Description

Cooking a turkey for the holidays can seem daunting, but with this foolproof method of roasting it in an oven-safe bag, you'll achieve a juicy and flavorful turkey every time. The bag helps lock in moisture, ensuring the turkey is tender, while the combination of butter, herbs, and vegetables infuses the bird with incredible flavors. Whether you're hosting a large gathering or a cozy family meal, this turkey recipe is a surefire way to impress your guests. Let’s dive into the steps to make the perfect oven-roasted turkey!

Ingredients

• 1 whole, fully thawed turkey (12-24 pounds)
• 1 large oven-safe plastic bag
• 2/3 cup softened butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons dried herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, and sage)
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 white onion, roughly chopped
• 3 celery stalks, roughly chopped
• 2 carrots, roughly chopped
• 1 tablespoon flour

Preparation Method

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. Adjust the oven rack so it’s positioned one level below the center, allowing enough space for the turkey to roast evenly without getting too close to the heat source.

Prepare the Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with minced garlic, salt, pepper, and your choice of dried herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, and sage). This aromatic mixture will be rubbed all over the turkey, adding moisture and flavor as it roasts.

Prep the Turkey: Remove the turkey from its packaging, taking out the neck and giblets from the cavity (you can save these for making stock or discard them). Tuck the turkey wings under the bird or tie them back with kitchen twine. This prevents the wings from burning during roasting.

Rub the Turkey: Using your hands, gently rub the butter mixture all over the turkey, including under the skin if possible. The butter will help keep the turkey skin crispy and golden, while the herbs and garlic will infuse the meat with flavor.

Prepare the Oven Bag: Take your large oven-safe plastic bag and sprinkle 1 tablespoon of flour inside. Shake the bag to coat the interior evenly with flour; this step helps prevent the bag from bursting during cooking. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the bottom of the bag to serve as a flavorful base for the turkey.

Bag the Turkey: Place the buttered turkey inside the prepared oven bag, resting it on top of the vegetables. Seal the bag tightly with the provided tie or a piece of kitchen string. Using scissors, cut a few small slits in the top of the bag to allow steam to escape. Place the bagged turkey in a large roasting pan.

Roast the Turkey: Cook the turkey according to its size:

For a 12-15 pound turkey, roast for 2 to 2.5 hours.
For a 15-20 pound turkey, roast for 2.5 to 3 hours.
For a 20-24 pound turkey, roast for 3 to 3.5 hours.
The turkey is fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F in the thickest part of the breast or thigh. Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure the turkey is done.

Rest the Turkey: Once the turkey has reached the proper internal temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest in the bag for about 20 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making the turkey even more tender and juicy.

Serve: After resting, carefully cut open the bag (watch out for the steam!) and transfer the turkey to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh herbs or roasted vegetables if desired, and carve your turkey for serving.

Tips and Conclusion

Bonus Tip:
To make the most out of the turkey drippings, consider using them to create a delicious gravy. Simply strain the drippings from the bag, and cook them down with a bit of flour and broth to make a rich, flavorful gravy that pairs perfectly with the turkey.

Conclusion:
This Oven-Roasted Turkey in a Bag method guarantees a moist, flavorful bird every time, with minimal effort. The turkey cooks in its own juices, ensuring that the meat stays tender, while the butter, herbs, and vegetables add depth to the flavor. With its easy preparation and foolproof results, this recipe is perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks alike. Serve it with your favorite holiday sides, and enjoy a meal that’s sure to be a centerpiece of any celebration!