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 (14-16 pound) whole turkey, thawed; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 teaspoons salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon dried thyme; 1 tablespoon dried rosemary; 1 tablespoon garlic powder; 1 onion, quartered; 2 carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries; 1 cup sugar; 1/2 cup orange juice; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg; 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Highlighted under: Special Food

This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze is the perfect centerpiece for your holiday feast. Juicy, flavorful turkey is elevated with a sweet and tangy cranberry sauce that will impress your guests.

Created by

Yasmin Thornton

Last updated on 2025-12-30T18:25:35.435Z

Roasting a turkey is a time-honored tradition that brings families together during the holidays. This recipe combines the classic flavors of turkey with a delightful cranberry glaze, making it a dish everyone will love.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Juicy turkey infused with aromatic herbs and spices
Sweet and tangy cranberry glaze adds a unique twist
Perfect for family gatherings and special occasions

      

The Perfect Holiday Centerpiece

This Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Glaze stands out as the star of any holiday gathering. Not only does it look stunning on the table, but its aroma fills the room, drawing everyone in. The golden-brown skin and the glossy cranberry glaze create a feast for the eyes, while the juicy, tender meat ensures that your guests will be coming back for seconds. When you're hosting a special occasion, presenting a beautifully roasted turkey is a tradition that brings everyone together.

The combination of herbs and spices used in this recipe infuses the turkey with incredible flavor. The blend of thyme, rosemary, and garlic powder creates a savory depth that complements the natural richness of the turkey. Plus, the addition of fresh vegetables in the cavity adds moisture and enhances the overall taste. Every bite promises to be a delightful experience, making this dish a must-try for your holiday menu.

Elevating Your Turkey with Cranberry Glaze

What sets this turkey apart is the luscious cranberry glaze that adds a sweet and tangy element. Made from fresh or frozen cranberries, sugar, and orange juice, this glaze is simple yet elevates the entire dish. As it caramelizes on the turkey during the final cooking stage, it creates a beautiful crust that is not only visually appealing but also incredibly delicious. The contrasting flavors of the glaze bring a refreshing brightness to the meal, making it unforgettable.

This cranberry glaze is versatile and can also be used as a delightful sauce for sides or even drizzled over mashed potatoes. Its vibrant color and flavor make it a perfect accompaniment to the rich, savory turkey, ensuring that every bite is balanced and satisfying. Whether you're adding it to your holiday spread or using it for a family dinner, this glaze is sure to impress.

Making the Most of Your Leftovers

After the feast is over, you may find yourself with leftover turkey. Don’t fret! There are countless delicious ways to repurpose it. Consider making a hearty turkey soup by simmering the carcass with vegetables and herbs, or whip up turkey sandwiches with cranberry sauce for a post-holiday lunch. These creative uses not only reduce waste but also allow you to enjoy the flavors of your festive meal long after the celebration has ended.

You can also shred leftover turkey for use in salads, casseroles, or enchiladas. The versatility of turkey means you can mix and match ingredients based on what you have available. With a little creativity, your leftovers can transform into entirely new meals, making your holiday cooking even more worthwhile.

Ingredients

For the Turkey

1 (14-16 pound) whole turkey, thawed
1/4 cup olive oil
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon dried thyme
1 tablespoon dried rosemary
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 onion, quartered
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped

For the Cranberry Glaze

2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup orange juice
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Make sure to gather all your ingredients before starting for a smooth cooking process.

Instructions

Prepare the Turkey

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). In a small bowl, mix olive oil, salt, pepper, thyme, rosemary, and garlic powder. Rub this mixture all over the turkey, including under the skin for maximum flavor.

Stuff the cavity with onion, carrots, and celery. Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan.

Roast the Turkey

Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for about 3 to 3.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Baste the turkey every 30 minutes with the pan juices for a golden skin.

Make the Cranberry Glaze

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

Glaze the Turkey

In the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush the cranberry glaze over the turkey. Return it to the oven to caramelize the glaze.

Let it Rest

Once cooked, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for at least 20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute.

Carve your turkey and serve it with the remaining cranberry glaze on the side for an extra burst of flavor.

Pro Tips

For a more flavorful turkey, brine it a day before roasting. Use fresh herbs for the best flavor.

Tips for a Perfectly Roasted Turkey

To ensure your turkey is perfectly roasted, make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. A frozen turkey can lead to uneven cooking and dryness. The night before, place the turkey in the refrigerator to allow it to thaw safely. Additionally, letting the turkey sit at room temperature for about an hour before roasting helps it cook evenly.

Basting the turkey with pan juices not only keeps it moist but also enhances the flavor of the skin. Use a baster or spoon to apply the juices every 30 minutes while roasting. This technique will reward you with a beautifully browned and crispy exterior.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Roasted Turkey with classic side dishes such as creamy mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, or stuffing to create a well-rounded meal. Don't forget to include cranberry sauce on the side to enhance the flavors even more. A fresh salad can also provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the turkey.

For dessert, consider serving pumpkin pie or apple crisp to complete your holiday feast. The combination of savory and sweet flavors will leave your guests satisfied and happy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cranberries?

Yes, frozen cranberries work well for this recipe, just make sure to thaw them before cooking.

→ How long should I cook the turkey?

Cook the turkey for about 13-15 minutes per pound at 325°F (165°C).

→ What should I serve with roasted turkey?

Traditional sides include stuffing, mashed potatoes, and green bean casserole.

→ Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time?

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