Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze

Name: Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 20 min
Yield: 8-10 servings
Ingredients: 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs); 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 onion, quartered; 1 lemon, quartered; Fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, sage); 2 cups fresh cranberries; 1 cup sugar; 1 cup orange juice; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Highlighted under: Family Comfort Food Recipes

Discover the perfect centerpiece for your holiday feast with this Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze. Juicy turkey is elevated by a sweet and tangy cranberry glaze, making it a deliciously festive dish.

Created by

Harriet Bloom

Last updated on 2025-12-30T17:42:34.595Z

This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze is not just a meal; it's a celebration of flavors and traditions. The succulent turkey harmonizes beautifully with the sweet-tart cranberry glaze, creating a dish that will impress your family and friends.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Juicy turkey infused with a sweet and tangy cranberry glaze
A show-stopping dish perfect for holiday gatherings
Simple preparation that yields impressive results

      

Perfect for Any Occasion

This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze is not just for Thanksgiving; it’s a versatile dish that can grace your table for any holiday or family gathering. The beautiful presentation and vibrant colors make it a perfect centerpiece, sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re celebrating Christmas, Easter, or a family reunion, this turkey will elevate your dining experience and create lasting memories.

The combination of juicy turkey and a sweet-tart cranberry glaze creates a harmonious flavor profile that appeals to all palates. It’s a recipe that brings everyone together, making it ideal for celebrations where food plays a central role in the festivities.

Easy Preparation

Preparing a turkey might seem daunting, but this recipe simplifies the process without sacrificing flavor. With just a few steps, you can have a beautifully roasted turkey ready to serve. The use of fresh herbs and a simple glaze enhances the turkey’s natural flavors, requiring minimal effort for maximum impact.

The roasting method ensures that the turkey remains moist and tender while infusing it with delicious flavors. Even if you’re new to cooking turkey, this straightforward approach will help you achieve professional results. Your family and friends will be amazed at how effortless it was!

Serving Suggestions

This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it alongside classic favorites like creamy mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, or a fresh garden salad. The tartness of the cranberry glaze complements savory sides, creating a balanced meal that everyone will love.

Don’t forget to save some of the pan drippings for a rich gravy that can be drizzled over the turkey or mashed potatoes. This adds an extra layer of flavor to your holiday feast, ensuring that every bite is as delicious as the last.

Ingredients

For the Turkey

1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
4 cups chicken broth
1 onion, quartered
1 lemon, quartered
Fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, sage)

For the Cranberry Glaze

2 cups fresh cranberries
1 cup sugar
1 cup orange juice
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Make sure to gather all the ingredients before starting the preparation.

Instructions

Prepare the Turkey

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Rinse the turkey inside and out, then pat dry. Rub the turkey with olive oil, and season generously with salt and pepper. Stuff the cavity with onion, lemon, and fresh herbs.

Roast the Turkey

Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan. Pour chicken broth into the pan, cover with foil, and roast for 2 hours. Remove the foil and roast for an additional hour, basting with pan juices periodically.

Make the Cranberry Glaze

While the turkey is roasting, combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and cinnamon in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes. If desired, mix cornstarch with a little water and add to the glaze to thicken further.

Glaze the Turkey

In the last 30 minutes of roasting, brush the cranberry glaze over the turkey. Continue to roast until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Rest and Serve

Once done, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for at least 20 minutes before carving. Serve with remaining cranberry glaze on the side.

Enjoy your delicious roasted turkey with cranberry glaze!

Tips for the Perfect Roast

To ensure your turkey cooks evenly, let it come to room temperature before roasting. This can take about 30 minutes; it helps the meat cook through without drying out. Additionally, using a meat thermometer is crucial to achieving the perfect doneness. Insert it into the thickest part of the thigh, avoiding the bone, and look for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Basting the turkey with its juices during roasting helps to keep the meat moist and enhances the flavor. If you notice the skin browning too quickly, loosely cover it with foil during the last hour of cooking.

How to Store Leftovers

After the feast, store any leftover turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing the meat. Simply slice the turkey, place it in freezer-safe bags, and it can last for up to three months in the freezer.

When ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat them in the oven at a low temperature to retain moisture. You can also use leftover turkey in a variety of dishes, from sandwiches to soups, making the most of your holiday bird.

Enhancing Your Glaze

Feel free to customize the cranberry glaze to suit your taste! Adding a splash of balsamic vinegar can introduce a delightful depth, while mixing in chopped orange zest brightens the flavors. For those who like a little heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze.

Experimenting with the glaze not only enhances the flavor but also allows you to make the dish your own. Consider trying different fruit juices or sweeteners to create a unique twist on the classic recipe.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen turkey?

Yes, just make sure to allow enough time for it to fully thaw in the refrigerator.

→ How do I know when the turkey is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

→ Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time?

Yes, the cranberry glaze can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ What should I serve with the turkey?

Classic sides include mashed potatoes, green beans, and stuffing.