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 lbs); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon salt; 1 tablespoon black pepper; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 onion, quartered; 2 carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 4 sprigs fresh thyme; 4 sprigs fresh rosemary; 2 cups fresh cranberries; 1 cup sugar; 1 cup orange juice; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Highlighted under: Holiday Inspiration

Delight your holiday gatherings with a succulent roasted turkey drizzled with a tangy cranberry glaze. This dish is sure to impress your guests and become a festive favorite.

Created by

Kerensa Trelawney

Last updated on 2025-12-30T20:41:34.218Z

This roasted turkey recipe combines the traditional flavors of the holiday season with a sweet and tart cranberry glaze that elevates the dish to new heights. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any special occasion!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Juicy turkey infused with aromatic herbs
Sweet and tangy cranberry glaze adds a unique twist
A show-stopper centerpiece for your holiday table

The Perfect Holiday Dish

When it comes to holiday feasts, a perfectly roasted turkey is often the star of the show. This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze not only delivers on flavor but also brings a festive touch to your table. The combination of juicy turkey and sweet-tart cranberry glaze makes it a dish that everyone will be talking about long after the meal is over.

Pairing tender meat with a vibrant glaze creates a visual and culinary delight. The rich colors of the cranberries against the golden-brown turkey make for an impressive centerpiece. Whether you're hosting a large family gathering or an intimate dinner with friends, this turkey recipe is sure to elevate your holiday celebrations.

Tips for Success

To achieve the best results, it's essential to start with a high-quality turkey. Look for a fresh or properly thawed turkey, as this will ensure even cooking and maximum flavor. Additionally, don't forget to let your turkey come to room temperature before roasting; this helps it cook more evenly.

Marinating the turkey with herbs and spices not only adds depth to the flavor but also keeps the meat moist during roasting. Consider letting your turkey sit in the seasoning for a few hours or overnight for an even more flavorful result. And remember, patience is key; allow the turkey to rest after roasting to lock in those delicious juices.

Ingredients

For the Turkey

1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon salt
1 tablespoon black pepper
2 cups chicken broth
1 onion, quartered
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
4 sprigs fresh thyme
4 sprigs fresh rosemary

For the Cranberry Glaze

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

Make sure to gather all ingredients before starting your cooking process.

Instructions

Prepare the Turkey

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

Roast the Turkey

Place the turkey on a rack in a roasting pan and pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the pan. Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for about 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Make the Cranberry Glaze

While the turkey is roasting, combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes. Set aside.

Glaze the Turkey

In the last 30 minutes of roasting, brush the cranberry glaze over the turkey. Return to the oven and continue roasting until the glaze is caramelized and the turkey is done.

Rest and Serve

Once done, 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 beautifully roasted turkey with family and friends!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, brine the turkey overnight in a saltwater solution before roasting.

Serving Suggestions

This roasted turkey pairs beautifully with traditional sides like stuffing, mashed potatoes, and green bean casserole. The sweet and tangy cranberry glaze complements the savory flavors of these dishes, creating a well-rounded meal that is sure to impress. Don't forget to serve a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a bright contrast on your plate.

For a festive touch, consider garnishing your turkey with fresh herbs or slices of orange and cranberry. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds an aromatic element that will draw your guests in. A well-set table with seasonal decor can elevate the entire dining experience, making your gathering truly memorable.

Storing Leftovers

If you're lucky enough to have leftovers, storing them properly will keep your turkey delicious for days to come. Allow the turkey to cool completely before carving and refrigerating. Store the meat in an airtight container, and it will last up to four days in the fridge. Alternatively, you can freeze portions of turkey for later use; it will maintain its quality for up to six months when properly wrapped.

For a quick meal, consider using leftover turkey in sandwiches, soups, or casseroles. The sweet cranberry glaze can also be repurposed in various dishes, adding a unique flavor that will remind you of your festive feast. With these tips, you can enjoy the flavors of the holiday long after the celebrations are over.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen turkey?

Yes, just ensure it is completely thawed before cooking.

→ How do I know when the turkey is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

→ Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time?

Yes, the cranberry glaze can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

→ What side dishes go well with roasted turkey?

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