Cranberry Glazed BBQ Turkey Breast

why make this recipe

Cranberry Glazed BBQ Turkey Breast is a delightful dish that brings a unique twist to traditional turkey recipes. The combination of sweet cranberry sauce with savory BBQ flavors creates a delicious glaze that takes the turkey to the next level. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or family gatherings.

Moreover, this turkey breast is easy to prepare and does not require extensive cooking skills. With just a few ingredients and steps, you can impress your family and friends with a flavorful and juicy turkey that everyone will enjoy.

equipment needed for Cranberry Glazed BBQ Turkey Breast

To make this scrumptious recipe, you’ll need a few essential tools.

A large rimmed baking sheet is necessary to catch any drippings while the turkey cooks.
Aluminum foil will help to shape a roasting rack for even cooking.
A microwave-safe bowl is needed to prepare the cranberry BBQ glaze.
Finally, an instant-read thermometer is vital to ensure that your turkey is cooked perfectly.

What You Need to Make Cranberry Glazed BBQ Turkey Breast

2 Tbsp. butter, softened
1 (.87-oz.) packet McCormick Turkey Gravy
1 (5.5-lb.) whole bone-in turkey breast
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
3/4 cup jellied cranberry sauce
3 Tbsp. dark brown sugar
2 Tbsp. light corn syrup
1 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar
2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
2 tsp. dijon mustard
1 3/4 tsp. smoked paprika

How to Cook Cranberry Glazed BBQ Turkey Breast Step by Step

Begin by preheating your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. This high temperature is essential for giving the turkey skin a beautiful golden color. Next, in a small bowl, stir together the softened butter and the turkey gravy packet, ensuring that the mixture is well combined.

Take a large piece of aluminum foil and roll it into a long rope. Fold this rope into an oval shape and place it in the center of a rimmed baking sheet. This will create a resting spot for the turkey, allowing it to cook evenly. Nestle the turkey breast on top of the foil, ensuring it sits flat.

Now, it’s time to prepare the turkey. Gently lift the skin on the turkey breast using your fingers—it should come up easily. Rub the butter and gravy mixture under the skin, letting it coat the meat. This will infuse flavor into the turkey. Season the turkey generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance its taste.

Place the turkey in the preheated oven and let it cook for about 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the skin turns a beautiful golden brown. While the turkey cooks, prepare the cranberry BBQ glaze. In a medium heatproof bowl, combine the jellied cranberry sauce, brown sugar, corn syrup, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, dijon mustard, and smoked paprika. Microwave this mixture, whisking every 30 seconds until it’s smooth and well combined. This usually takes about two minutes on high.

As the turkey continues to roast, decrease the oven temperature to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Take the cranberry glaze you prepared and generously brush it over the top of the turkey breast. Continue to roast the turkey, brushing it with the glaze every 15 minutes. Make sure to monitor the internal temperature of the turkey using an instant-read thermometer. It should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit in the thickest part of the breast.

If you notice the glaze is darkening too fast, tent the turkey loosely with foil to prevent burning. The total cooking time should be approximately 50 minutes to one hour after reducing the oven temperature. Once done, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful turkey.

how to make Cranberry Glazed BBQ Turkey Breast

Making Cranberry Glazed BBQ Turkey Breast is straightforward. Start with gathering all your ingredients and equipment. Prepping the turkey and making the glaze are simple tasks that yield impressive results.

First, preheat your oven and prepare the butter and gravy mixture. Commitment to seasoning is crucial. The butter and gravy mix should be carefully rubbed under the skin to get that flavor deep into the meat.

Next, shape your foil to support the turkey and place it in the baking sheet. Allowing the turkey to bake at a high temperature initially helps achieve a crispy skin, which is an important part of the overall flavor and texture.

Don’t forget to make the glaze while the turkey is cooking. The microwave makes this step quick and easy. Once the coating is on, keep basting every 15 minutes to build flavor and color.

After cooking, remember to let the turkey rest. This step is often overlooked. Your patience will pay off when you slice into a juicy, tender turkey at the end.

how to serve Cranberry Glazed BBQ Turkey Breast

Once your Cranberry Glazed BBQ Turkey Breast is ready, slicing it is the next important step. Make sure to use a sharp knife to cut even slices. This will help preserve the juicy texture and keep the glaze intact.

Presentation is key when serving your guests. Arrange the sliced turkey on a large platter. Drizzle some of the leftover glaze over the top for added flavor and visual appeal. You can also garnish the platter with fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary for a beautiful finishing touch.

