Roasted Turkey Sheet Pan Dinner with Cranberries and Lemon-Herb Potatoes

Fall is the perfect season to break out comforting, hearty dishes, and what better way to celebrate than with a one-pan wonder that brings the flavors of Thanksgiving to your table in under an hour? This Roasted Turkey Sheet Pan Dinner combines juicy turkey breast, crispy baby potatoes, zesty lemons, and tart cranberries for a delightful balance of savory and sweet.

Not only is this dish delicious, but it’s also a breeze to prepare and clean up. Sheet pan meals are my go-to on busy weeknights because they make cooking more efficient without sacrificing flavor. Plus, this dish looks absolutely stunning when presented—perfect for a cozy family dinner or even a small gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

All in one: Protein, veggies, and fruit roast together for a balanced, easy dinner.
Minimal cleanup: Fewer dishes to wash means more time to relax.
Burst of flavor: Fresh herbs, tart cranberries, and lemon elevate the turkey and potatoes.
Perfect for meal prep: Leftovers store and reheat beautifully.

Ingredients:

1 lb turkey breast tenderloin, sliced
1 lb baby potatoes (Yukon Gold or fingerling work well)
1/2 cup fresh cranberries
1 lemon, sliced
2-3 sprigs of fresh rosemary
2-3 sprigs of fresh thyme
3 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional garnish: fresh parsley

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats up, line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
Prepare the Turkey and Potatoes:
- Slice your turkey breast into even, 1/2-inch slices for quick and even cooking.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the baby potatoes with 1.5 tbsp olive oil, garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure the potatoes are well coated with the spices.
Assemble the Sheet Pan:
- Arrange the seasoned potatoes and turkey slices on the sheet pan. Space them out so they roast evenly.
- Scatter lemon slices, fresh cranberries, rosemary, and thyme sprigs around the turkey and potatoes. The lemon will add a bright, tangy flavor, while the cranberries offer a pop of tartness that complements the savory ingredients.
- Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the turkey, and season the meat with a bit of salt and pepper.
Roast:
- Place the sheet pan in the oven and roast for 25-30 minutes. Halfway through cooking (about 15 minutes in), give the potatoes a stir to ensure even roasting.
- The turkey should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), and the potatoes should be golden and fork-tender.
Serve:
- Once roasted to perfection, remove the sheet pan from the oven. Let the turkey rest for a few minutes before slicing further if needed.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley and an extra squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

Tips for Success:

Even Slicing: Slice the turkey evenly to ensure all pieces cook at the same rate.
Crisp Potatoes: If you want extra crispy potatoes, preheat the sheet pan in the oven before adding the ingredients. This helps create a nice golden crust.
Add a Veggie: For extra nutrients, feel free to add Brussels sprouts, green beans, or carrots to the sheet pan!

Substitutions and Variations:

Chicken instead of turkey: If turkey breast isn’t available, you can easily substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs.
Sweet potatoes: Swap the baby potatoes for cubed sweet potatoes for a sweeter flavor and a boost of fiber.
Dried cranberries: If fresh cranberries are out of season, dried cranberries can be used but reduce the quantity to avoid an overly sweet dish.

This turkey sheet pan dinner is a simple yet elegant meal that packs a ton of flavor. The cranberries and lemon add a brightness that pairs beautifully with the hearty turkey and potatoes, making it a perfect balance of fall flavors. Plus, the easy preparation and cleanup make it ideal for weeknights. Enjoy this dish with a glass of your favorite white wine or a spiced apple cider, and embrace the cozy warmth of fall!

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