Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze

Name: Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs); Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, quartered; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 cups fresh cranberries; 1 cup sugar; 1/2 cup orange juice; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

Highlighted under: Seasonal Meals

Delight your guests with this succulent Roasted Turkey with a tangy cranberry glaze that brings a festive flair to any table.

Created by

Mirabel Sutton

Last updated on 2025-12-30T20:29:33.980Z

This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze is perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions. The sweet and tart cranberry glaze enhances the rich flavor of the turkey, making it a memorable centerpiece. Enjoy the compliments!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A beautiful presentation that impresses guests
Juicy turkey infused with sweet and tangy flavors
Perfect for holiday celebrations or family dinners

      

The Perfect Holiday Centerpiece

A beautifully roasted turkey is not just a meal; it's the centerpiece of any festive gathering. The golden-brown skin glistening with cranberry glaze will draw your guests’ eyes as soon as they enter the dining room. The aroma of the turkey roasting in the oven fills the air with anticipation, making every moment leading up to the feast feel special.

When served at holiday celebrations, this Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze becomes a conversation starter. Guests will be eager to snap photos and share their excitement, making your dinner memorable. This dish not only fills bellies but also warms hearts, creating lasting memories around the table.

Flavor Profile that Dazzles

The combination of savory and sweet in this recipe creates a flavor profile that is truly irresistible. The juicy turkey is enhanced by the tangy cranberry glaze, which balances beautifully with the richness of the meat. Each bite offers a delightful contrast between the succulent turkey and the bright, zesty notes of the glaze.

Using fresh cranberries ensures that your glaze bursts with natural flavor, while the addition of orange juice adds a refreshing citrusy twist. The warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg round out the taste, making this dish a sensory delight that celebrates the flavors of the season.

Tips for the Best Roasted Turkey

To achieve the best results, start with a high-quality turkey. Choose a fresh or organic bird if possible, as they tend to have more flavor and moisture. Don't forget to let your turkey come to room temperature before roasting; this helps it cook evenly and stay juicy.

Basting your turkey regularly with the pan juices is key to achieving that mouthwatering golden skin. This not only adds flavor but also keeps the turkey moist throughout the cooking process. Invest in a good meat thermometer to ensure your turkey is perfectly cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Ingredients

For the Turkey

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

For the Cranberry Glaze

2 cups fresh cranberries
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup orange juice
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Turkey

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Pat the turkey dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper. Rub olive oil all over the turkey, including under the skin. Place the onion quarters inside the cavity.

Roast the Turkey

Place the turkey breast side up on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan. Pour chicken broth into the bottom of the pan. Roast for about 2 hours, basting every 30 minutes with the pan juices.

Make the Cranberry Glaze

In a saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook over medium heat until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Glaze the Turkey

During the last 30 minutes of roasting, brush the turkey with the cranberry glaze. Continue roasting until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Rest and Serve

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

Enjoy your delicious roasted turkey with family and friends!

Pro Tips

For a crispier skin, increase the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) in the last 15 minutes of roasting.

Serving Suggestions

This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it alongside creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a tangy green salad to complement the rich flavors of the turkey. A classic stuffing can also enhance the meal, adding a comforting touch.

Don't forget to offer your guests a selection of sauces and gravies. A rich turkey gravy or a refreshing apple cider reduction can elevate the dish further, allowing everyone to customize their plates to their liking.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover turkey can be a delicious treat on its own or transformed into new meals. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions for up to three months, ensuring you label them for easy identification later.

When reheating, avoid drying out the turkey by using low heat and adding a bit of broth or water to keep it moist. Cover the turkey with foil to retain moisture, and heat until just warmed through. This will help preserve the flavor and texture of your delicious roasted turkey.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen turkey?

Yes, just ensure to fully thaw it in the refrigerator for several days before cooking.

→ What sides go well with this turkey?

Mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, and cranberry sauce are great options.

→ Can I prepare the glaze in advance?

Absolutely! You can make the cranberry glaze up to 3 days ahead and store it in the refrigerator.

→ How do I know when the turkey is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the turkey.