**Cranberry and Rosemary Roasted Turkey: Enchant Your Guests with a Classic Recipe 🦃🌿**
Speaking about classic festive meals, nothing beats the tasteful combination of a Cranberry and Rosemary Roasted Turkey. This heartwarming dish filled with delightful aromas and flavors forms the perfect centerpiece for Thanksgiving dinners and family get-togethers.
## **Why Make This Recipe**
The real magic in this recipe lies in the interplay between savored juicy turkey and the sweet-tart taste of cranberries complemented by the aromatic feel of rosemary leaves. Not only is this meal a feast for the eyes and a treat for the taste buds, but it also provides a rush of nutrients making it a healthy choice as well.
## **How to Make Cranberry and Rosemary Roasted Turkey**
With a preparation time of around 20 minutes and a total time of approximately three hours and twenty minutes, you can serve this tasteful feast to 8-10 guests.
## **Ingredients**
– 1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds), thawed
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 onion, quartered
– 1 lemon, quartered
– 4 cloves garlic, smashed
– 1/2 cup chicken or turkey broth
## **Directions**
Follow these straightforward steps to maximize the attainable flavors, ensuring you end up with a moist, flavor-infused turkey.
1. Preheat your oven at 325°F (165°C).
2. Dry pat the turkey using paper towels and loosen the skin over the breasts.
3. Make a mix of softened butter, rosemary, salt, and pepper and rub it both under the skin and over the turkey.
4. Stuff the turkey with cranberries, onion, lemon, and garlic.
5. Place the turkey on a roasting rack set inside a pan and pour the broth at the bottom of the pan.
6. Roast it until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) in the densest part of the thigh – about three hours for a 12-14 pound turkey.
7. Give your roasted turkey a rest of approximately 20 minutes before carving.
## **How to Serve Cranberry and Rosemary Roasted Turkey**
You can serve slices of this rich turkey with gravy and classic side dishes such as mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, sweet potatoes, and stuffing for a complete feast.
## **How to Store Cranberry and Rosemary Roasted Turkey**
Once cool, slice the leftover turkey and store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator. It usually stays good for 3-4 days.
## **Tips to Make Cranberry and Rosemary Roasted Turkey**
– For extra crispness, rub the turkey with a little bit of olive oil along with the butter mixture.
– Be sure not to overcook as it can make the meat dry.
– To ensure even cooking, it’s advisable to wrap the tips of the wings and drumsticks in foil.
## **FAQs**
– **Can I use dried rosemary instead?** Yes, however, fresh rosemary is recommended for optimal flavor.
– **What if I don’t have fresh cranberries?** You can use canned cranberries as an alternative, providing roughly the same zest.
– **How do I know when my turkey is fully cooked?** Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The turkey is properly cooked when the thickest part of the thigh hits 165°F (75°C).
Cook yourself this savory Cranberry and Rosemary Roasted Turkey for an unforgettable culinary experience. Enjoy your meal!