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 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 cup orange juice; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

Highlighted under: Holiday Festive Food Ideas

This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze recipe brings a festive touch to your holiday table, combining succulent turkey with a sweet and tangy glaze.

Created by

Maribel Sutton

Last updated on 2025-12-30T20:10:34.705Z

Roasting a turkey is a cherished tradition, especially during the holidays. This recipe enhances the experience with a delightful cranberry glaze that adds a burst of flavor, making it a centerpiece that everyone will remember.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Succulent turkey infused with a sweet and tangy cranberry glaze
Perfect for holiday gatherings and celebrations
Easy to prepare, making it suitable for cooks of all skill levels

      

The Perfect Holiday Centerpiece

A succulent roasted turkey is often the centerpiece of holiday gatherings, and with this recipe, you’ll impress your guests with a dish that’s both visually stunning and deliciously satisfying. The golden-brown skin, aromatic herbs, and the enticing cranberry glaze create a feast for the eyes and palate. This turkey will not only fill your home with delightful aromas but also provide the perfect canvas for all your favorite side dishes.

When hosting a holiday meal, it’s essential to serve a dish that embodies the spirit of the occasion. This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze captures the essence of festive seasons, making it a must-have on your table. The combination of flavors and textures provides a memorable dining experience that encourages laughter and togetherness around the table.

Easy Preparation for All Skill Levels

One of the best aspects of this roasted turkey recipe is its simplicity. Even if you’re a novice in the kitchen, the straightforward steps will guide you through the process seamlessly. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can achieve a gourmet dish that will have your family asking for seconds. Plus, the hands-off roasting time allows you to focus on preparing other dishes or simply enjoying the company of your guests.

By following the easy instructions, you can ensure a perfectly cooked turkey every time. The trick is to keep an eye on the internal temperature and baste with pan juices, which helps in achieving that juicy, tender meat that everyone loves. This recipe is designed to empower home cooks of all levels, allowing you to create a memorable holiday feast without stress.

Versatile and Flavorful

Not only does this roasted turkey shine on special occasions, but it also offers versatility that makes it enjoyable year-round. You can easily adapt the cranberry glaze by adding different spices or even incorporating other fruits, such as apples or pears, for a unique twist. This flexibility allows you to customize the dish according to your taste preferences, making it a staple in your recipe repertoire.

The turkey itself can be seasoned with various herbs and spices, allowing you to explore different flavor profiles. Whether it's a traditional Thanksgiving feast or a summer barbecue, this roasted turkey with cranberry glaze can be tailored to suit any occasion, ensuring that it remains a favorite among family and friends.

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 cup orange juice
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

Make sure to check the turkey's internal temperature for doneness before serving.

Cooking 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. Place the onion, carrots, and celery inside the cavity of the turkey.

Roast the Turkey

Place the turkey breast-side up on a rack in a roasting pan. Roast in the preheated oven for about 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Baste with the pan juices every 30 minutes.

Make the Cranberry Glaze

While the turkey is roasting, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the mixture has thickened.

Glaze the Turkey

In the last 30 minutes of roasting, brush the turkey with the cranberry glaze. Return to the oven and continue roasting until done. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 20 minutes before carving.

Serve the turkey with additional cranberry glaze on the side for a flavorful touch.

Serving Suggestions

To complement your roasted turkey, consider serving classic side dishes such as buttery mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, or stuffing. These traditional accompaniments will enhance the flavors of the turkey and cranberry glaze, creating a harmonious meal that celebrates the season. Don't forget to prepare a fresh salad with seasonal greens and a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the turkey.

For a festive touch, garnish your turkey with fresh herbs and citrus fruits like oranges or lemons. This not only adds a pop of color to your presentation but also infuses additional flavor into the dish. A well-rounded meal will leave your guests feeling satisfied and happy, making your gathering a memorable one.

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, storing them properly is key to enjoying your roasted turkey for days to come. Allow the turkey to cool completely before slicing and transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, making it perfect for sandwiches, salads, or even turkey soup.

For longer storage, consider freezing your leftover turkey. Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When stored properly, turkey can last in the freezer for up to three months. This way, you can savor the delightful flavors of your holiday meal long after the festivities have ended.

Enhancing the Glaze

To elevate the cranberry glaze further, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a hint of ginger for an extra layer of complexity. These additions can enhance the sweet and tangy profile of the glaze, making it even more delightful when brushed over the turkey. You can also experiment with different types of citrus juices, such as lemon or lime, to create a unique flavor that suits your palate.

Serving the glaze on the side can also be a fantastic idea, allowing guests to add as much or as little as they like. Pairing the turkey with a variety of sauces or chutneys can create an interactive dining experience and cater to diverse tastes, ensuring everyone at your table finds something they love.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen turkey?

Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely 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 at least 165°F (75°C).

→ Can I prepare the glaze in advance?

Yes, you can make the cranberry glaze up to two days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

→ What side dishes go well with roasted turkey?

Popular sides include mashed potatoes, green beans, stuffing, and cranberry sauce.