Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze
Highlighted under: Summer Seasonal Food Recipes
Experience the perfect holiday centerpiece with this succulent roasted turkey glazed with a sweet and tangy cranberry sauce.
This roasted turkey with cranberry glaze is a classic holiday dish that will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds. The combination of juicy turkey and a sweet-tart glaze makes it a must-try!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Juicy and flavorful turkey that's perfectly roasted
- Sweet and tangy cranberry glaze that adds a festive touch
- A stunning centerpiece for any holiday table
Ingredients
For the Turkey
- 1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 onion, quartered
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1 cup chicken broth
For the Cranberry Glaze
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before you start.
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Rub the turkey with olive oil, and season generously with salt and pepper. Stuff the cavity with onion and garlic, then place it in a roasting pan.
Pour chicken broth into the bottom of the roasting pan. Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for approximately 2.5 hours, basting every 30 minutes with the pan juices.
While the turkey is roasting, combine cranberry sauce, orange juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the mixture is smooth and simmer for 10 minutes.
During the last 30 minutes of roasting, brush the cranberry glaze over the turkey. Continue roasting until the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 20 minutes before carving. Serve with the remaining cranberry glaze on the side.
Enjoy your delicious roasted turkey with cranberry glaze!
Leftover Ideas
After the holiday feast, you may find yourself with leftover turkey. Don’t let it go to waste! Shred the meat and use it in a variety of dishes, such as turkey sandwiches, salads, or even a comforting turkey pot pie. The possibilities are endless, and leftovers can be just as delicious as the main event.
Consider making a hearty turkey soup by simmering the bones with vegetables and herbs. This not only maximizes the use of your turkey but also provides a warming meal for those chilly post-holiday days. With a little creativity, your turkey leftovers can shine in new and exciting ways.
Storage Tips
To ensure your leftover turkey remains fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Wrap the turkey tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. Properly stored, it can last for up to six months in the freezer.
When you're ready to enjoy your frozen turkey, thaw it in the refrigerator for 24 hours per 5 pounds before reheating. This slow thawing process helps maintain the meat's texture and flavor, ensuring that it tastes just as good as it did on the day it was served.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I prepare the turkey the night before?
Yes, you can prep the turkey by seasoning it and refrigerating it overnight. Just let it come to room temperature before roasting.
→ What should I serve with the roasted turkey?
Classic sides include mashed potatoes, stuffing, green beans, and cranberry sauce.
→ How do I know when the turkey is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the turkey.
→ Can I use a frozen turkey?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw it in the refrigerator for several days before cooking.
Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze
Experience the perfect holiday centerpiece with this succulent roasted turkey glazed with a sweet and tangy cranberry sauce.
Created by: Jessica Brown
Recipe Type: Summer Seasonal Food Recipes
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
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1 cup chicken broth
For the Cranberry Glaze
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Rub the turkey with olive oil, and season generously with salt and pepper. Stuff the cavity with onion and garlic, then place it in a roasting pan.
Pour chicken broth into the bottom of the roasting pan. Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for approximately 2.5 hours, basting every 30 minutes with the pan juices.
While the turkey is roasting, combine cranberry sauce, orange juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the mixture is smooth and simmer for 10 minutes.
During the last 30 minutes of roasting, brush the cranberry glaze over the turkey. Continue roasting until the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 20 minutes before carving. Serve with the remaining cranberry glaze on the side.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
- Sodium: 80mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 25g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 35g