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Easy Slow Cooker Creamy Shredded Turkey and Cheese
This easy slow cooker creamy shredded turkey is a comforting, cheesy dish made with tender deli turkey, a rich cream cheese sauce, and savory seasonings. It's an incredibly simple recipe that transforms a few everyday ingredients into a warm, satisfying meal.
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Whether you're looking for an easy sandwich filling, a creamy topping for baked potatoes, or a quick family dinner served over rice, this slow cooker turkey recipe is a delicious option. The gentle heat allows the flavors to blend while the cheese melts into a smooth, savory sauce.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Easy preparation: Just layer the ingredients and let the slow cooker do the work.
- Budget-friendly: Uses simple ingredients available at most grocery stores.
- Rich and creamy: Cream cheese and cheddar create a delicious sauce.
- Versatile: Perfect for sandwiches, wraps, rice, and baked potatoes.
- Family-friendly: Mild, savory flavors everyone can enjoy.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1–2 hours on LOW
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes to 2 hours 10 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Course: Main Course, Dinner
- Cuisine: American-Inspired
- Method: Slow Cooker
Ingredients
- 2 pounds fully cooked deli turkey, thinly sliced and chopped
- 8 ounces cream cheese, cubed
- 1 cup freshly shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Salt, only if needed
- Fresh chopped parsley, optional garnish
How to Make Slow Cooker Creamy Shredded Turkey
Step 1: Prepare the Turkey
Cut the fully cooked deli turkey into thin strips or small pieces. Separate any slices that are stuck together so the sauce can coat the turkey evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Lightly grease the inside of a 4- to 6-quart slow cooker with butter or nonstick cooking spray.
Step 3: Add the Turkey
Place the chopped turkey into the bottom of the slow cooker. Spread it into an even layer.
Step 4: Add the Cream Cheese and Butter
Scatter the cream cheese cubes and small pieces of butter over the turkey.
Step 5: Add the Seasonings
Sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried parsley, and black pepper evenly over the ingredients.
Step 6: Pour in the Broth
Add the chicken broth around the turkey. The liquid helps create a smooth sauce and prevents the mixture from becoming overly thick.
Step 7: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on LOW for approximately 1–2 hours, stirring after the first 45 minutes, until the cream cheese has melted and the turkey is heated through.
Because the deli turkey is already cooked, the goal is to heat it gently rather than cook it for several hours.
Step 8: Add the Cheddar and Sour Cream
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream. Cover for another 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy.
For food safety, the reheated turkey mixture should reach 165°F (74°C).
Step 9: Adjust the Sauce
If the sauce is too thick, add a small splash of warm chicken broth. Taste before adding salt because deli turkey and cheddar can already be salty.
Step 10: Serve Warm
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve over rice, mashed potatoes, or toasted sandwich rolls.
Tips for the Best Creamy Turkey
- Use fully cooked turkey: This recipe is designed for cooked deli turkey, not raw poultry.
- Choose low-sodium ingredients: Deli meats and cheeses can contain plenty of salt.
- Avoid overcooking: Long cooking times can make thin turkey slices dry or rubbery.
- Use softened cream cheese: It melts more easily and produces a smoother sauce.
- Shred your own cheddar: Freshly shredded cheese usually melts more smoothly.
- Stir occasionally: This distributes the sauce and helps prevent sticking.
Delicious Recipe Variations
Creamy Turkey and Mushrooms
Add 1 cup of sautéed sliced mushrooms for a delicious earthy flavor.
Spicy Cheesy Turkey
Stir in 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper or a few tablespoons of chopped pickled jalapeños.
Turkey and Broccoli
Add 1 cup of steamed broccoli during the final 15 minutes for a hearty vegetable variation.
Italian-Style Creamy Turkey
Replace the cheddar with shredded mozzarella and add 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning.
What to Serve with Creamy Shredded Turkey
- Toasted sandwich rolls
- Steamed white rice
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Buttered egg noodles
- Baked potatoes
- Roasted green beans
- Fresh garden salad
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator
Transfer leftovers to shallow airtight containers and refrigerate within 2 hours. Store for up to 3–4 days, provided the deli turkey was fresh when the recipe was prepared.
Freezer
Freeze cooled portions for up to 2 months for best quality. Cream cheese sauces may become slightly grainy after thawing.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of broth to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently and heat until the mixture reaches 165°F (74°C).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use leftover roasted turkey?
Yes. Cooked roasted turkey works well. Shred or chop it before adding it to the slow cooker.
Can I use raw turkey in this recipe?
No. This recipe is designed for fully cooked turkey. Raw turkey requires a different cooking method and must reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Can I make this without cream cheese?
You can substitute a thick homemade cheese sauce, although the flavor and texture will be different.
Why is my sauce too thick?
The cheese may have absorbed much of the liquid. Stir in additional warm chicken broth, a tablespoon at a time.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. Chop the turkey and measure the other ingredients in advance. Keep everything refrigerated until you're ready to cook.
Final Thoughts
This easy slow cooker creamy shredded turkey and cheese is a simple, comforting meal made with tender turkey, melted cheese, and savory seasonings.
Serve it in toasted sandwiches or over your favorite side dish for a warm, satisfying family dinner with very little preparation.