Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze

Name: Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds); 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 onion, quartered; 2 carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 2 cups fresh cranberries; 1 cup sugar; 1/2 cup orange juice; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

Highlighted under: Celebration Meals

Enjoy a beautifully roasted turkey slathered in a delicious cranberry glaze that brings a sweet and tangy flavor to your holiday table.

Created by

Belinda Fraser

Last updated on 2025-12-30T21:34:34.389Z

This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze is the perfect centerpiece for your holiday feast. The sweet and tart glaze pairs perfectly with the savory turkey, making each bite a delightful experience.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Juicy turkey infused with rich cranberry flavors
A stunning centerpiece that impresses guests
Perfect balance of sweet and savory in every bite

      

The Perfect Holiday Centerpiece

When it comes to holiday gatherings, the turkey is often the star of the show. A beautifully roasted turkey not only fulfills the role of a delicious main course but also serves as a stunning centerpiece that captures the attention of your guests. The golden-brown skin, glistening with cranberry glaze, creates a visual feast that enhances the festive atmosphere of any celebration.

This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze is not just about looks; it’s about flavor. Each bite offers a delightful balance of sweet and savory notes, making it a dish that will be remembered and requested year after year. The combination of juicy turkey and the rich, tangy glaze elevates the traditional turkey experience to new heights, ensuring your meal is both satisfying and memorable.

Health Benefits of Cranberries

Cranberries are not just a delicious addition to your holiday meal; they also come packed with health benefits! Rich in antioxidants, cranberries are known for their ability to combat inflammation and promote heart health. Incorporating cranberries into your dishes can help enhance your overall health while providing a burst of flavor to your meals.

The cranberry glaze in this recipe not only adds a beautiful color and taste to the turkey but also offers a nutritious boost. By using fresh cranberries, you maximize the health benefits, ensuring that your holiday feast is as health-conscious as it is indulgent. So, you can enjoy your delicious turkey while knowing it’s good for you!

Tips for Perfectly Roasting a Turkey

Roasting a turkey can seem intimidating, but with the right techniques, you can achieve a perfectly cooked bird every time. Start by ensuring your turkey is completely thawed and at room temperature before cooking. This allows for even cooking and ensures that your turkey remains juicy throughout the roasting process.

Basting the turkey regularly is another key tip. Every 30 minutes, use the pan juices to baste the turkey, keeping the skin moist and enhancing its flavor. Additionally, using a meat thermometer is crucial to avoid overcooking. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast for a succulent result.

Ingredients

For the Turkey

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

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). Rinse the turkey under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Rub the turkey with olive oil, and 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 roasting rack in a large roasting pan. Roast in the preheated oven for about 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste the turkey every 30 minutes with the pan juices.

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. Remove from heat and let cool.

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 golden brown.

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 beautifully roasted turkey with family and friends!

Pro Tips

For a more flavorful turkey, let it marinate overnight with olive oil and seasonings.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your beautifully roasted turkey, presentation is key. Carve the turkey at the table for a dramatic effect, allowing guests to see the juicy, tender meat. Pair the turkey with traditional sides such as mashed potatoes, stuffing, and green bean casserole to create a well-rounded holiday meal that everyone will love.

Don’t forget to offer the remaining cranberry glaze on the side. It makes for a perfect dipping sauce that enhances the flavors of the turkey and adds a touch of sweetness. Consider rounding out your meal with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables to balance out the richness of the turkey.

Storing Leftovers

After the festivities, you might find yourself with plenty of turkey leftovers. To keep your turkey fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it can last for up to four days. The cranberry glaze can also be refrigerated and used to add flavor to sandwiches or salads in the days following your celebration.

If you want to keep your turkey for longer, consider freezing it. Slice the leftover turkey and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer-safe bag. This will help preserve its moisture and flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it gently to avoid drying out the meat.

Frequently Asked Questions

One common question regarding roasting a turkey is whether to cover it with foil. Covering the turkey with foil during the first part of roasting can help prevent the skin from browning too quickly. Remove the foil during the last hour of cooking to allow the skin to crisp up beautifully while the meat remains juicy.

Another frequently asked question involves the ideal cooking time for turkey. A general rule of thumb is to roast the turkey for about 13-15 minutes per pound. However, using a meat thermometer is the most reliable way to ensure it’s cooked perfectly. This will help you avoid guesswork and enjoy a beautifully roasted turkey every time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen turkey?

Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the glaze up to a week in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

→ What sides go well with this turkey?

Classic sides include mashed potatoes, stuffing, and green beans.