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 whole turkey (12-14 pounds); 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 onion, quartered; 4 garlic cloves, smashed; Fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, sage); 2 cups fresh cranberries; 1 cup sugar; 1 cup orange juice; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

Highlighted under: Holiday Seasonal Food Recipes

Discover the delightful combination of savory roasted turkey and a sweet, tangy cranberry glaze that elevates your holiday feast.

Created by

Amelia Roberts

Last updated on 2025-12-30T20:34:34.699Z

Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze is a classic dish that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. The juicy turkey is complemented perfectly by the vibrant cranberry sauce, creating a dish that is both festive and flavorful.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Juicy turkey infused with aromatic herbs
Sweet and tangy glaze that adds a unique flavor
A stunning centerpiece for your holiday table

      

The Perfect Holiday Dish

Roasted turkey is a timeless centerpiece for holiday gatherings, embodying tradition and warmth. Its rich flavor and tender texture make it a beloved choice for family feasts. This recipe not only highlights the turkey's natural juiciness but also enhances it with a delightful cranberry glaze that provides a sweet and tangy contrast, making every bite memorable. Whether you're hosting a large gathering or an intimate dinner, this roasted turkey will impress your guests and create lasting memories.

The combination of fresh herbs and aromatics stuffed inside the turkey elevates its flavor to new heights. As the turkey roasts, it absorbs the fragrant essence of thyme, rosemary, and sage, resulting in a succulent dish that pairs perfectly with a variety of sides. This recipe is perfect for showcasing your culinary skills while allowing you to enjoy quality time with your loved ones.

Crafting the Cranberry Glaze

The cranberry glaze is the star of this dish, adding a layer of complexity that balances the savory notes of the turkey. Made from fresh cranberries, orange juice, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, this glaze is not only simple to prepare but also bursts with flavor. As the cranberries cook down, they release their natural sweetness, which is perfectly complemented by the sugar and citrus, creating a luscious sauce that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Drizzling this vibrant glaze over the roasted turkey not only enhances its visual appeal but also infuses it with a burst of freshness. The glaze caramelizes slightly during the final roasting, forming a beautiful, glossy finish that is sure to impress. This recipe allows you to create a dish that looks as good as it tastes, making it a wonderful addition to your holiday table.

Serving Suggestions

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking to ensure a smooth cooking process.

For the Turkey

1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 onion, quartered
4 garlic cloves, smashed
Fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, sage)

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 freshness of all ingredients, especially the cranberries, for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfectly roasted turkey with a delicious glaze.

Prepare the Turkey

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Rinse the turkey and pat it dry. Rub olive oil all over the turkey and season generously with salt and pepper. Stuff the cavity with onion, garlic, and herbs.

Roast the Turkey

Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan. Roast in the preheated oven for about 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Make the Cranberry Glaze

In a saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

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 the turkey is fully cooked.

Rest and Serve

Once cooked, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 20 minutes before carving. Serve with additional cranberry glaze on the side.

Enjoy your beautifully roasted turkey with family and friends!

Tips for the Best Roast

To ensure your turkey is perfectly cooked and juicy, consider brining it overnight before roasting. This will help to infuse flavor and moisture, making for a tender bird. If brining isn’t an option, be sure to baste the turkey periodically during roasting to keep it moist and flavorful.

Using a meat thermometer is crucial for checking the internal temperature. The turkey is done when it reaches at least 165°F (75°C) at the thickest part of the thigh. This method guarantees that your turkey is both safe to eat and deliciously juicy.

Storage and Leftovers

After enjoying the main event, store any leftover turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to four days. Leftover turkey can be used in a variety of dishes, from sandwiches to salads, ensuring that nothing goes to waste after your festive meal.

For longer storage, consider freezing the turkey meat. Slice it into portions and wrap tightly before placing it in the freezer. This way, you can enjoy the flavors of your roasted turkey long after the holiday season has passed.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a frozen turkey?

Yes, but ensure it is fully thawed before cooking to ensure even cooking.

→ How do I know when the turkey is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

→ Can I make the cranberry glaze ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the glaze a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

→ What can I serve with roasted turkey?

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