Why make this recipe
Turkey Breast with Cranberry-Orange Glaze is a wonderful dish that brings festive flavors to your table. The combination of tart cranberry and sweet orange creates a delicious glaze that enhances the turkey’s natural flavors. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or any special occasion. Not only is it tasty, but it’s also simple to make, making it great for cooks of all skill levels.
How to make Turkey Breast with Cranberry-Orange Glaze
Ingredients
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 tbsp honey
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Olive oil (for rubbing the turkey)
- Orange juice and zest (amount to taste)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375 °F (190 °C).
- In a bowl, whisk together cranberry sauce, orange juice and zest, and honey until smooth.
- Pat the turkey dry and rub with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper.
- Place the turkey breast (skin-side up) in a baking dish and pour the glaze evenly over it.
- Roast for about 60 minutes, basting occasionally with pan juices for extra flavor.
- Check the internal temperature—it should reach 165 °F (74 °C); if not, roast for another 10–15 minutes.
- Remove the turkey, let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
- Slice against the grain and serve with remaining glaze.
How to serve Turkey Breast with Cranberry-Orange Glaze
Serve the turkey breast warm, drizzled with the leftover cranberry-orange glaze. Pair it with sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. This dish also works well as a main course for a festive buffet.
How to store Turkey Breast with Cranberry-Orange Glaze
To store leftovers, allow the turkey to cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the turkey for up to 2 months. If freezing, wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.
Tips to make Turkey Breast with Cranberry-Orange Glaze
- For more flavor, marinate the turkey in the glaze for a few hours or overnight.
- Make sure to baste the turkey every 15-20 minutes while it roasts to keep it moist.
- Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can be added to the glaze for extra aroma.
Variation
You can switch up the glaze by adding spices like cinnamon or ginger for a different flavor profile. Other fruits like apple or pear can also be blended into the glaze for a fruity twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use a frozen turkey breast?
Yes, you can use a frozen turkey breast, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
2. How do I know when the turkey is done cooking?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165 °F (74 °C).
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the glaze and rub the turkey a day before. Just cover and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook.
Turkey Breast with Cranberry-Orange Glaze
Ingredients
For the glaze
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 tbsp honey
- to taste orange juice and zest
For the turkey
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for rubbing the turkey
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375 °F (190 °C).
- In a bowl, whisk together cranberry sauce, orange juice and zest, and honey until smooth.
- Pat the turkey dry and rub with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper.
Cooking
- Place the turkey breast (skin-side up) in a baking dish and pour the glaze evenly over it.
- Roast for about 60 minutes, basting occasionally with pan juices for extra flavor.
- Check the internal temperature—it should reach 165 °F (74 °C); if not, roast for another 10–15 minutes.
- Remove the turkey, let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
- Slice against the grain and serve with remaining glaze.
