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Dinner · Part 3 of 3: Tips & recipe card

Crockpot Creamy Sage Turkey Tenderloin Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

A close-up of tender, braised turkey tenderloins in a creamy, herb-flecked sauce.
Prep
Cook
Total
Serves
4
Includes 5 min resting

Tips for success

To achieve a deeper flavor, you can sear the turkey tenderloins in a hot skillet with a little oil for 2-3 minutes per side before placing them in the slow cooker.

This caramelization adds a rich, toasted note to the finished dish that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce, though it is entirely optional.

If you prefer a thicker gravy, remove the cooked turkey from the slow cooker once it hits the target temperature.

Whisk a small amount of cornstarch mixed with cold water into the hot sauce and let it simmer for an additional 10 minutes on high heat until the sauce reaches your desired consistency before returning the turkey to the pot.

Variations

  • Savory Garlic Twist: Add three cloves of minced garlic during the assembly phase. The garlic adds a pungent, aromatic punch that pairs exceptionally well with the earthy sage and creamy mushroom base, creating a more complex flavor profile.
  • Earthy Mushroom Blend: Incorporate one cup of sliced fresh cremini mushrooms along with the onions and celery. The fresh mushrooms add a meaty texture and deepen the overall savory quality of the gravy, making the dish even more hearty.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer
Store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheat
Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave on medium power, stirring occasionally until heated through to 165°F (74°C).

Transfer any leftover turkey and gravy into an airtight container within two hours of cooking. If the food remains at room temperature for longer than two hours, it should be discarded to ensure food safety. Properly stored, the dish will maintain its quality for up to three days in the refrigerator.

This dish is excellent for meal prep, as the flavors often meld and improve after sitting in the refrigerator overnight. You can fully cook the turkey, allow it to cool, and then store it in individual containers.

When ready to eat, simply reheat portions gently until the turkey is warmed through and the sauce reaches a creamy consistency again.

Serving ideas

Serve this creamy turkey over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles to soak up the savory gravy. A side of roasted root vegetables or a crisp, green garden salad provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the creamy mushroom sauce, balancing the meal perfectly for a satisfying dinner.

For a lighter option, consider serving the tenderloin slices with steamed green beans or roasted asparagus. The bright flavor of the vegetables complements the earthy sage notes in the gravy, while the turkey remains the star of the plate.

Ensure each serving includes a generous ladle of the creamy sauce to keep the turkey moist until the very last bite.

Frequently asked questions

Can this recipe be made with turkey breast instead of tenderloins?
Yes, whole turkey breasts can be used, but they will likely require a longer cooking time. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) regardless of the cut used, and adjust the cooking duration based on the thickness of the breast.
Why does the sauce seem to separate after cooking?
Separation can occur if the slow cooker is set to high for too long or if the liquid content is too high. Keep the heat on low for the duration of the cooking process to maintain a stable emulsion and prevent the dairy in the soup from breaking.
Is it possible to overcook turkey in a slow cooker?
Yes, even in a slow cooker, turkey can become dry if cooked for too long. Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at the earliest recommended time to ensure the meat stays juicy and tender, avoiding excessive cooking beyond the 165°F threshold.
Recipe card

Crockpot Creamy Sage Turkey Tenderloin

Prep 10 minCook 4 hRest 5 minTotal 4 h 15 minServes 4
A close-up of tender, braised turkey tenderloins in a creamy, herb-flecked sauce.

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs turkey breast tenderloins
  • 1 cup onion slices
  • 1 cup celery slices
  • 1 tsp dried sage
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 10 oz condensed cream of mushroom soup
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth

Instructions

  1. Place the turkey tenderloins into the slow cooker basin. Scatter the sliced onions and celery over the turkey. Sprinkle the dried sage and thyme evenly over the mixture to ensure the herbs distribute well during the slow cooking process.
  2. Whisk together the condensed cream of mushroom soup and the chicken broth until smooth, then pour the mixture over the turkey and vegetables. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set to low heat. Cook for 4 hours until the turkey is tender.
  3. Verify the turkey is fully cooked by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the tenderloin. The internal temperature must reach 165°F (74°C). Allow the meat to rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing and serving with the creamy gravy.
Contains: gluten, milk, celery

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories
320
Protein
38 g
Carbohydrates
12 g
Fat
13 g
Fiber
1.5 g
Sugar
2 g
Sodium
750 mg
Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.
Recipe by Clara Weller (pen name) · Allquickyrecipes · https://recipes.allquickyrecipes.com/crockpot-creamy-sage-turkey-tenderloin/part-3