Stuffed Turkey with Cranberry Ginger Sauce

Name: Stuffed Turkey with Cranberry Ginger Sauce
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 210 min
Total time: 260 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 1 whole turkey (4.5 kg (10 lbs), thawed if frozen); 1 cup butter (softened); 2 tablespoons salt; 1 tablespoon black pepper (freshly ground); 1 tablespoon dried thyme; 8 cups bread cubes (day-old or toasted); 1 cup onion (chopped); 1 cup celery (chopped); 2 tablespoons butter; 1 teaspoon dried sage; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups cranberries (fresh or frozen); 1 cup sugar; 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed); 1 tablespoon fresh ginger (grated); 1 teaspoon orange zest

260 min 8 servings Medium

All Recipes

A succulent stuffed turkey paired with a tangy cranberry ginger sauce, perfect for holiday gatherings.

Prep

30 min

Cook

210 min

Total

260 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Stuffed turkey is a classic centrepiece for festive occasions, bringing together the comforting aroma of roasted poultry with the delightful burst of a fruity sauce. The tangy cranberry and ginger sauce adds a modern twist to this traditional dish, providing a perfect balance to the savoury stuffing. Whether you're hosting a big family dinner or a small gathering, this stuffed turkey with cranberry ginger sauce will surely impress your guests. Each bite is a harmonious blend of flavours, making it a memorable culinary experience.

Instructions

Prepare the Turkey

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Rinse the turkey inside and out with cold water, then pat dry with paper towels. Rub the softened butter all over the turkey, including under the skin. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.

Make the Stuffing

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the onion and celery, cooking until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the bread cubes, sage, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the bread is moistened.

Pro tip: For extra flavour, toast the bread cubes before mixing them into the stuffing.

Stuff the Turkey

Loosely fill the cavity of the turkey with the prepared stuffing. Do not overstuff as the stuffing expands during cooking. Secure the legs with kitchen twine.

Pro tip: Leave some space for air to circulate inside the turkey for even cooking.

Roast the Turkey

Place the turkey breast side up on a rack in a roasting pan. Roast in the preheated oven for approximately 3.5 to 4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh and stuffing.

Pro tip: Baste the turkey every 45 minutes with pan juices for a golden brown skin.

Prepare the Cranberry Ginger Sauce

In a saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, grated ginger, and orange zest. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens, about 15 minutes.

Pro tip: For a smoother sauce, blend it with an immersion blender after cooking.

Rest and Serve

Once the turkey is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 20 minutes before carving. Serve with the prepared cranberry ginger sauce on the side.

Pro tip: Letting the turkey rest allows the juices to redistribute, making it more tender and juicy.

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Tips & Tricks

Use fresh or thawed turkey for best flavour.
Ensure stuffing reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Prepare the cranberry sauce a day ahead to enhance flavours.
Rest the turkey for at least 20 minutes before carving to lock in juices.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to make cranberry sauce for turkey?

Combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, ginger, and zest. Simmer until cranberries burst and sauce thickens.

How long should I cook a stuffed turkey?

Roast a 10 lb stuffed turkey at 325°F (165°C) for 3.5 to 4 hours.

What temperature should a stuffed turkey be cooked to?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh and stuffing.

Can I make the cranberry sauce in advance?

Yes, make the cranberry sauce up to a week in advance and store it in the fridge.

How can I ensure my turkey is not dry?

Baste the turkey every 45 minutes and let it rest for 20 minutes before carving to keep it juicy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this stuffed turkey with classic sides like mashed potatoes and green beans for a complete holiday meal. The cranberry ginger sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to a week, enhancing its flavour. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days. To reheat, cover the turkey with foil and warm in a low oven to prevent drying out. The sauce can be reheated gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed to reach the desired consistency.