Description
This Perfect Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast is a show-stopping main dish for any festive gathering. Juicy, tender turkey breast is roasted to perfection and glazed with a sticky-sweet, citrusy cranberry sauce that’s packed with holiday flavor. Whether you’re looking for a smaller Thanksgiving turkey alternative or a new favorite for your dinner rotation, this easy recipe brings together seasonal ingredients and bold flavor with minimal effort. Ideal for special dinners, holiday parties, and quick holiday meal ideas, it’s a must-save for anyone looking for delicious food ideas that impress.
Ingredients
1 boneless turkey breast (about 3 pounds)
2 cups fresh cranberries
1 cup orange juice
1 tablespoon orange zest
1/3 cup maple syrup
1 clove garlic, minced
1 sprig fresh rosemary
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh thyme and orange slices for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, maple syrup, garlic, and rosemary.
2. Simmer for 10–15 minutes until cranberries burst and mixture thickens. Remove rosemary and let glaze cool slightly.
3. Preheat oven to 350°F. Pat turkey dry, season with salt and pepper, and rub with softened butter.
4. Place in a metal roasting pan or cast iron skillet. Roast uncovered for 60–75 minutes, brushing glaze halfway through and again near the end.
5. When internal temperature reaches 165°F, remove from oven and let rest 10–15 minutes.
6. Slice and spoon remaining glaze over the top. Garnish with thyme and orange slices if desired.
Notes
Let the glaze cool before brushing so it sticks better to the turkey.
Don’t skip the resting time after roasting—it keeps the meat juicy.
Use a metal pan for best browning and glaze consistency.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 75 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: cranberry orange turkey, glazed turkey breast, holiday turkey, thanksgiving dinner, easy turkey recipe, dinner ideas, quick holiday meal