Roasting turkey in a bag takes some of the guesswork out of the process.
We show you how from start to finish.
Rachel Marek
Cooking a turkey for Thanksgiving can be a daunting task.
Credit:Rachel Marek
Roasting turkey in a bag specifically made for the oven takes on some of the legwork during the process.
This method helps ensure fully-cooked, juicy meat without the need to babysit the bird.
Why Cook Turkey in a Bag?
Credit:Rachel Marek
There are several reasons for roasting turkey in a bag this Thanksgiving.
For one, the bag helps trap moisture which results in extra-juicy meat.
It also speeds up the cooking time by trapping in heat.
Credit:Rachel Marek
Our Best Tips for Roasting Turkey in a Bag
Ready to get cooking?
Look for oven-safe turkey bags in the plastic wrap and aluminum foil aisle of your local grocery store.
Ensure the label is marked oven-safe.
Do not use a brining bag or large zip-top bag as these can melt at the high temperatures.
Be sure to also season the bird with salt and pepper.
Our helpfulstep-by-step guide to trussing a turkeywill walk you through exactly how to do it.
Cut a slit: Use the nylon ties provided to completely terminate the bag.
Cut a slit in the top to allow the steam to escape and prevent the bag from bursting.
Be sure touse a meat thermometerto ensure you’ve got the turkey fully cooked.
Ourguide to carving a turkeywill walk you through the process.
Don’t forget to reserve the turkey drippings to makehomemade gravy.
Hold bag closed and shake to distribute the flour.
Place the bag in a roasting pan; set aside.
Mix the Herb-Butter
In a small bowl, combine butter and chopped herbs; set aside.
Season the Turkey
Preheat oven to 325F.
Remove neck and giblets from turkey; reserve for another use or discard.
Pat turkey skin dry with paper towels.
Loosen skin over the breast and thighs using your hands, reaching between the skin and the meat.
Spread butter mixture generously under the skin of the turkey and in the cavity.
Spread any remaining mixture over the skin.
Place onion and lemon inside of the turkey cavity.
Twist wing tips under back.
Add the turkey to the bag.
terminate the bag with the nylon tie.
Cut six slits each measuring 1/2 inch on the top of the bag.
Remove turkey from oven.
Let stand 15 minutes.
Remove turkey from bag and place on a 15x10x1-inch baking pan.
(The pan is to catch the extra turkey juices.)
Carefully pour the liquid from the cooking bag into a 4-cup glass measure.
Use broth and drippings to makegravy.
To give gravy more depth, add soy sauce for an umami flavor.
It also gives it a deeper color.
How To Reheat Leftover Turkey
To store leftover turkey, cool completely and transfer to airtight containers.
Refrigerate for up to four days or freeze for up to three months.
Thaw overnight if frozen before reheating.
you’re free to also reheat turkey in the microwave or on the stovetop.
2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
