There is something truly magical about the Savory Roast Turkey Breast with Saucy Cranberry Bliss Recipe—it brings together tender, juicy turkey breast and a luscious, tangy cranberry sauce that feels like a hug on a plate. This dish is a stunning centerpiece for any gathering, delivering classic flavors with a wonderful twist, balancing savory herbs and buttery richness with bright cranberry zing. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a special Sunday dinner, this recipe offers comforting, festive flavors that will keep everyone asking for seconds and sharing smiles around the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet thoughtfully chosen to create layers of flavor and texture in the Savory Roast Turkey Breast with Saucy Cranberry Bliss Recipe. Each one plays a crucial role, from the fresh herbs that infuse the turkey with aromatic warmth to the cranberries and orange juice that add a bright and tangy contrast, creating a perfectly balanced dish.
- Cranberries (3 cups fresh or frozen): Provide the tart base for the deliciously saucy cranberry bliss that complements the turkey beautifully.
- Orange juice (1 cup, freshly squeezed): Adds a natural sweetness and citrus brightness to lift the sauce.
- Apple jelly (1 cup): Brings moisturizing sweetness and a smooth texture to the cranberry sauce.
- Five spice (0.5 teaspoon): Offers warm, subtle complexity to the sauce with its blend of cinnamon, cloves, and star anise.
- Cornstarch (3 tablespoons): Thickens the cranberry sauce to a perfect, luscious consistency.
- Turkey breast (4 pounds with skin): The star of the show—choose a well-marbled breast for juicy, tender meat.
- Fresh rosemary (1 tablespoon, chopped): Infuses the turkey with fragrant piney notes that elevate the savory profile.
- Dried thyme (0.5 teaspoon): Adds depth and earthiness to the herb seasoning.
- Salt (0.5 teaspoon or to taste): Enhances all the flavors, making them pop beautifully.
- Pepper (0.25 teaspoon or to taste): Adds a gentle bite and warmth.
- Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons): Used to brown the turkey and onions, enriching the overall taste and texture.
- Onions (2 medium, chopped): Slowly caramelized to contribute sweetness and a savory base to the dish.
How to Make Savory Roast Turkey Breast with Saucy Cranberry Bliss Recipe
Step 1: Preparing Your Turkey and Herbs
Start by patting your turkey breast dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin during roasting. Next, mix the chopped rosemary, dried thyme, salt, and pepper in a small bowl and rub this fragrant herb blend all over the turkey breast, under and over the skin for maximum flavor infusion. This step is key for building the savory foundation that will shine through in every bite.
Step 2: Searing and Browning
Heat half of the unsalted butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the turkey breast skin-side down, letting it brown and crisp patiently for about 7 to 10 minutes. After achieving a rich golden color, flip it over briefly just to brown the other side. Browning seals in juices while building that irresistible roasted flavor and texture we all love.
Step 3: Roasting the Turkey
Transfer the skillet with the turkey into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Roast uncovered for about 75 to 90 minutes, or until a thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165°F (74°C). This slow roast will keep the turkey perfectly moist and tender, with that gorgeous golden skin we’re aiming for.
Step 4: Making the Saucy Cranberry Bliss
While your turkey roasts, melt the remaining butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, cooking gently until soft and caramelized. Stir in the fresh or frozen cranberries, orange juice, and apple jelly. Sprinkle in the five spice for a warming undertone, then simmer everything until the cranberries burst and the mixture becomes syrupy and vibrant. Whisk the cornstarch with a little cold water, stir it into the sauce to thicken, and simmer a few minutes more until gloriously glossy.
Step 5: Resting and Carving
Once the turkey is cooked, let it rest on a cutting board for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This step allows the juices to redistribute, so each slice is juicy and tender. Then, ladle the warm saucy cranberry bliss generously over the slices for the perfect marriage of savory and tangy flavors.
How to Serve Savory Roast Turkey Breast with Saucy Cranberry Bliss Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh sprigs of rosemary or thyme on the plate add a splash of vibrant green and a fresh herbal aroma that complements the dish wonderfully. A few whole cranberries scattered on top give a pop of color and hint at the sauce’s sweet and tart profile.
