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 (12-14 pound) whole turkey, thawed; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 onion, quartered; 2 carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 cups fresh cranberries; 1 cup sugar; 1 cup orange juice; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

Highlighted under: Special Favorites

Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze is a stunning centerpiece for your holiday feast, combining savory flavors with a sweet and tangy cranberry glaze.

Created by

Maeve Colchester

Last updated on 2025-12-30T18:55:35.485Z

This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze is not just a dish; it’s a tradition. Celebrated for its rich flavors, this recipe will make your gatherings memorable.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Juicy turkey infused with aromatic herbs and spices
Sweet and tangy cranberry glaze adds a festive touch
A show-stopping dish that impresses at any gathering

      

The Perfect Holiday Turkey

Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze is more than just a meal; it's a tradition that brings family and friends together during the holiday season. This classic dish stands out with its succulent meat and vibrant flavors, making it a must-have on any festive table. The combination of savory herbs and the sweet-tart cranberry glaze creates a perfect balance that delights the palate and satisfies the soul.

Preparing a whole turkey may seem intimidating, but with the right approach, it can be a rewarding experience. The key to a successful roast lies not only in the choice of turkey but also in the preparation method. This recipe guides you through each step, ensuring that your turkey turns out juicy and flavorful, leaving your guests asking for seconds.

Cranberry Glaze: A Festive Touch

The cranberry glaze is what truly elevates this roast turkey recipe. It adds a festive touch and an unexpected burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory notes of the turkey. Made from fresh cranberries, sugar, and orange juice, this glaze is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Its vibrant red color brings a holiday spirit to your dining table.

Creating the glaze is straightforward and can be done while the turkey roasts. The delightful aroma that fills your kitchen as the cranberries cook is just the beginning of the magic. This glaze can also be used as a condiment or even drizzled over leftover turkey sandwiches, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor.

Serving Suggestions

To complement your Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze, consider serving it alongside classic sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or stuffing. These side dishes not only enhance the meal but also create a well-rounded dining experience. Don't forget to include some cranberry sauce on the side for those who love an extra burst of flavor.

Presentation is key when serving your turkey. After allowing it to rest, carve the turkey with care and arrange the slices on a platter. Drizzle some of the cranberry glaze over the turkey to make it visually stunning. Garnishing with fresh herbs or orange slices can add a beautiful touch, making your holiday feast not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes.

Ingredients

For the Turkey

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

For the Cranberry Glaze

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

Instructions

Prepare the Turkey

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

Roast the Turkey

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

Make the Cranberry Glaze

While the turkey is roasting, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 15 minutes.

Glaze the Turkey

In the last 30 minutes of roasting, brush the cranberry glaze over the turkey. Continue to roast until the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 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.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, add herbs like thyme and rosemary to the cavity of the turkey.

Tips for Success

To ensure your turkey is perfectly roasted, invest in a meat thermometer. This handy tool takes the guesswork out of cooking and guarantees that your turkey reaches the ideal internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remember to check the temperature in the thickest part of the thigh for the most accurate reading.

Brining your turkey beforehand can significantly enhance its flavor and moisture. If time allows, consider brining your turkey overnight in a mixture of salt, sugar, and herbs. This extra step can make a world of difference, resulting in a juicy and flavorful bird that will be the star of your holiday table.

Storing Leftovers

Once the festivities are over, properly storing your leftover turkey is essential to enjoying it for days to come. Make sure to refrigerate any leftover turkey within two hours of serving to prevent bacterial growth. Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh and flavorful.

Leftover turkey can be used in various dishes, from sandwiches to soups. Shred the meat and toss it into salads or casseroles for a quick and tasty meal. The cranberry glaze can also be saved and used as a dressing for salads or as a dip for appetizers, ensuring that nothing goes to waste!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cranberries?

Yes, frozen cranberries can be used in place of fresh cranberries.

→ How long should I let the turkey rest?

Let the turkey rest for at least 20 minutes before carving.

→ Can I prepare the glaze in advance?

Yes, the cranberry glaze can be made a day ahead and refrigerated.

→ What sides pair well with this turkey?

Traditional sides like mashed potatoes, stuffing, and green beans complement this dish beautifully.