Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze
Highlighted under: Holiday Kitchen
This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze is a festive centerpiece that combines savory turkey with a sweet and tangy glaze, perfect for holiday gatherings.
This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze recipe is not only delicious but also brings a touch of festive spirit to your table. The combination of tender turkey and a sweet yet tart cranberry sauce will leave your guests asking for more!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Juicy turkey infused with aromatic herbs
- Sweet and tangy cranberry glaze that complements the meat perfectly
- A stunning centerpiece for your holiday table
The Perfect Holiday Dish
When it comes to holiday feasts, a beautifully roasted turkey is a timeless tradition that brings families and friends together. This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze not only provides a succulent main course but also adds a vibrant touch to your festive table. The combination of hearty turkey and a delightful cranberry glaze creates a dish that is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
The turkey’s juicy meat, infused with aromatic herbs, invites everyone to gather around the table and share in the joyous occasion. Whether it's Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special gathering, this dish stands out as a symbol of celebration and togetherness.
A Flavorful Glaze
The star of this recipe is undoubtedly the cranberry glaze. Made from fresh cranberries, sugar, and orange juice, it strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tangy. The addition of cinnamon and apple cider vinegar enhances the flavors, making it a delectable topping that complements the savory turkey beautifully.
Brushing the glaze onto the turkey during the last stages of roasting adds a glossy finish and elevates the dish's flavor profile. As the glaze caramelizes, it creates a mouthwatering crust that is simply irresistible.
Tips for Success
To ensure a perfectly roasted turkey, it's crucial to monitor the internal temperature. Using a meat thermometer will help you achieve the ideal doneness without overcooking. Remember to let the turkey rest after roasting; this allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender, juicy meat.
Additionally, feel free to customize the herbs in the turkey rub based on your preferences. Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, and sage not only enhance the flavor but also infuse the turkey with aromatic qualities that everyone will love.
Ingredients
For the Turkey
- 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
For the Cranberry Glaze
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Make sure to prepare your ingredients ahead of time for a smoother cooking experience.
Instructions
Prepare the Turkey
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Rinse the turkey under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Rub the turkey with olive oil, then season with salt, pepper, thyme, rosemary, and sage.
Roast the Turkey
Place the turkey in a roasting pan and roast in the preheated oven for about 3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste the turkey with the juices every 30 minutes.
Make the Cranberry Glaze
In a saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, cinnamon, and apple cider vinegar. Cook over medium heat until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 15 minutes.
Glaze the Turkey
During the last 30 minutes of roasting, brush the cranberry glaze over the turkey. Return to the oven to finish cooking.
Serve
Once the turkey is done, let it rest for 20 minutes before carving. Serve with the remaining cranberry glaze on the side.
Enjoy your beautifully roasted turkey with family and friends!
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, you can brine the turkey overnight before roasting.
Frequently Asked Questions
One common question is how long to cook a turkey. A general rule of thumb is to roast your turkey for about 13-15 minutes per pound at 325°F (165°C). However, always rely on a meat thermometer to ensure the thickest part of the breast reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Another frequent inquiry revolves around the best way to store leftovers. After carving the turkey, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Leftover turkey can last for 3-4 days, and it's perfect for sandwiches, soups, or even salads.
Serving Suggestions
This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze pairs wonderfully with classic sides such as creamy mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, and stuffing. Consider adding a fresh salad for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the turkey.
For a festive touch, garnish the turkey with fresh herbs and orange slices before serving. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds a bright, citrusy aroma that will entice your guests.
Storage and Reheating
If you find yourself with leftover turkey, storing it properly is key to maintaining flavor and texture. Place sliced turkey in an airtight container and refrigerate. For longer storage, consider freezing portions of turkey, which can last up to three months in the freezer.
When it comes to reheating, the best method is to use the oven. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C), cover the turkey with foil, and heat until warmed through, ensuring it stays moist and delicious. This way, you can enjoy the delightful flavors even after the holiday feast is over.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a frozen turkey?
Yes, make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator for several days before cooking.
→ How do I know when the turkey is done?
Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh. It should read 165°F (74°C).
→ Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the glaze a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
→ What sides go well with roasted turkey?
Classic sides include mashed potatoes, stuffing, green beans, and cranberry sauce.
Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze
This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze is a festive centerpiece that combines savory turkey with a sweet and tangy glaze, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Created by: Maribel Hawthorne
Recipe Type: Holiday Kitchen
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 1 turkey (12-14 lbs)
What You'll Need
For the Turkey
- 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
For the Cranberry Glaze
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Rinse the turkey under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Rub the turkey with olive oil, then season with salt, pepper, thyme, rosemary, and sage.
Place the turkey in a roasting pan and roast in the preheated oven for about 3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste the turkey with the juices every 30 minutes.
In a saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, cinnamon, and apple cider vinegar. Cook over medium heat until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 15 minutes.
During the last 30 minutes of roasting, brush the cranberry glaze over the turkey. Return to the oven to finish cooking.
Once the turkey is done, let it rest for 20 minutes before carving. Serve with the remaining cranberry glaze on the side.
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, you can brine the turkey overnight before roasting.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 18g
- Protein: 26g