Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey: The Ultimate Turkey Recipe

Name: Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 90 min
Total time: 110 min
Ingredients: 1.5 teaspoons kosher salt; 11 pounds turkey, cut into 6 pieces; 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; 0.75 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth; 0 Assorted fresh herb sprigs (for garnish); 0 Orange wedges (for garnish); 0 Whole cranberries (for garnish); 0.5 cup frozen orange juice concentrate (thawed); 0.5 cup frozen cranberry juice cocktail concentrate (thawed); 0.25 cup orange marmalade; 1.25 teaspoons chopped fresh rosemary; 1 tablespoon butter; 0.25 teaspoon kosher salt; 0.125 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Introduction to Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey

This Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey recipe is a delightful twist on a classic dish, perfect for family gatherings and special occasions. The combination of tart cranberry and bright orange flavors brings a refreshing zest to the traditional turkey, making it a standout centerpiece on any table. Whether you’re cooking for a holiday or a simple family dinner, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy your taste buds.

A Personal Story Behind My Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Journey

Growing up, turkey was always a staple at our family gatherings. It wasn’t just about the turkey; it was about the love and laughter that filled the room. My grandmother used to prepare a special glaze for her turkey that included citrus fruits, which instantly became a family favorite. As I grew older, I wanted to put my own spin on her recipe, and that’s how I discovered the magic of combining cranberry and orange. This recipe not only honors her legacy but also brings a new flavor profile that my family and I adore.

What Makes This Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Recipe Special?

What sets this recipe apart is its balance of flavors and textures. The sweet and tangy glaze enhances the savory turkey, creating a mouthwatering dish that is both juicy and flavorful. The fresh herbs and garnishes elevate the presentation, making it a feast for the eyes as well. Plus, the easy-to-follow instructions mean that anyone, regardless of cooking skill, can create a delicious turkey that will leave guests raving.

The Full Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Recipe

Ingredients

1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
11-pound turkey, cut into 6 pieces
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
Assorted fresh herb sprigs (for garnish)
Orange wedges (for garnish)
Whole cranberries (for garnish)
For The Cranberry Orange Glaze:
1/2 cup frozen orange juice concentrate (thawed)
1/2 cup frozen cranberry juice cocktail concentrate (thawed)
1/4 cup orange marmalade
1 1/4 teaspoons chopped fresh rosemary
1 tablespoon butter
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and position a rack in the bottom third of the oven.
Rinse the turkey pieces and pat them dry with paper towels. Tip: Make sure they are dry for a crispier skin. Brush the turkey with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Arrange the turkey pieces on a baking sheet, skin-side up, ensuring the thicker ends are at the corners and drumsticks in the center. Roast for 1 hour and 10 minutes.
Remove the turkey from the oven and brush with the Cranberry-Orange Glaze. Pour chicken broth onto the baking sheet to prevent drippings from burning. Roast for an additional 20 minutes, covering loosely with foil if browning too quickly, until the thickest part of the thigh reaches 165-170°F (74-77°C).

Transfer the turkey to a platter, brush with more glaze, and let it rest for 25-30 minutes before slicing. Tip: Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist turkey.
Scrape pan juices and browned bits into a measuring cup, removing any fat that rises. Heat the degreased pan juices in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Whisk in 2-3 tablespoons of glaze to make gravy. Simmer to blend flavors.
Slice the turkey, garnish with herb sprigs, orange wedges, and cranberries. Serve with the gravy.

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey

This turkey pairs wonderfully with traditional sides like mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, or a fresh salad. For a twist, consider serving it with a wild rice pilaf or roasted seasonal vegetables. You can also use the leftover turkey in sandwiches or salads for a delicious post-holiday meal. To keep things fresh, try adding different herbs to the glaze, such as thyme or sage, to explore new flavor combinations.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey

Can I use a frozen turkey? Yes, just ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking for even cooking results.
How can I make the glaze ahead of time? You can prepare the glaze a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before using.
What should I do with leftovers? Leftover turkey can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Use it in salads, sandwiches, or soups for quick meals.