Grilled Turkey with Cranberry Sauce Recipe
Introduction
If you’re looking for a comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for almost any occasion, Grilled Turkey with Cranberry Sauce should be at the top of your list. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, enjoying a weekend dinner, or simply craving a satisfying, lean protein, this recipe is sure to impress. The smoky, juicy grilled turkey paired with the tangy sweetness of homemade cranberry sauce creates a mouthwatering combination that you’ll want to revisit time and time again.
This dish is packed with protein, low in fat, and made with fresh, wholesome ingredients. It’s customizable, simple to prepare, and perfect for meal prep. You’ll learn how to grill the turkey breast to juicy perfection, create a vibrant homemade cranberry sauce, and serve up a meal that’s both healthy and comforting. Let’s dive into why this recipe is so amazing and how to make it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful & Versatile: Grilled turkey brings a smoky depth of flavor, while the cranberry sauce offers a delightful balance of tart and sweet. Together, they create a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed year-round.
- Healthy & Nutritious: Turkey breast is an excellent source of lean protein, and cranberries are rich in antioxidants. This dish is both delicious and nourishing.
- Quick & Easy: With only a few simple steps, you can have a hearty, flavorful meal ready in under an hour.
- Customizable: You can tweak the seasoning on the turkey, adjust the sweetness of the cranberry sauce, or add extra sides to suit your preferences.
Ingredients Breakdown
- Turkey Breast
Turkey breast is the perfect protein for this dish. It’s lean, versatile, and easy to cook. Whether you’re using boneless or bone-in turkey breast, grilling it will result in a juicy, smoky flavor. If you’re using a bone-in breast, make sure to cook it for a little longer to ensure the meat reaches the proper internal temperature. If you prefer, you can also substitute turkey for chicken or even a vegetarian option like tofu or tempeh. - Fresh Cranberries
The star of the sauce, fresh cranberries provide a tangy, slightly bitter flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory turkey. Cranberries are also packed with antioxidants, fiber, and vitamin C. If fresh cranberries aren’t available, you can use frozen cranberries—just thaw them before use. - Sugar
Sugar is added to the cranberry sauce to balance out the tartness of the cranberries. You can use granulated sugar, honey, or maple syrup, depending on your preference. For a lower-sugar option, you can substitute with stevia or a sugar alternative like monk fruit sweetener. - Orange Zest
Orange zest adds a fresh, citrusy note to the cranberry sauce, enhancing the flavors and giving the sauce a slightly sweet and fragrant aroma. You can use a zester or fine grater to scrape off the orange peel, but avoid the bitter white pith. - Water
Water is added to the cranberry sauce to help the cranberries break down as they cook. You can also use orange juice for added citrus flavor or apple juice for a milder sweetness. - Thyme
Thyme is a wonderful herb that complements both the turkey and the cranberry sauce. Its earthy, savory flavor adds depth to the turkey marinade and ties everything together. Fresh thyme is best, but dried thyme will work in a pinch. - Olive Oil
Olive oil helps to keep the turkey moist and aids in grilling. It also adds a bit of richness to the dish. You can substitute olive oil with vegetable oil or avocado oil if desired. - Salt and Pepper
Basic salt and pepper are the essential seasonings for the turkey. Be sure to season the turkey well to enhance the flavor before grilling.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Cranberry Sauce
Start by making the cranberry sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of fresh cranberries, 1 cup of water, 1/2 cup of sugar, and the zest of one orange. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally. The cranberries will burst and break down, and the sauce will thicken. Taste the sauce and adjust the sweetness if necessary by adding more sugar or sweetener. Remove from heat and set aside. - Prepare the Turkey Breast
While the cranberry sauce is simmering, prepare the turkey breast. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the turkey breast and season generously with salt, pepper, and fresh thyme. You can also add a pinch of garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor. Let the turkey sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to allow the seasoning to absorb. - Grill the Turkey
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the turkey breast on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side (for boneless), or 12-15 minutes per side (for bone-in), until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the turkey breast in a grill pan or on a stovetop, using a bit of olive oil to sear the meat. - Rest the Turkey
Once the turkey is cooked through, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the meat stays tender and moist. - Slice and Serve
Slice the turkey breast against the grain into thin slices. Serve the turkey slices with a generous spoonful of the homemade cranberry sauce. Garnish with additional fresh thyme or herbs of your choice. - Optional Sides
If you’d like to make this meal even more satisfying, consider serving it with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed sweet potatoes, or a simple salad.
Tips and Variations
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the cranberry sauce for a spicy twist.
- Use a Baste: During grilling, brush the turkey with some of the cranberry sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
- For a Creamier Sauce: Stir in a tablespoon of butter or a splash of heavy cream to the cranberry sauce for a richer texture.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so feel free to pair it with gluten-free sides or serve it with gluten-free bread.
- Turkey Alternatives: If you prefer, you can substitute the turkey with chicken breasts or thighs, or even grill some plant-based protein like tempeh for a vegetarian version.
Serving Suggestions
- Sides: Pair the turkey with roasted Brussels sprouts, a green salad, or roasted root vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Garnishes: Fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary add a fragrant touch. A drizzle of extra cranberry sauce or a squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten the dish.
- Drinks: Serve with a glass of white wine like Chardonnay, or a refreshing iced tea with lemon to complement the savory flavors.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Fridge: Store leftover turkey and cranberry sauce in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezer: You can freeze the turkey for up to 2-3 months. Wrap the turkey in plastic wrap or foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the turkey in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or microwave it in short bursts. Reheat the cranberry sauce in a saucepan over low heat.
Recipe Notes
- Can Be Prepped Ahead of Time: You can make the cranberry sauce up to 3 days in advance and store it in the fridge. The turkey can also be grilled and sliced ahead of time, just store it properly and reheat when ready to serve.
- Best with Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme really elevates the flavor of the turkey, but dried thyme can be used if fresh isn’t available.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid overcooking the turkey, use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) for optimal juiciness.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Sugar | 13 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Protein | 40 g |
| Sodium | 620 mg |
| Cholesterol | 100 mg |
| Calcium | 30 mg |
| Iron | 2 mg |
Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Recipe Card Summary
- Course: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-30 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 lb turkey breast
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 orange, zested
- 1 cup water
- 2 tbsp fresh thyme
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Make the cranberry sauce by simmering cranberries, sugar, water, and orange zest.
- Prepare the turkey breast by seasoning it with olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Grill the turkey until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let the turkey rest, then slice and serve with cranberry sauce.
- Enjoy!
Notes
- Can be prepped ahead of time.
- Best with freshly cooked turkey and homemade cranberry sauce.
Health Benefits
- Turkey: Lean protein that helps build and repair muscles and supports metabolism.
- Cranberries: Rich in antioxidants, fiber, and vitamin C, helping support immunity and digestion.
- Orange Zest: Adds a fresh burst of citrus that enhances the flavor of the cranberry sauce and provides additional vitamin C.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?
Yes, frozen cranberries can be used in place of fresh cranberries. Just be sure to thaw them first. - Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, both the turkey and cranberry sauce can be made ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve. - Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, chicken breasts or thighs work well in place of turkey. Adjust the cooking time accordingly. - Can I make the cranberry sauce without sugar?
Yes, you can substitute the sugar with honey, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute if you prefer a lower-sugar option. - How long does the cranberry sauce last?
The cranberry sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. - How can I make this dish spicier?
Add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the cranberry sauce for an added kick.
Final Thoughts
Grilled Turkey with Cranberry Sauce is a dish that brings comfort, flavor, and nutrition all in one. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Let me know how it turns out for you in the comments below!
