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 servings
Ingredients: 1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds); 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 onion, quartered; 2 carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 cups fresh cranberries; 1 cup sugar; 1 cup orange juice; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Highlighted under: Celebration Recipes

Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze is a festive dish that combines the savory flavor of turkey with a sweet and tangy cranberry sauce, perfect for holiday gatherings.

Created by

Gillian Sykes

Last updated on 2025-12-30T21:34:34.702Z

This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze recipe is a family favorite during the holidays. The juicy turkey is enhanced by a vibrant glaze made from fresh cranberries, adding a beautiful pop of color and flavor to your festive table.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Juicy turkey infused with a flavorful cranberry glaze
Perfectly balances sweet and savory for a delightful taste
Impressive centerpiece for your holiday celebrations

A Festive Favorite

Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze is not just a dish; it's a celebration on a platter. This recipe captures the essence of the holidays, offering a perfect blend of flavors that appeal to everyone at the table. The juicy turkey paired with the vibrant cranberry glaze creates a stunning visual and flavor experience that elevates any festive gathering.

This dish is not only about taste; it's also about creating lasting memories. Imagine the aroma wafting through your home as the turkey roasts, filling the air with the anticipation of a delicious meal. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any family gathering, this turkey will undoubtedly become a cherished tradition.

Perfect Pairings

Complementing your Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze is easy with the right side dishes. Consider serving classic stuffing, creamy mashed potatoes, or roasted seasonal vegetables to enhance the meal. The sweet and tangy notes of the cranberry glaze harmonize beautifully with savory sides, creating a well-rounded dining experience.

Don't forget about dessert! A rich pumpkin pie or a light apple tart can provide a satisfying end to your feast. Pairing these dishes with a glass of spiced cider or a full-bodied red wine will also enhance the flavors of your holiday meal.

Leftover Magic

One of the best parts of a holiday turkey is the leftovers. After the initial feast, the possibilities are endless! Shred the turkey for sandwiches, toss it into salads, or incorporate it into soups for hearty meals in the days that follow. The cranberry glaze can be used as a spread or marinade, adding a delightful twist to your leftover dishes.

Storing your leftovers properly is crucial for maintaining freshness. Make sure to refrigerate the turkey and glaze promptly, and consume them within three to four days. You can also freeze portions for later, ensuring that the joy of your holiday feast lasts well beyond the celebrations.

Ingredients

For the Turkey

1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 onion, quartered
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
4 cups chicken broth

For the Cranberry Glaze

2 cups fresh cranberries
1 cup sugar
1 cup orange juice
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Prepare the Turkey

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Rinse the turkey under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Rub olive oil all over the turkey and season generously with salt and pepper. Stuff the cavity with onion, carrots, and celery.

Roast the Turkey

Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan. Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the pan. Roast the turkey, basting it every 30 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), about 3 to 3.5 hours.

Make the Cranberry Glaze

While the turkey is roasting, prepare the cranberry glaze. In a saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10-15 minutes.

Glaze the Turkey

During the last 30 minutes of roasting, brush the turkey with the cranberry glaze. Return to the oven and finish roasting until the glaze is caramelized and the turkey is fully cooked.

Rest and Serve

Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 20-30 minutes before carving. Serve with the remaining cranberry glaze on the side.

Enjoy your beautifully roasted turkey with family and friends!

Pro Tips

To ensure the turkey remains moist, consider using a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.

Cooking Tips for Success

To ensure your Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze turns out perfectly, remember to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. This is the best way to guarantee that your turkey is cooked safely and remains juicy. The ideal temperature for cooked turkey is 165°F (74°C), so keep an eye on it as it roasts.

Basting the turkey regularly not only adds flavor but also helps keep the meat moist. Use a baster or a spoon to pour the pan juices over the turkey every 30 minutes. This step is essential for achieving that golden-brown skin and succulent meat everyone loves.

Flavor Enhancements

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or sage to the cavity of the turkey before roasting. These herbs will infuse the meat with aromatic goodness as it cooks, complementing the cranberry glaze beautifully.

If you're feeling adventurous, you can experiment with different citrus juices in the glaze. Grapefruit or pineapple juice can provide a unique twist, elevating the traditional cranberry flavor to new heights. Don't hesitate to customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cranberries?

Yes, you can use frozen cranberries. Just ensure to thaw them before cooking.

→ What should I serve with roasted turkey?

Classic sides include mashed potatoes, stuffing, and green bean casserole.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

→ Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the cranberry glaze up to a week in advance and store it in the fridge.