Slow Cooker Apricot Turkey Tenderloin Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

To add a bit of texture to the dish, you can garnish the finished turkey with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives right before serving. The brightness of fresh herbs provides a nice contrast to the sweet and savory glaze.

If you prefer a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes added with the onion seasoning can provide a subtle kick that complements the sweetness of the apricots.

If you find that your slow cooker tends to run hot, check the turkey about 30 minutes before the end of the suggested time. Knowing your specific equipment's quirks is the best way to ensure perfect results.

If you have extra sauce left in the pot, serve it on the side in a small bowl so guests can drizzle more over their turkey or their choice of side dish, such as mashed potatoes or rice.

Variations

• Spicy Apricot Turkey: Add two tablespoons of your favorite hot sauce or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the apricot preserves before pouring it over the turkey for a spicy, sweet, and savory variation.
• Herb-Infused Turkey: Stir in one tablespoon of dried rosemary or thyme with the onion soup mix to add an earthy, aromatic layer that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the apricot.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheat

Reheat gently in a covered pan over low heat with a splash of water until steaming hot, or microwave on medium power.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When storing, try to include as much of the sauce as possible, as this will help keep the turkey moist when you reheat it. Always ensure the leftover turkey has cooled to room temperature, which should take no more than 2 hours, before placing it into the refrigerator to maintain food safety standards.

This dish is excellent for making ahead, as the flavors often deepen after sitting in the refrigerator overnight. You can prepare the entire recipe and store it, then gently reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.

It makes a convenient option for meal prepping, providing a quick and flavorful protein source that you can easily incorporate into lunches or dinners throughout the busy work week.

Serving ideas

Serve this apricot turkey tenderloin alongside simple, complementary sides that do not compete with the sweet and savory glaze. Steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or a crisp garden salad work well to balance the richness of the dish.

For a heartier meal, consider serving the turkey over a bed of fluffy white rice, quinoa, or creamy mashed potatoes, which will help soak up the delicious apricot sauce.

When plating, slice the tenderloin into thick medallions to showcase the moist interior and the glossy coating of the glaze. Arrange the slices attractively on a warm platter and spoon the remaining sauce from the slow cooker over the top. Providing a few extra spoonfuls of the warm sauce on the side ensures that every bite remains flavorful and satisfying for everyone at the table.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Slow Cooker Apricot Turkey Tenderloin

Prep 5 minCook 4 hRest 5 minTotal 4 h 10 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 2 lb turkey tenderloins
• 1 packet onion soup seasoning
• 1/2 cup apricot preserves
• 1/2 cup French dressing

Instructions

1. Place the turkey tenderloins into the ceramic insert of your slow cooker. Sprinkle the onion soup seasoning evenly over the top of the turkey. Ensure the turkey is arranged in a single layer to promote even cooking throughout the process.
2. Spoon the apricot preserves over the seasoned turkey tenderloins. Pour the French dressing over the top, coating the meat thoroughly. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for 4 hours, or until the turkey is fully cooked through.
3. Check the internal temperature of the turkey with a meat thermometer. Ensure it reaches at least 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part. Once cooked, remove the turkey to a cutting board, let it rest for 5 minutes, then serve with the sauce from the pot.

Contains: gluten, mustard

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

320

Protein

35 g

Carbohydrates

28 g

Fat

6 g

Fiber

1 g

Sugar

22 g

Sodium

650 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.