Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey: A Delicious Holiday Recipe to Impress Your Guests

Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey is a delightful dish that brings a burst of flavor to any festive table. As the holiday season approaches, I find myself reminiscing about family gatherings where this succulent turkey took center stage. The sweet and tangy glaze, made from fresh cranberries and zesty oranges, not only enhances the turkey’s natural flavors but also adds a vibrant pop of color that is simply irresistible.

Historically, cranberries have been a staple in American cuisine, especially during Thanksgiving, symbolizing the harvest and the spirit of gratitude. This Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of tradition and togetherness. People love this dish for its perfect balance of taste and texture—the juicy turkey paired with the glossy, fruity glaze creates a mouthwatering experience that leaves everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to prepare, making it a convenient choice for both novice and seasoned cooks alike. Let’s dive into this recipe and make your next gathering unforgettable!

Ingredients:

• 1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds), thawed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed is best)
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 onion, quartered
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• Fresh herbs (such as thyme and rosemary) for stuffing the turkey

Preparing the Turkey

1. **Preheat the Oven**: I start by preheating my oven to 325°F (165°C). This ensures that the turkey cooks evenly and thoroughly. 2. **Prepare the Turkey**: I take the thawed turkey out of the refrigerator and remove the giblets and neck from the cavity. I give the turkey a good rinse under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. 3. **Season the Turkey**: I rub the entire turkey with olive oil, making sure to cover every inch. Then, I generously season it with salt and pepper, both inside and out. This step is crucial for flavor. 4. **Stuff the Turkey**: I stuff the cavity of the turkey with the quartered onion, chopped carrots, chopped celery, and a handful of fresh herbs. This not only adds flavor but also helps keep the turkey moist during cooking.

Making the Cranberry Orange Glaze

5. **Prepare the Glaze**: In a medium saucepan, I combine the fresh cranberries, orange juice, brown sugar, grated orange zest, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground ginger. I bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat. 6. **Simmer the Glaze**: Once boiling, I reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens slightly. I stir occasionally to prevent sticking. 7. **Add Butter**: After the glaze has thickened, I remove it from the heat and stir in the unsalted butter until it melts completely. This adds a rich flavor and glossy finish to the glaze.

Cooking the Turkey

8. **Prepare for Roasting**: I place the turkey breast-side up on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan. This allows the heat to circulate around the turkey for even cooking. 9. **Add Broth**: I pour the low-sodium chicken broth into the bottom of the roasting pan. This will help keep the turkey moist and create a delicious base for gravy later. 10. **Roast the Turkey**: I cover the turkey loosely with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. I roast the turkey for about 2 to 2.5 hours, basting it with the pan juices every 30 minutes. 11. **Glaze the Turkey**: After the turkey has been roasting for about 2 hours, I carefully remove the foil and brush the cranberry orange glaze all over the turkey. I return it to the oven, uncovered, for an additional 30-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. 12. **Check for Doneness**: I use a meat thermometer to check the temperature. If the turkey is browning too quickly, I cover it loosely with foil again to prevent burning.

Resting and Carving the Turkey

13. **Rest the Turkey**: Once the turkey is done, I remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 20-30 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making for a juicier turkey. 14. **Carve the Turkey**: I use a sharp carving knife to slice the turkey. I start by removing the legs and thighs, then slice the breast meat. I arrange the slices on a platter for serving.

Making Gravy (Optional)

15. **Prepare the Gravy**: While the turkey is resting, I can make a quick gravy using the drippings in the roasting pan. I place the pan on the stovetop over medium heat.

Conclusion:

In summary, this Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their holiday feast or special occasion. The combination of tart cranberries and zesty oranges creates a delightful glaze that not only enhances the flavor of the turkey but also adds a beautiful, festive touch to your table. Trust me, your guests will be raving about this dish long after the meal is over! For serving suggestions, consider pairing this succulent turkey with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the glaze. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also experiment with variations by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the glaze for a warm, aromatic twist, or even incorporating some chopped nuts for added texture. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey a try. I promise it will become a cherished recipe in your collection. Once you’ve made it, I would love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any tweaks you made, or even a photo of your delicious creation. Let’s spread the joy of cooking together! Print