkey on a rack in a roasting pan. Cover the turkey loosely with aluminum foil and place it in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C). Slow roast the turkey for about 3-4 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Cooking the turkey at a lower temperature will help to ensure that it remains moist and tender.

4. 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.

5. 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.

Reheating in the Crock Pot

On the day of your feast, it’s time to reheat the turkey. Here’s how to do it using a crock pot:

1. Preparing the Crock Pot

Start by greasing the crock pot lightly to prevent the turkey from sticking. Place the sliced turkey into the crock pot, making sure to arrange them evenly.

2. Adding Moisture

To keep the turkey moist during reheating, add some chicken or turkey broth to the crock pot. Pour enough broth to cover the bottom of the pot, but avoid submerging the turkey completely.

3. Reheat on Low Setting

Set the crock pot to the low setting and allow the turkey to gently reheat for 2-3 hours. This slow and steady method will preserve the moisture and flavors of your cooked turkey.

4. Serve and Enjoy!

Once the turkey is heated through, it’s time to serve! Arrange the succulent slices on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Your family and friends won’t believe that you cooked the turkey the day before!

By following these simple steps, you can easily cook a turkey the day before and reheat it in a crock pot, saving time and ensuring a moist and delicious centerpiece for your Thanksgiving dinner. Enjoy!