Herb-Roasted Turkey with Cranberry-Thyme Glaze

This Herb-Roasted Turkey with Cranberry-Thyme Glaze is the ultimate centerpiece for festive dinners. Aromatic herbs, a savory roasted bird, and a sweet-tangy cranberry glaze combine to create a flavorful, show-stopping turkey that’s perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or any special occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe 🦃

🌿 Herbaceous & Savory: Thyme, rosemary, and sage give the turkey deep flavor.
🍒 Sweet & Tangy Glaze: Cranberries add a beautiful, flavorful shine.
⏱️ Perfectly Juicy: Roasted to golden perfection without drying out.
🍽️ Impressive Presentation: Restaurant-worthy look and taste.
🧄 Easy to Make: Simple techniques, big results.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Turkey:

• 1 whole turkey (10–12 lbs)
• 4 tbsp olive oil or softened butter
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 3–4 sprigs fresh rosemary
• 3–4 sprigs fresh thyme
• 2–3 sage leaves
• 4 garlic cloves, smashed

For the Cranberry-Thyme Glaze:

• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• ¼ cup honey
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
• ¼ cup orange juice
• Pinch of salt

Garnish:

• Fresh thyme sprigs
• Whole cranberries

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 – Prepare the Turkey

Pat the turkey dry and rub with olive oil or butter. Season generously with salt and pepper, and stuff the cavity with garlic, rosemary, thyme, and sage. Let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.

Step 2 – Make the Glaze

Combine cranberries, honey, brown sugar, thyme, orange juice, and a pinch of salt in a saucepan. Simmer until the cranberries burst and the glaze thickens slightly.

Step 3 – Roast the Turkey

Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Place turkey breast-side up on a roasting rack. Roast for 2.5–3 hours (about 13 minutes per pound), basting occasionally with cranberry-thyme glaze during the last hour.

Step 4 – Rest & Carve

Remove turkey from the oven and let rest for 20–30 minutes before carving to retain juices. Spoon remaining glaze over the top before serving.

Step 5 – Serve

Carve the turkey and arrange on a serving platter with roasted vegetables or stuffing. Garnish with fresh thyme and cranberries.

Expert Tips 💡

🌿 Let the turkey come to room temperature before roasting for even cooking.
🧄 Baste during the last hour only to prevent glaze from burning.
🍒 Make the glaze ahead and reheat slightly before basting.
🥩 Use a meat thermometer — breast: 165°F, thigh: 175°F.
🍽️ Tent with foil during resting to retain warmth and juices.

What to Serve With

• Classic stuffing or wild rice pilaf
• Roasted root vegetables (carrots, parsnips, potatoes)
• Green beans almondine or Brussels sprouts
• Cranberry sauce or mashed potatoes

FAQs

❓ Can I use frozen turkey?
Yes, fully thaw it in the fridge (allow 24 hours per 4–5 lbs) before roasting.

❓ Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Absolutely, prepare up to 2 days in advance and store in the refrigerator.

❓ How do I keep the turkey moist?
Brushing with butter or glaze and allowing it to rest after roasting ensures juicy meat.

Conclusion

This Herb-Roasted Turkey with Cranberry-Thyme Glaze is juicy, flavorful, and festive — perfect for holidays or family celebrations. The sweet-tangy glaze and aromatic herbs make it an unforgettable centerpiece. 🦃🍒🌿