Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze

Name: Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 30 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds); Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 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; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

Highlighted under: Festive Seasonal Food Inspiration

This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze is a festive centerpiece that will impress your guests. The sweet and tart glaze adds a unique flavor to the tender turkey, making it perfect for holiday gatherings.

Created by

Rebecca Turner

Last updated on 2025-12-30T20:07:34.289Z

This recipe for Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze brings together the classic flavors of Thanksgiving in a delightful way. The tartness of the cranberry sauce perfectly complements the savory turkey, creating a dish that's as beautiful as it is delicious.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Juicy turkey infused with a tangy cranberry glaze
A stunning presentation that wows guests
Perfect for holiday feasts or family gatherings

      

The Perfect Holiday Centerpiece

This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze is not just a meal; it's a celebration on your dining table. The vibrant colors of the turkey and the glossy cranberry glaze create a stunning visual that is sure to impress your guests. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any family gathering, this dish will become the star of the show, garnering praise and admiration from everyone at the table.

The combination of flavors in this recipe strikes a perfect balance between savory and sweet. The turkey's natural juiciness is complemented by the tangy cranberry glaze, bringing a delightful twist to a classic dish. This unique flavor profile is bound to elevate your holiday feast and leave everyone asking for seconds.

Easy Preparation and Cooking Tips

Preparing a whole turkey can seem daunting, but it doesn't have to be! With a little planning and these straightforward steps, you can have a perfectly roasted turkey that is succulent and flavorful. Make sure to allow ample time for thawing if you’re using a frozen turkey, as this can take several days in the refrigerator. A well-thawed turkey is essential for even cooking and optimal texture.

Using a roasting rack is crucial for even heat distribution and to prevent the turkey from sitting in its own juices. This will help achieve a beautifully golden skin. Additionally, basting the turkey with the pan juices during cooking will enhance the flavor and moisture, making every bite irresistible.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze, presentation is key. Consider garnishing the platter with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, and add some orange slices for a pop of color. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also complements the flavors of the dish.

Pair your turkey with traditional sides like mashed potatoes, stuffing, and green bean casserole for a classic holiday meal. Don't forget to serve the remaining cranberry glaze on the side; its sweet and tangy flavor makes it a perfect accompaniment to the savory turkey. This will ensure that your guests have the opportunity to enjoy the glaze with every bite.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare the roasted turkey:

For the Turkey

1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
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
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious roasted turkey:

Prepare the Turkey

Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Rinse the turkey and pat it dry. Season the inside and outside with salt and pepper. Rub the turkey with olive oil, and stuff the cavity with the onion, carrots, and celery.

Roast the Turkey

Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan. Pour chicken broth into the pan. Roast in the preheated oven for about 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Make the Cranberry Glaze

While the turkey is roasting, combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes.

Glaze the Turkey

During the last 30 minutes of roasting, brush the cranberry glaze over the turkey. Continue to roast until finished.

Rest and Serve

Once cooked, let the turkey rest for 20 minutes before carving. Serve with additional cranberry glaze on the side.

Enjoy your festive meal!

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I let the turkey rest after cooking? It's important to allow the turkey to rest for at least 20 minutes before carving. This resting period helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and moist turkey.

Can I make the cranberry glaze ahead of time? Absolutely! The cranberry glaze can be prepared a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently on the stove before brushing it on the turkey during the last half hour of roasting.

Storage and Leftover Ideas

If you have leftover turkey, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Shredded turkey can be a great addition to salads, sandwiches, or soups, making it a versatile ingredient for post-holiday meals.

The cranberry glaze also stores well and can be used as a topping for desserts like cheesecake or served alongside breakfast dishes like pancakes or yogurt. This way, you can enjoy the festive flavors long after the holiday meal has ended.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen turkey?

Yes, just ensure it is fully thawed before cooking.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

→ Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the glaze up to a week in advance and refrigerate it.

→ What sides pair well with this turkey?

Consider serving with mashed potatoes, green beans, and stuffing.