Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze
Highlighted under: Spring Seasonal Food Ideas
Discover the perfect centerpiece for your holiday feast with this Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze. Juicy turkey enveloped in a sweet and tangy glaze will impress your guests and elevate your festive meals.
This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze is a classic dish that brings warmth and joy to any holiday table. The combination of savory turkey and a sweet cranberry glaze creates a delightful balance that everyone will love.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Juicy turkey with a perfectly caramelized skin
- Sweet and tangy cranberry glaze adds a festive touch
- A show-stopping centerpiece for your holiday gatherings
Ingredients
For the Turkey
- 1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 onion, quartered
- 1 lemon, quartered
- Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, sage)
For the Cranberry Glaze
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Rinse the turkey under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Rub the turkey with olive oil, salt, and pepper, inside and out. Stuff the cavity with onion, lemon, and fresh herbs.
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, balsamic vinegar, and cinnamon. Cook until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Place the turkey on a rack in a roasting pan. Brush half of the cranberry glaze over the turkey. Roast in the preheated oven for about 3 hours, basting every 30 minutes with the remaining glaze, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for at least 20 minutes before carving. Serve with the remaining cranberry glaze on the side.
Enjoy your delicious roasted turkey with family and friends!
Tips for Success
One of the most important tips for roasting a turkey is to monitor the cooking time closely. A general rule of thumb is to allow 13 to 15 minutes of cooking time per pound at 325°F (165°C). Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
Another useful tip is to cover the turkey with aluminum foil during the first half of the roasting process. This helps prevent over-browning and allows the turkey to cook evenly. Remove the foil during the final hour to achieve that beautiful golden-brown skin.
Storage and Leftovers
After your holiday feast, store leftover turkey properly to ensure it remains fresh and flavorful. Shred or slice the remaining turkey meat and place it in airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days or in the freezer for up to six months. Just make sure to label and date the containers for easy reference.
Leftover turkey can be repurposed in a variety of delicious ways. Consider using it in salads, sandwiches, or soups. The cranberry glaze can also be used to brighten up leftover dishes, adding a festive touch long after the holiday celebrations have ended.
Questions About Recipes
→ How long should I cook a turkey per pound?
You should cook the turkey for about 13-15 minutes per pound at 325°F (165°C).
→ Can I use frozen cranberries for the glaze?
Yes, frozen cranberries can be used, just make sure to thaw them before cooking.
→ What can I serve with the roasted turkey?
Traditional sides include mashed potatoes, stuffing, and green beans.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze
Discover the perfect centerpiece for your holiday feast with this Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze. Juicy turkey enveloped in a sweet and tangy glaze will impress your guests and elevate your festive meals.
Created by: Tabitha Collins
Recipe Type: Spring Seasonal Food Ideas
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
For the Turkey
- 1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 onion, quartered
- 1 lemon, quartered
- Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, sage)
For the Cranberry Glaze
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Rinse the turkey under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Rub the turkey with olive oil, salt, and pepper, inside and out. Stuff the cavity with onion, lemon, and fresh herbs.
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, balsamic vinegar, and cinnamon. Cook until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Place the turkey on a rack in a roasting pan. Brush half of the cranberry glaze over the turkey. Roast in the preheated oven for about 3 hours, basting every 30 minutes with the remaining glaze, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for at least 20 minutes before carving. Serve with the remaining cranberry glaze on the side.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 95mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 20g
- Protein: 30g