Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze
Highlighted under: Summer Seasonal Food Favorites
Discover the perfect centerpiece for your holiday table with this Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze. Juicy turkey is complemented by a sweet and tangy glaze, making it a delightful dish for any special occasion.
This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze is not just a meal; it's a celebration. The succulent turkey, paired with a vibrant cranberry glaze, brings together rich flavors that evoke the warmth of family gatherings.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Juicy turkey with a flavorful, sweet glaze
- A beautiful presentation for holiday gatherings
- Easy to follow steps for a stress-free cooking experience
Ingredients
For the Turkey
- 1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups chicken broth
For the Cranberry Glaze
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Make sure to gather all ingredients before starting the cooking process.
Cooking Instructions
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Rinse the turkey under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Rub the turkey with olive oil, and season generously with salt and pepper. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and pour the chicken broth into the pan.
In a saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and cinnamon. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Place the turkey in the preheated oven. Roast for about 3 hours, basting every 30 minutes with the pan juices. When the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), remove the turkey from the oven.
Brush the cranberry glaze over the turkey during the last 30 minutes of roasting. Return to the oven and finish roasting until the glaze is caramelized.
Let the turkey rest for 20 minutes before carving. Serve with remaining cranberry glaze on the side.
Enjoy your delicious Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze!
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftover turkey should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within three to four days. For longer storage, you can freeze the turkey. Just make sure to slice it before freezing to make reheating easier. Wrap the slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag, where they can last for up to six months.
When it comes to reheating, the best method is to use the oven. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C), place the turkey in a covered dish with a bit of broth to keep it moist, and heat until warmed through. This method helps maintain the turkey's juiciness and flavor, making it taste almost as good as freshly cooked.
Health Benefits of Turkey
Turkey is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. It's a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. Additionally, turkey contains important vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins, zinc, and selenium, all of which contribute to overall health.
Choosing turkey as your holiday centerpiece also allows you to provide a meal that is lower in fat compared to traditional beef or pork roasts. This makes it a heart-healthy option that can fit into a balanced diet, particularly when paired with nutrient-rich sides like vegetables and whole grains.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen turkey?
Yes, make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking.
→ How long should I let the turkey rest?
Let the turkey rest for at least 20 minutes before carving to retain its juices.
→ 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 sides go well with this turkey?
Consider serving mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, or stuffing alongside the turkey.
Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze
Discover the perfect centerpiece for your holiday table with this Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze. Juicy turkey is complemented by a sweet and tangy glaze, making it a delightful dish for any special occasion.
Created by: Lauren Mitchell
Recipe Type: Summer Seasonal Food Favorites
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
For the Turkey
- 1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups chicken broth
For the Cranberry Glaze
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Rinse the turkey under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Rub the turkey with olive oil, and season generously with salt and pepper. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and pour the chicken broth into the pan.
In a saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and cinnamon. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Place the turkey in the preheated oven. Roast for about 3 hours, basting every 30 minutes with the pan juices. When the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), remove the turkey from the oven.
Brush the cranberry glaze over the turkey during the last 30 minutes of roasting. Return to the oven and finish roasting until the glaze is caramelized.
Let the turkey rest for 20 minutes before carving. Serve with remaining cranberry glaze on the side.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 22g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 36g