Thanksgiving has always been my favorite holiday. The sights, the sounds, and of course, the incredible food – it’s a time when family and friends come together to celebrate and create lasting memories. One dish that holds a special place in my heart is the Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast. It’s a recipe that’s been passed down through generations in my family, and it’s the centerpiece of our Thanksgiving feast.
I can still remember the first time I helped my grandma prepare this Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast. I was just a little girl, standing on a stool next to her in the kitchen, watching in awe as she expertly seasoned and basted the turkey. The intoxicating aroma of the tangy cranberry and zesty orange glaze would fill the air, making my mouth water in anticipation. When it finally came time to slice into that perfectly golden-brown turkey, the way the juices would burst forth and the flavors would mingle on my tongue – it was pure magic.
Over the years, I’ve recreated this Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast in my own kitchen, and it’s become a go-to dish that never fails to impress. The secret lies in the balance of sweet and tart, and the way the citrusy notes of the orange complement the rich, savory turkey. It’s a dish that’s sure to become a new family favorite.
Table of Contents
Why This Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast
The key to making this Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast truly special is the attention to detail. From the way the turkey is seasoned and prepared, to the careful basting and timing of the cooking process, every step is crucial. The result is a juicy, flavorful turkey that’s elevated by the tangy-sweet glaze, creating a dish that’s sure to impress your guests.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 (6-8 lb) bone-in turkey breast
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp orange zest
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Step-by-Step Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast Instructions
Preparing Your Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast
Preparing this Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast is a straightforward process, but it does require a bit of time and attention. From start to finish, you can expect the entire process to take around 2 hours, including the cooking time. You’ll need a roasting pan, a basting brush, and a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey is cooked to perfection.
1- Begin by patting the turkey breast dry with paper towels and seasoning it generously with a blend of salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary.
2- In a saucepan, combine the cranberries, orange juice, brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, and a pinch of salt. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the cranberries have softened and the glaze has thickened, about 15-20 minutes.
3- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the seasoned turkey breast in a roasting pan. Roast for 60-75 minutes, basting the turkey with the cranberry orange glaze every 15 minutes.
4- Keep a close eye on the turkey, and when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), it’s ready to come out of the oven. The glaze should have created a beautiful, caramelized crust on the turkey.
5- Allow the Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast to rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful result.
6- Slice the turkey and serve it alongside the remaining cranberry orange glaze, garnished with fresh thyme or orange slices.
Pro Tips for Success
When it comes to making the perfect Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast, a few key tips can make all the difference. First, be sure to baste the turkey frequently with the glaze – this helps create that stunning caramelized exterior. Additionally, don’t be afraid to let the turkey rest for a bit before slicing; this allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful final dish.
Serving and Storing Your Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast
Perfect Pairings for Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast
This Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, from classic mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables to savory stuffing and cranberry sauce. For a complete Thanksgiving feast, consider serving it alongside some creamy mashed sweet potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, and a warm, crusty loaf of bread. And of course, don’t forget to serve it with a glass of crisp white wine or a festive cranberry-infused cocktail.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
If you have any leftover Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place the sliced turkey in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through.
For a make-ahead option, you can prepare the cranberry orange glaze in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. On the day of your event, simply reheat the glaze and baste the turkey as directed in the recipe.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast
Creative Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast Variations
If you’re looking to switch things up, there are plenty of ways to put a unique spin on this Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast recipe. For a festive twist, try adding a splash of cranberry liqueur or Grand Marnier to the glaze. You could also experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary or sage, to complement the citrusy flavors.
Making Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast Diet-Friendly
To make this dish more diet-friendly, you can opt for a boneless, skinless turkey breast to reduce the fat and calorie content. Additionally, you can substitute the brown sugar in the glaze with a sugar-free sweetener, and use a low-sodium broth or stock in place of the orange juice. For a gluten-free version, simply ensure that all of your ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
A: Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well in this recipe. You may need to adjust the cooking time of the glaze slightly, as frozen cranberries may release more liquid.
Q: How long does the turkey need to cook?
A: The cooking time for the Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast can vary depending on the size of your turkey breast. As a general guideline, plan for 60-75 minutes of roasting time, basting the turkey every 15 minutes with the glaze.
Q: Can I make the Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can! The turkey can be roasted and the glaze can be prepared a day in advance. Simply reheat the turkey and glaze before serving.
Q: How much turkey breast should I buy per person?
A: For a main dish, plan for about 1/2 pound of turkey breast per person. This will ensure you have enough, with a little leftover for sandwiches or other recipes.
Q: What if the glaze starts to burn?
A: If the glaze begins to burn or caramelize too quickly, simply cover the turkey with foil to prevent further browning. You can also reduce the oven temperature by 25°F (14°C) to slow down the caramelization process.
Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast
- Total Time: 120
- Yield: 8
Description
Elevate your holiday table with this juicy, tender Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast. The sweet-tart glaze made with fresh cranberries and orange zest creates a stunning, flavorful crust that complements the moist, savory turkey perfectly.
Ingredients
– 1 (6-8 lb) bone-in turkey breast
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup fresh cranberries
– 1/2 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp orange zest
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
1. 1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Pat the turkey breast dry and rub all over with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. 2. Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan and roast for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
3. 3. In a small saucepan, combine the cranberries, orange juice, brown sugar, and orange zest. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened.
4. 4. Remove the turkey from the oven and brush the cranberry orange glaze all over the top and sides. Return to the oven and roast for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the glaze is caramelized.
5. 5. Transfer the turkey to a cutting board and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
For best results, use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey is cooked through. The glaze can also be served on the side for dipping. Leftover turkey can be used in sandwiches, soups, or casseroles.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 105
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
This Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast is a true showstopper that’s sure to impress your family and friends this Thanksgiving. With its perfect balance of sweet and tart, and the juicy, tender turkey, it’s a dish that will have everyone reaching for seconds. So why not give this recipe a try and create your own cherished Thanksgiving memories? I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you!
