turkey in an oven bag recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best turkey in an oven bag recipe

I have been making turkey in an oven bag for years, and it is my go-to method for a perfect bird every time. The bag locks in moisture and flavor, so the meat comes out juicy and tender without any basting. My kids love the soft, flavorful meat, and I love that it frees up oven space and cuts down on cleanup. It is a simple, reliable way to cook a turkey that works for a big holiday dinner or a regular Sunday meal. The bag keeps the turkey moist, so you do not have to worry about dry meat, and it cuts down on cooking time compared to traditional roasting. This recipe is a lifesaver for busy families who want a delicious, home-cooked meal without the stress. It is also a healthier option because you use less oil and the fat drips away from the bird.

Juicy Oven Bag Turkey

4.9 from 1945 votes

This oven bag turkey recipe delivers a perfectly moist and flavorful bird every time. The bag locks in juices and reduces cooking time, making it ideal for holidays or weeknight dinners.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time2 hours 30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time2 hours 50 mins
Servings: 12Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Turkey

1 (12-14 lb) whole turkey, thawed
1 oven bag (such as Reynolds Oven Bag)
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1/2 cup water
1/2 cup chicken broth

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
2Remove giblets and neck from turkey. Rinse turkey inside and out and pat dry with paper towels.
3In a small bowl, mix together salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and rosemary.
4Rub the turkey all over with vegetable oil, then sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over the turkey, including inside the cavity.
5Place the oven bag inside a roasting pan. Add the flour to the bag and shake to coat the inside. This helps prevent the bag from bursting.
6Place the turkey inside the bag. Pour water and chicken broth around the turkey. Tie the bag closed with the provided tie, then cut six 1/2-inch slits in the top of the bag.
7Roast for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh registers 165 degrees F. Let the turkey rest in the bag for 15 minutes before opening.
8Carefully cut open the bag, being mindful of steam. Transfer the turkey to a cutting board, let rest 10 minutes more, then carve and serve.

🔧Equipment

Roasting pan
Oven bag
Kitchen twine (optional)
Meat thermometer

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 120mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 2g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 0g🥩Protein: 30g

📝Notes

Tips: For extra flavor, you can add chopped onions, carrots, and celery to the bag. Make sure your roasting pan is large enough to hold the bag without touching the sides of the oven.

Watch Video Of How Juicy Oven Bag Turkey Works

This oven bag turkey recipe is always a good idea because it delivers a juicy, flavorful bird with minimal effort and cleanup. It works perfectly for family gatherings or holiday dinners, letting you spend more time with your guests and less time in the kitchen. I highly recommend it for any occasion.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Juicy Oven Bag Turkey

1. Do I need to baste the turkey when using an oven bag?

No, you do not need to baste the turkey when using an oven bag. The bag traps steam and moisture, so the turkey stays naturally juicy without any basting. This is one of the biggest time savers of this method.

2. Can I use an oven bag for a stuffed turkey?

Yes, you can use an oven bag for a stuffed turkey, but you must ensure the stuffing reaches a safe internal temperature of 165 degrees F. The cooking time will be longer, so use a meat thermometer to check both the turkey and the stuffing.

3. How do I keep the oven bag from bursting?

To prevent the bag from bursting, always add a tablespoon of flour to the bag and shake it to coat the inside. Also, make sure to cut several slits in the top of the bag to allow steam to escape, and do not overfill the bag.

4. Can I use a different size turkey?

Yes, you can adjust the recipe for different turkey sizes. For a 10-12 pound turkey, cook for about 2 hours. For a 14-16 pound turkey, cook for about 2.5 to 3 hours. Always check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165 degrees F.

5. Is the skin crispy when using an oven bag?

The skin will be tender and moist, but not as crispy as a traditional roasted turkey. If you want crispy skin, you can open the bag for the last 15-20 minutes of cooking and increase the oven temperature to 400 degrees F to crisp it up.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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