Side Dishes
This roast turkey breast pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables, or a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette. Choose sides that balance and contrast the rich, saucy turkey so every bite feels festive and balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
For a showstopping presentation, arrange the sliced turkey breast in a circular pattern on a large platter with the saucy cranberry bliss drizzled in the center and sides around it. Alternatively, serve individual portions with the sauce spooned over the top and a small sprig of rosemary for elegance and charm at the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover turkey breast and cranberry sauce in airtight containers and refrigerate promptly. Stored properly, they will keep fresh for 3 to 4 days, making for delicious next-day meals or snacks.
Freezing
You can freeze sliced turkey breast and cranberry sauce separately in freezer-safe containers or bags. This allows you to thaw just what you need. For best results, consume within 2 months to retain optimal flavor and texture.
Reheating
Reheat turkey slices gently in the oven at low heat or in a pan over medium-low heat to keep from drying out. Warm the cranberry sauce separately in a saucepan until bubbly, then pour it over the turkey for a fresh, saucy finish.
FAQs
Can I use frozen turkey breast for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to fully thaw the turkey breast in the refrigerator before preparing to ensure even cooking and juicy results.
Is the five spice really necessary?
While optional, five spice adds a subtle warmth and complexity that elevates the cranberry sauce beautifully. If you don’t have it, cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg can be a nice substitute.
Can I make the cranberry sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the cranberry bliss can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving for maximum flavor.
How do I know when the turkey is perfectly cooked?
The most reliable way is using a meat thermometer; once the thickest part reaches 165°F (74°C), it’s safe and ready to rest before slicing.
Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
Definitely! Just adjust the roasting time accordingly and consider roasting multiple breasts or using a larger pan to ensure even cooking.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like sharing a homemade meal that impresses and comforts at the same time, and the Savory Roast Turkey Breast with Saucy Cranberry Bliss Recipe does just that. It’s a perfect dish to bring warmth to your table, embrace seasonal flavors, and create lasting memories with loved ones. Give it a try—your taste buds and guests will thank you for it!
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Savory Roast Turkey Breast with Saucy Cranberry Bliss Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Total Time: 110 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings (6 slices each)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Description
A deliciously savory roast turkey breast served with a luscious, tangy cranberry sauce that balances citrusy and spiced notes for a perfect holiday centerpiece or special family meal.
Ingredients
For the Cranberry Sauce
- 3 cups cranberries (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 cup apple jelly
- 0.5 teaspoon five spice
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
For the Turkey Breast
- 4 pounds turkey breast (with skin)
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (chopped)
- 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme
- 0.5 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 0.25 teaspoon pepper (or to taste)
- 4 tablespoons butter (unsalted)
- 2 medium onions (chopped)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cranberry Sauce: In a saucepan, combine the cranberries, orange juice, apple jelly, and five spice. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally until the cranberries start to burst and the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the cranberry mixture and cook for another 2-3 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature ensures slow, even cooking for the turkey breast, allowing it to stay juicy and tender.
- Prepare the Turkey Breast: Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, combine the chopped fresh rosemary, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Rub this herb mixture all over the turkey breast, including under the skin where possible for extra flavor.
- Sear the Turkey Breast: In a large oven-safe skillet or roasting pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Place the turkey breast on top of the onions and sear on all sides until golden brown, approximately 3-4 minutes per side. This step locks in juices and adds a beautiful crust.
- Roast the Turkey: Transfer the skillet or roasting pan to the preheated oven. Roast the turkey breast for about 75-90 minutes, or until an internal thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165°F (74°C). Baste occasionally with the pan juices to keep the meat moist.
- Rest the Turkey: Remove the turkey breast from the oven and transfer it to a cutting board. Tent loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for 15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring moist and tender slices.
- Serve: Slice the turkey breast into 6 to 6 thick slices and serve hot with a generous spoonful of the saucy cranberry bliss on the side or drizzled over the meat for a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors.
Notes
- You can use fresh or frozen cranberries for the sauce; just thaw frozen cranberries before cooking.
- Adjust salt and pepper seasoning according to your taste preference.
- Using a meat thermometer is highly recommended to avoid overcooking the turkey breast.
- The five spice powder in the cranberry sauce adds a subtle warmth and complexity—feel free to adjust or omit if you prefer a milder sauce.
- Leftover cranberry sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days and used as a spread or condiment.
