Imagine a holiday centerpiece so incredibly juicy and flavorful that it transforms an ordinary meal into an extraordinary culinary experience. This Roast Turkey Breast with Saucy Cranberry Sauce is not just another poultry dish – it's a symphony of sweet, savory, and aromatic flavors that will have everyone at your table begging for seconds. Whether you're planning a festive family dinner or a sophisticated weekend feast, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game and create memories that will last long after the last bite.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 (4-5 lb) turkey breast
- 2 cups cranberry sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, quartered
- Fresh thyme for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove turkey breast from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature.
- Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt, pepper, and cinnamon on all sides, ensuring even coverage.
- In a large roasting pan, drizzle olive oil and place quartered onions at the bottom to create a flavorful base for the turkey.
- Place the seasoned turkey breast skin-side up on top of the onions. If the breast has skin, ensure it's positioned to allow even browning.
- In a separate bowl, mix cranberry sauce with brown sugar to create a sweet and tangy glaze.
- Brush half of the cranberry mixture over the turkey breast before placing it in the oven.
- Roast the turkey breast for approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer at the thickest part.
- Baste the turkey with the remaining cranberry glaze during the last 30 minutes of cooking to enhance flavor and create a beautiful, glossy finish.
- Once cooked, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender meat.
- Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs before slicing and serving. Serve additional cranberry sauce on the side.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always let your turkey breast sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before roasting to ensure even cooking.
- Moisture Matters: Pat the turkey dry before seasoning to help achieve a beautifully crisp exterior.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Never guess doneness! Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.
- Basting Technique: The cranberry glaze not only adds flavor but helps create a stunning golden-brown finish.
- Resting is Crucial: Allow the turkey to rest for 15-20 minutes after cooking to lock in those precious juices and ensure maximum tenderness.
- Flavor Boosting: The onions at the bottom of the pan create a delicious base that adds depth to your turkey's flavor profile.
- Make Ahead Tip: You can prepare the cranberry glaze a day in advance to save time on cooking day.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 45g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 120mg
