Can I use leftover turkey instead of raw turkey?

Yes, you can. If you already have cooked turkey from a previous meal, shred it and add it during the last hour of cooking. That way, it absorbs the cranberry sauce flavor without overcooking.

What if I don’t have cranberry sauce?

You can use fresh or frozen cranberries mixed with a few tablespoons of sugar and orange juice. The flavor will be slightly more tart but still delicious.

Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

Absolutely. The Shredded Turkey Cranberry Crockpot actually tastes even better the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, and reheat it gently before serving.

How can I make it thicker or saucier?

If you want a thicker sauce, let the lid stay off for the last 20 minutes of cooking so the extra liquid can reduce. For a saucier version, add an extra ¼ cup of broth while cooking.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes. Once cooled, store the shredded turkey and sauce in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What’s the best way to serve this dish?

This Shredded Turkey Cranberry Crockpot works beautifully on toasted sandwich rolls, spooned over creamy mashed potatoes, or paired with roasted vegetables for a lighter option.

Shredded Turkey Cranberry Crockpot: The Easiest Cozy Dinner You’ll Love

Name: Shredded Turkey Cranberry Crockpot
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-491909H50M39S
Total time: PT-491909H50M39S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2–3 lbs turkey breasts or thighs; 1 can whole cranberry sauce (14 oz); 1/2 cup turkey or chicken broth; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon rosemary; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; Salt to taste

Description

Sweet, tangy, and savory shredded turkey slow-cooked in a glossy cranberry sauce — the perfect cozy meal that tastes like a holiday dinner any day of the week.

Ingredients

2–3 lbs turkey breasts or thighs

1 can whole cranberry sauce (14 oz)

1/2 cup turkey or chicken broth

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1 tablespoon soy sauce

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1/2 teaspoon rosemary

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Place the turkey breasts or thighs into the crockpot and lightly season with salt and pepper on both sides.

2. In a small bowl, whisk together cranberry sauce, broth, brown sugar, soy sauce, thyme, rosemary, and black pepper until smooth.

3. Pour the mixture over the turkey, coating it evenly.

4. Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours until the turkey is tender and easy to shred.

5. Once cooked, shred the turkey directly in the crockpot using two forks.

6. Stir the shredded meat into the sauce and let it sit on WARM for about 10 minutes so the flavors can soak in.

7. Serve hot on sandwich rolls, over mashed potatoes, or with roasted vegetables.

Notes

This Shredded Turkey Cranberry Crockpot recipe is perfect for holidays or easy weeknight dinners.

You can substitute leftover cooked turkey by adding it during the final hour of cooking.

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

To reheat, warm gently in a pan or microwave with a splash of broth to keep it moist.

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Category: Dinner
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 310
Sugar: 14g
Sodium: 720mg
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 35g
Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: shredded turkey cranberry crockpot, slow cooker turkey, cranberry turkey, easy holiday dinner, crockpot turkey recipe