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: 8-10 servings
Ingredients: 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs); 4 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 onion, quartered; 2 carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup fresh cranberries; 1 cup sugar; 1/2 cup orange juice; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 tablespoon lemon zest

Highlighted under: Family Seasonal Food Collection

Enjoy a succulent roasted turkey glazed with a sweet and tangy cranberry sauce, perfect for your holiday table.

Created by

Juliet Ashford

Last updated on 2025-12-30T21:21:34.601Z

This roasted turkey is not just a meal; it's a centerpiece that brings family and friends together during festive occasions. The cranberry glaze adds a delightful twist, making it a memorable dish.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Juicy turkey infused with rich flavors
Sweet and tangy cranberry glaze enhances the turkey's taste
A beautiful presentation for holiday gatherings

      

The Perfect Holiday Centerpiece

A roasted turkey is often the centerpiece of holiday feasts, and this recipe elevates it to a new level with a vibrant cranberry glaze. The deep, rich flavors meld beautifully, creating a dish that not only tastes amazing but also looks stunning on your table. As guests gather around, the sight of a perfectly roasted turkey glazed in ruby-red cranberry sauce will surely invite compliments and set the tone for a joyous celebration.

This roasted turkey with cranberry glaze not only impresses visually but also provides a balance of taste that appeals to various palates. The savory notes of the turkey combined with the sweet-tart zing of the cranberry glaze make each bite a delightful experience. It’s a dish that embodies the spirit of togetherness, making it perfect for family gatherings, holiday dinners, or any special occasion.

Tips for a Perfect Roast

To achieve the best results with your roasted turkey, it’s essential to start with a high-quality bird. Choose a fresh turkey, preferably organic or free-range, for a richer flavor and juiciness. Make sure to allow the turkey to come to room temperature before roasting, as this helps it cook more evenly and reduces cooking time.

Basting the turkey every 30 minutes ensures that the meat remains moist and flavorful. You can use the pan juices for basting, which not only adds flavor but helps develop a beautiful golden skin. Additionally, using a meat thermometer is crucial; it eliminates guesswork and guarantees that your turkey reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) without overcooking.

Serving Suggestions

To complement your roasted turkey with cranberry glaze, consider serving it alongside classic sides such as creamy mashed potatoes, savory stuffing, and roasted vegetables. These dishes enhance the meal and provide a variety of flavors and textures that pair beautifully with the turkey.

Don’t forget the cranberry glaze! Serve it on the side in a small bowl for guests to drizzle over their turkey slices. This allows everyone to customize their experience and enjoy that sweet-tangy burst of flavor that defines this dish. For dessert, a pumpkin pie or apple tart will round out your holiday feast perfectly.

Ingredients

For the Turkey

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

For the Cranberry Glaze

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

Make sure to gather all ingredients before starting for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Prepare the Turkey

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

Roast the Turkey

Place the turkey breast-side up on a rack in a roasting pan. Pour chicken broth into the bottom of the pan. Roast for 2.5 to 3 hours, basting every 30 minutes, 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 lemon zest in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 15 minutes. Set aside.

Glaze the Turkey

During the last 30 minutes of roasting, brush the cranberry glaze over the turkey. Return to the oven and continue roasting until golden brown.

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 delicious roasted turkey with cranberry glaze!

Frequently Asked Questions

When it comes to cooking a turkey, one of the most common questions is how long to roast it. A general rule of thumb is to allow 13-15 minutes of cooking time per pound at 325°F (165°C). However, using a meat thermometer will provide the most accurate results, ensuring your turkey is perfectly cooked.

Another frequent inquiry relates to leftovers. After your meal, be sure to store any leftover turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be used in a variety of dishes, from sandwiches to soups, providing delicious meals for days after the holiday feast.

Nutritional Information

This roasted turkey recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. Turkey is a great source of lean protein, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. The cranberry glaze, made with fresh cranberries and orange juice, adds beneficial antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.

When enjoyed in moderation, this dish can fit well into a balanced diet. Pairing it with wholesome sides can further enhance its nutritional value. Just remember to watch portion sizes, especially with the glaze, to keep the meal within your dietary goals.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen turkey?

Yes, just make sure to fully thaw the turkey in the refrigerator before cooking.

→ How do I know when the turkey is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

→ Can I make the cranberry glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely! The glaze can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

→ What can I serve with this turkey?

Traditional sides like mashed potatoes, stuffing, and green beans pair wonderfully.