Serve the turkey alongside its fixing. It pairs excellently with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. Make sure to provide additional cranberry sauce on the side, as many enjoy an extra scoop.

what to serve with Cranberry Glazed BBQ Turkey Breast

Cranberry Glazed BBQ Turkey Breast has a fantastic flavor profile that pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to consider:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the rich flavors of the turkey and allow for delicious sauce absorption.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, and green beans, add color and nutrients to the meal.
Stuffing: A classic stuffing with herbs and spices makes a wonderful addition, completing a traditional holiday feast.
Green Salad: A fresh garden salad with a balsamic vinaigrette balances the heft of the turkey and sides nicely.
Cranberry Sauce: Additional cranberry sauce can enhance the sweet and savory notes of the dish.

Mix and match these sides based on preferences and occasions to create a well-rounded meal.

how to store Cranberry Glazed BBQ Turkey Breast

Properly storing leftover Cranberry Glazed BBQ Turkey Breast is essential to maintain its flavor and prevent spoilage. If you have any leftovers, allow the turkey to cool to room temperature before storing.

Place the sliced turkey in an airtight container. Make sure to include any extra glaze in the container as well. This will help keep the meat moist when reheating. If you prefer, you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

Store the turkey in the refrigerator for up to three to four days. For longer storage, you can freeze the turkey. Wrap it in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When stored this way, it can last for up to three months.

tips to make Cranberry Glazed BBQ Turkey Breast

Choosing the Right Turkey Breast: Opt for a bone-in turkey breast as it is juicier than a boneless cut. The bone helps retain moisture during cooking.
Marinating: If you have time, consider marinating the turkey overnight in the butter and seasoning mix. This adds more flavor and improves tenderness.
Monitoring Cooking Time: Always check the internal temperature with an instant-read thermometer. This ensures safe consumption and prevents overcooking.
Basting: Regularly brush the glaze over the turkey every 15 minutes to build layers of flavor. This ensures that each bite is as delicious as the last.
Resting Period: Do not skip the resting period after cooking. This step is crucial for juicy turkey meat and should not be rushed.

variation

There are a few variations you can try with this recipe if you want to switch things up.

Spicy Glaze: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the cranberry glaze to give it a kick.
Herb-Infused Butter: Mix in some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the butter before rubbing it under the skin for added depth.
Different Sweeteners: Instead of brown sugar, you can use honey or maple syrup for the glaze to create a different sweetness profile.

Feel free to experiment and find the combination that your family and friends enjoy the most.

best time to make Cranberry Glazed BBQ Turkey Breast

Cranberry Glazed BBQ Turkey Breast is ideal for holiday gatherings and special occasions. It’s perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas celebrations, serving as a delightful alternative to ham or traditional turkey preparations.

However, this dish is also perfect for Sunday dinners or family reunions at any time of year. When you want something flavorful, yet easy to make, reach for this recipe any time.

common mistakes to avoid

When making Cranberry Glazed BBQ Turkey Breast, there are a few common mistakes you should avoid:

Not Checking the Temperature: One of the biggest mistakes is not using an instant-read thermometer to check the turkey’s internal temperature. This can lead to overcooking or undercooking the meat.
Skipping the Rest Period: Failing to let the turkey rest before slicing can result in dry meat. Ensure to let it sit for at least 15 minutes for best results.
Overbasting: While it’s essential to baste the turkey with glaze, overbasting can lead to a burnt exterior. Stick to a schedule of every 15 minutes.
Not Seasoning Generously: Make sure to season the turkey well with salt and pepper. This step can greatly enhance the overall taste.

nutritional notes

Cranberry Glazed BBQ Turkey Breast is a flavorful option for those looking for a protein-rich dish. Turkey is low in fat and high in protein, making it an excellent choice for a healthy meal. The addition of cranberry sauce adds some natural sweetness and provides antioxidants. However, be mindful of the sugar content in the glaze, particularly if you’re watching your sugar intake.

FAQs

Can I use a boneless turkey breast for this recipe?
Yes, you can use a boneless turkey breast, but note that it may cook faster and may require some adjustments to cooking time. Make sure to check the internal temperature.

Can I prepare the glaze in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cranberry BBQ glaze ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it before using.

Is this recipe suitable for leftovers?
Yes, this turkey breast makes delicious leftovers. You can use it for sandwiches, salads, or simply reheated with sides for another meal.

conclusion

Cranberry Glazed BBQ Turkey Breast is an excellent choice for any occasion where you want to impress your guests while keeping things simple. The unique blend of flavors from the cranberry glaze brings an unexpected twist that elevates the dish from ordinary to extraordinary.

By following the easy steps laid out in this guide, you can create a juicy and flavorful turkey that everyone will love. Whether it’s for a holiday meal or a weekend gathering, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy delicious meals with effortless preparation while sharing quality time with loved ones. Happy cooking!