South Dakota Cranberry-Glazed Grilled Turkey

Introduction

If you're looking for a show-stopping grilled turkey recipe with rich flavor and beautiful presentation, this South Dakota Cranberry-Glazed Grilled Turkey Breast is exactly that. Using the Arteflame grill ensures a juicy, tender interior and steakhouse-seared exterior thanks to its ultra-hot center grate and precision cooking zones. Whether you're cooking for a family get-together or just want to elevate your weekend grilling, this recipe brings smoky, sweet, and savory flavors together in perfect harmony.

Ingredients

• 1 boneless skin-on turkey breast (4–5 lbs)
• 2 cups cranberry sauce (whole berry or smooth)
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter (for griddle cooking)
• Fresh cranberries and herbs (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour a bit of vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them into the center of the Arteflame grill.
2. Stack dry firewood over the napkins, light them, and let the grill heat up for about 20 minutes until the center grate reaches around 1,000°F.

Step 2: Make the Cranberry Glaze

1. In a mixing bowl, combine cranberry sauce, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, rosemary, and apple cider vinegar.
2. Whisk well until fully blended. This will be your glaze and marinade.

Step 3: Marinate the Turkey

1. Place the turkey breast in a zip-top bag or a shallow dish.
2. Pour half of the cranberry glaze over the turkey. Reserve the other half for basting and serving later.
3. Marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.

Step 4: Sear the Turkey

1. Remove the turkey from marinade and pat dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.
2. Place the turkey breast skin-side down on the center grill grate for 2–3 minutes per side until a golden-brown crust develops from the 1,000°F grate.

Step 5: Finish Cooking on Flat Top

1. Move the turkey to the flat cooktop griddle, placing it closer to the middle for medium-high heat zones.
2. Add butter under and around the breast to keep it moist and build flavor.
3. Using an instant-read thermometer, cook the turkey until it reaches 150°F internal temperature (it will carry over cook to 165°F).
4. Baste with reserved cranberry glaze during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a rich, shiny finish.

Step 6: Rest and Slice

1. Remove turkey from the grill and let it rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.
2. Garnish with fresh cranberries and rosemary sprigs for presentation.

Tips

• Always sear your meat on the center grill grate for the juiciest results.
• Use a digital thermometer to avoid overcooking; pull the turkey off the grill at 150°F.
• Rotate the turkey occasionally for even cooking on the flat top.
• Baste frequently to intensify the cranberry flavor and keep the breast moist.
• Use butter instead of oil — it caramelizes beautifully on the Arteflame’s steel griddle.

Variations

• Spicy Cranberry Turkey: Add 1 tbsp chipotle in adobo to the glaze for a smoky heat.
• Citrus Herb Glazed Turkey: Replace cranberry sauce with orange marmalade and fresh thyme for a bright, herbal profile.
• Bourbon Cranberry Turkey: Stir in 2 tbsp bourbon to the glaze for a deep, warming depth.
• Garlic-Butter Herb Turkey: Use a garlic-butter rub instead of glaze, finishing with fresh parsley and lemon zest.
• Pomegranate Glazed Turkey: Replace cranberry with pomegranate molasses and garnish with pomegranate seeds for a sweet-tart finish.

Best Pairings

• Grilled Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze
• Smoked sweet potatoes with cinnamon butter
• Griddled corn cakes made on the Arteflame's flat top
• Dry Riesling or Pinot Noir for an ideal wine pairing
• Grilled cranberry cornbread with a honey butter drizzle

Conclusion

Grilling on the Arteflame creates a stunning turkey breast with a complex mix of sweet, tart, and umami – perfectly seared, evenly cooked, and always juicy. Try this South Dakota Cranberry-Glazed Grilled Turkey Breast recipe for your next BBQ and impress everyone with beautifully grilled flavors only achievable on the Arteflame.