The holidays are a time for enjoying delicious home-cooked meals with family and friends The star of many holiday tables is often a beautifully roasted turkey But after the big meal is over, you’re often left with ample leftover turkey. Reheating and serving those leftovers can sometimes be a challenge. Many people wonder – can you reheat turkey in a crockpot?
While slow cookers are not generally recommended for reheating cooked foods using a crockpot to reheat turkey does have some benefits if done carefully. In this detailed guide we’ll explore the pros and cons of reheating turkey in a crockpot and provide tips for doing it successfully.
Why Use a Crockpot for Leftover Turkey?
There are a few potential advantages to using a slow cooker to reheat turkey:
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Moisture: The moist heat environment of a crockpot can help prevent leftover turkey from drying out, which is a common issue.
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Flavor: Cooking the turkey in broth or gravy adds extra flavor as it reheats.
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Convenience: You can start reheating the turkey early in the day and have it ready for a meal without monitoring it.
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Food safety: When used properly, the consistent low heat helps avoid the growth of bacteria.
So while not traditional, a crockpot can potentially provide delicious and hassle-free leftover turkey if you follow the right methods.
Potential Drawbacks to Reheating Turkey in a Crockpot
However, there are also some drawbacks to consider:
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Uneven heating: Crockpots can sometimes leave spots that are over or undercooked.
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Lower heat: The low heat may not get the turkey hot enough quickly to prevent bacterial growth.
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Food safety issues: Contamination can occur if not handled properly before and after reheating.
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Time: It typically takes several hours to fully reheat a whole turkey or large portions.
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Texture changes: The prolonged heat can make the turkey mushy.
So proper handling is required to mitigate these risks when reheating turkey in a slow cooker.
Tips for Safely Reheating Turkey in a Crockpot
Follow these tips to safely reheat leftover turkey in a crockpot:
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Refrigerate properly: Store turkey in shallow containers in the fridge within 2 hours of cooking. Don’t pack it too tightly.
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Prep the turkey: Slice or shred the turkey so it reheats faster and more evenly. For a whole turkey, remove the bone and slice the meat.
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Preheat the crock: Turn it on 15-30 minutes before adding turkey to minimize time in the temperature danger zone.
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Use broth: Chicken or turkey broth provides moisture and flavor. Use about 1 cup per pound of turkey.
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Cook on low: High heat can dry out and overcook the turkey. Use the low setting only.
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Stir occasionally: Check and stir the turkey every 45 minutes for even cooking.
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Cook thoroughly: Cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Then serve immediately.
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Discard leftovers: Don’t reheat the reheated turkey again. Discard any uneaten portions.
By following these safe handling tips, you can reduce the risks and enjoy delicious reheated turkey from your crockpot.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Reheating Turkey in a Crockpot
Here is a simple step-by-step guide to reheating turkey in a crockpot:
Prep the Crockpot
Make sure your crockpot insert and lid are cleaned thoroughly before each use.
Prep the Turkey
- Cut cooked turkey into smaller slices or shred with two forks to help it reheat faster.
- For whole small birds like chicken, remove any bones or stuffing first.
- For larger cuts, slice the meat off the bones into smaller portions.
Add Broth
Place the turkey pieces into the crockpot insert. Add chicken or turkey broth until the turkey is partially submerged, about 1 cup per pound.
Preheat on Low
Turn the crockpot on low heat for 15-30 minutes before adding the turkey.
Add Turkey and Stir
Gently stir the turkey to distribute it evenly in the hot broth.
Reheat on Low
Cook the turkey on low, stirring every 45 minutes, for 2-4 hours until fully heated to 165°F internally.
Serve Immediately
Once done, serve the hot turkey immediately for maximum safety and quality.
It’s really that easy! Just allow enough time for thorough cooking and follow proper food handling, and your leftover turkey will be delicious heated up in the crockpot.
Frequently Asked Questions About Reheating Turkey in a Crockpot
Here are answers to some common questions about reheating leftover turkey in a slow cooker:
Is it safe to reheat turkey in a crockpot?
It can be safe if proper guidelines are followed. Key tips include refrigerating promptly, preheating the crock, stirring periodically, cooking to the proper internal temperature, and serving immediately.
How long does it take to reheat turkey in a crockpot?
For shredded or sliced turkey, allow 2-4 hours on low heat. For a whole small turkey, plan on 4-6 hours. The time varies based on the amount and size of portions.
Should you add liquid when reheating turkey in the crockpot?
Yes, turkey broth or gravy should be added to prevent drying out and help conduct heat. About 1 cup per pound of turkey is sufficient.
What temperature should reheated turkey reach?
Cook until the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F as checked in multiple spots with a food thermometer.
Can you reheat stuffing in a crockpot?
No, stuffing and other side dishes should be reheated separately from the turkey using recommended methods.
Can I reheat already reheated turkey?
No, only reheat cooked turkey one time. Discard any leftovers after reheating.
The Takeaway on Crockpot Turkey Reheating
While slow cookers are not generally recommended for leftovers, reheating turkey in a crockpot can produce tasty results when proper guidelines are followed. Be sure to refrigerate promptly, use broth for moisture, reheat thoroughly to 165°F, and serve turkey immediately after reheating for food safety.
With careful handling, the crockpot can be a convenient way to enjoy delicious leftover holiday turkey without it drying out. Just allow ample time for the low heat to work its magic!
