Orange Cranberry Turkey
Tender turkey breast simmered in a flavorful orange cranberry sauce, offering a perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and spiced flavors—ideal for family dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large kettle or covered pan, bring the cranberry sauce, chopped onion, orange juice, cinnamon, and salt to a boil.
- Reduce heat and add the turkey breast.
- Cover and simmer for 1 1/2 to 2 hours or until turkey is fork-tender.
- Remove the turkey and let it stand for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Cook the remaining liquid down or thicken with flour to make a sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the sauce. If you prefer a sweeter taste, substitute the orange juice with a mix of orange juice and maple syrup. For a quicker option, use pre-cooked turkey slices. This recipe pairs well with sides like mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables, similar to those in American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the turkey sliced, drizzled with the cranberry-orange sauce. It pairs beautifully with roasted sweet potatoes or green beans for a festive meal. For a complete dinner, consider serving it alongside Healthy Macaroni Casserole or a fresh salad to balance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover turkey and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the turkey in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, ensuring it stays moist. The sauce can be warmed on the stove over low heat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange Cranberry Turkey contains roughly 462 calories, with 12g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1477mg per serving (64% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of canned sauce?
Yes, you can substitute fresh cranberries by cooking them down with sugar and orange juice until they burst and thicken. This will give your dish a fresher taste and a unique texture.
What should I do if the turkey isn't cooking evenly?
Ensure the turkey breast is thawed completely before cooking. If you notice uneven cooking, you can cover the pan with foil to help retain moisture and heat, ensuring it cooks through evenly.
Is there a way to make this dish in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the turkey moist.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).