Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze

Name: Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 20 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs); 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 teaspoons salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped; 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries; 1 cup sugar; 1 cup orange juice; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

Highlighted under: Occasion Ideas

This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze is a delightful centerpiece for any festive gathering. The sweet and tangy cranberry glaze perfectly complements the savory flavor of the turkey, making it a perennial favorite during the holiday season.

Created by

Kendra Lawson

Last updated on 2025-12-30T20:01:34.605Z

This roasted turkey is not just a meal; it's a tradition. The beautiful golden-brown skin and the aromatic fragrance of herbs and spices fill your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the dinner table. The addition of cranberry glaze adds a modern twist, ensuring that every bite is a burst of flavor.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Juicy turkey infused with aromatic herbs
Sweet and tangy cranberry glaze that elevates the dish
Perfect for holiday gatherings and special occasions

The Perfect Holiday Dish

Roasted turkey has long been a staple of holiday feasts, and this recipe takes it to the next level with a mouthwatering cranberry glaze. The combination of savory herbs and the sweetness of cranberries creates a unique flavor profile that will impress your guests. Whether it's Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion, this turkey will be the star of your dining table.

Not only is this dish visually stunning, but it also brings a sense of warmth and nostalgia to any gathering. The golden-brown skin and juicy meat, paired with the vibrant cranberry glaze, make for a feast that is both delicious and festive. This recipe is designed to ensure that your turkey is moist and flavorful, making every bite a delight.

Tips for a Perfect Roast

To achieve the best results, it’s essential to start with a high-quality turkey. Look for a fresh or frozen turkey that is free-range or organic for optimal flavor. Additionally, ensure that your turkey is completely thawed if purchased frozen; this may take several days in the refrigerator, so plan ahead to avoid any last-minute surprises.

Basting the turkey during roasting is crucial to keep it moist. Use the pan juices to baste every 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the skin to crisp up beautifully. If you find the turkey browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while allowing it to cook through.

Serving Suggestions

This roasted turkey pairs wonderfully with traditional sides such as mashed potatoes, stuffing, and green bean casserole. For an extra touch, consider serving a fresh salad with seasonal ingredients to balance out the richness of the turkey. The cranberry glaze also makes a great dip for rolls or a topping for leftovers the next day.

Don’t forget to save the turkey bones for making a rich stock! Simply simmer the bones with vegetables and herbs to create a flavorful base for soups or gravies. This not only minimizes waste but also enhances your future meals with the delicious flavors of your holiday turkey.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before you start cooking for a smooth process.

For the Turkey

1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped

For the Cranberry Glaze

2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
1 cup sugar
1 cup orange juice
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully for the best results.

Prepare the Turkey

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Rinse the turkey under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. In a bowl, mix the softened butter, olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, rosemary, thyme, and sage. Rub this mixture all over the turkey, including under the skin for maximum flavor.

Roast the Turkey

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

Make the Cranberry Glaze

While the turkey is roasting, combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and cinnamon in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until the cranberries burst, about 10 minutes. Stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook until thickened. Remove from heat and set aside.

Glaze the Turkey

During the last 30 minutes of roasting, brush the turkey with the cranberry glaze. Return to the oven and continue roasting until the turkey is golden brown and fully cooked.

Rest and Serve

Once cooked, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 20-30 minutes before carving. Serve with extra cranberry glaze on the side.

Enjoy your delicious roasted turkey with family and friends!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider brining your turkey overnight before cooking.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Make sure to separate the meat from the bones to maintain freshness. For longer storage, consider freezing the turkey. Slice the meat and freeze it in portions, which can be easily reheated for quick meals later on.

When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to the turkey to keep it moist. Cover it with foil to prevent drying out in the oven. This way, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of your roasted turkey long after the holiday festivities have ended.

Nutritional Information

A serving of roasted turkey is a lean protein option that is low in calories while being rich in essential vitamins and minerals. Turkey is an excellent source of vitamin B6 and niacin, both of which are crucial for energy metabolism. Additionally, the cranberry glaze adds a dose of antioxidants, thanks to the rich nutrients found in cranberries.

While the dish does contain butter and sugar, moderation is key. Enjoying this dish as part of a balanced meal, along with plenty of vegetables, can make for a satisfying and nutritious holiday feast.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cranberries?

Yes, frozen cranberries work well in this recipe. Just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking.

→ How long should I cook the turkey?

A general rule is to roast the turkey for about 13-15 minutes per pound at 350°F (175°C).

→ What can I serve with this turkey?

Traditional sides like mashed potatoes, stuffing, and green beans pair beautifully with roasted turkey.

→ Can I prepare the glaze in advance?

Absolutely! The cranberry glaze can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator until needed.