Slow Cooker Spiced Cranberry Turkey Stew Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For a deeper flavor profile, consider lightly searing the turkey cubes in a pan before adding them to the slow cooker, although this is optional and not strictly necessary. If you choose to sear, ensure you do not cook the turkey through, as it will finish in the slow cooker. This extra step adds a nice golden color and a bit of caramelization to the meat.

If you find the sauce is too thin after the cooking time is complete, you can remove the lid for the final thirty minutes of cooking. This allows some of the excess moisture to evaporate, resulting in a thicker, more concentrated sauce. Be sure to monitor the stew closely during this time to prevent the bottom from scorching or the turkey from becoming dry.

Variations

• Savory Herb Twist: Add a tablespoon of fresh chopped rosemary and thyme to the slow cooker along with the seasoning packet. This variation enhances the herbal notes and adds a fresh, aromatic dimension to the finished stew.
• Spiced Apple Addition: Incorporate one peeled and chopped Granny Smith apple along with the butternut squash. The tartness of the apple complements the cranberry sauce perfectly and adds a nice textural contrast to the tender turkey.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure the stew is cooled properly before refrigerating to maintain food safety.

Freezer

Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating thoroughly.

Reheat

Reheat on the stovetop over low heat until steaming, or microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Allow any leftovers to cool to room temperature for no more than two hours before transferring them to an airtight container. Properly stored in the refrigerator, the stew will maintain its quality for up to three days.

When storing, try to keep the meat and vegetables submerged in the sauce to prevent them from drying out. Label the container with the date so you can keep track of its freshness and ensure it is consumed within the recommended timeframe for the best taste.

This dish is excellent for making ahead of time as the flavors tend to meld even better after sitting in the refrigerator overnight. Prepare the dish as instructed, let it cool completely, and then store it in the fridge.

When you are ready to eat, simply reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave. This makes it a perfect option for meal prepping your lunches or dinners for the upcoming week, ensuring you always have a comforting meal ready at a moment's notice.

Serving ideas

Serve this stew hot in shallow bowls to showcase the vibrant colors of the squash and the glossy cranberry glaze. It pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad to balance the richness of the turkey.

The sweetness of the cranberry makes it a particularly festive dish, suitable for both casual family dinners and more special occasions during the cooler months of the year.

For a complete meal, you can serve the stew over a bed of fluffy quinoa, brown rice, or creamy mashed potatoes. These sides help to soak up the delicious, tangy sauce created by the cranberry and poultry seasoning.

Garnish with a few fresh herbs if you have them on hand to add a pop of color, though the dish is perfectly flavorful and satisfying on its own without any additional toppings.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Slow Cooker Spiced Cranberry Turkey Stew

Prep 10 minCook 4 hRest 5 minTotal 4 h 15 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 1 lb raw turkey breast, cubed
• 2 cups butternut squash, cubed
• 1 packet poultry seasoning
• 1 cup whole berry cranberry sauce

Instructions

1. Place the cubed raw turkey breast into the bottom of the slow cooker insert. Distribute the cubed butternut squash evenly over the top of the turkey pieces to ensure even cooking throughout the process.
2. Sprinkle the entire packet of poultry seasoning over the turkey and squash mixture. Spoon the whole berry cranberry sauce over the ingredients, ensuring it covers the top layer to allow the juices to meld during cooking.
3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 hours until the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, let the stew rest for 5 minutes before serving in warm bowls.

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

320

Protein

35 g

Carbohydrates

32 g

Fat

5 g

Fiber

4.5 g

Sugar

18 g

Sodium

450 mg

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