Description

Say goodbye to dry turkey with this simple yet transformative cooking technique! Using an oven-safe roasting bag ensures your turkey stays juicy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked. Infused with aromatic herbs, garlic, and butter, this turkey is a showstopper for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion. Follow this foolproof recipe and prepare to wow your guests with the best turkey they've ever had!

Ingredients

• 1 whole, fully thawed turkey (12-24 pounds)
• 1 large oven-safe plastic roasting 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
• Pro Tip: Allow 24 hours of refrigerator thawing time for every 5 pounds of frozen turkey.

Preparation Method

Prepare the oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Position the oven rack one level below the center to accommodate the height of the turkey and ensure even cooking.

Make the butter mixture:
In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Add dried herbs for an extra layer of flavor. Mix until well blended.

Prepare the turkey:
Remove the turkey’s neck and giblets, often found in the body cavity. Tuck the wings under the turkey or tie them back with kitchen twine to prevent burning during roasting. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels.

Season the turkey:
Rub the turkey generously with the prepared butter mixture, ensuring you coat the breast, legs, and even under the skin where possible. This will lock in moisture and enhance flavor.

Prepare the roasting bag:
Add 1 tablespoon of flour to the interior of the oven-safe roasting bag and shake to coat evenly. This prevents the bag from bursting during cooking. Place the chopped onion, celery, and carrots into the bag to create a flavorful base for the turkey.

Place the turkey in the bag:
Carefully transfer the seasoned turkey into the roasting bag on top of the vegetables. Seal the bag securely and make a few small slits in the top to allow steam to escape.

Cook the turkey:
Place the bagged turkey into a large roasting pan. Roast according to the turkey’s weight:

12-15 pounds: 2 to 2.5 hours
15-20 pounds: 2.5 to 3 hours
20-24 pounds: 3 to 3.5 hours
Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast and thigh (without touching the bone) to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Rest the turkey:
Once cooked, remove the roasting pan from the oven and let the turkey rest in the bag for 20 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a tender and juicy turkey.

Serve:
Carefully cut open the bag and transfer the turkey to a serving platter. Discard the vegetables from the bag or use them to enhance your gravy. Slice, serve, and enjoy the best turkey of your life!

Tips and Conclusion

Herb variations: Use fresh herbs like parsley, sage, and thyme for an even more vibrant flavor.
Flavor boosters: Add a splash of white wine or chicken stock to the bag for an aromatic steam effect.
Gravy tip: Use the flavorful juices collected in the bag to make an incredible gravy. Simply strain and thicken with a roux or cornstarch slurry.

This ultimate turkey recipe ensures a perfectly moist and flavorful centerpiece for any holiday table. By using the oven-safe bag technique, you’ll save time and stress while delivering a dish that’s sure to impress. Pair it with classic sides like stuffing, mashed potatoes, or cranberry sauce for a feast to remember. Explore more holiday recipes on our site and make this season extra special. Happy cooking! 🎉🦃