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Why Cooking Turkey in a Bag Is the Holiday Hack You Need

Why Cooking Turkey in a Bag Is the Holiday Hack You Need

Bag-roasting your turkey transforms holiday chaos into calm. This simple, flavorful method locks in moisture, cuts cleanup, and gives you more time to enjoy the holiday magic with your loved ones.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Make-Ahead Time 1 day
Total Time 3 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 10 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Bag-Roast Turkey
  • 1 whole turkey 12–14 lbs, fully thawed
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried sage or thyme or other herbs of choice
  • 1 onion quartered, optional
  • 3 cloves garlic optional
  • 0.5 cup chicken broth or water for moisture in pan

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Roasting Pan
  • Turkey Roasting Bag
  • Meat Thermometer

Method
 

  1. Thaw your turkey completely and pat it dry with paper towels to promote crisp skin.
  2. Rub the turkey with olive oil or butter. Season generously with salt, pepper, and herbs inside and out.
  3. Place turkey in a roasting bag with aromatics like onion and garlic. Seal the bag and place it in a roasting pan with a little broth or water.
  4. If making ahead, refrigerate the bagged turkey until ready to roast. Otherwise, preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
  5. Roast the turkey for 2.5 to 3 hours (for 12–14 lbs), or follow the bag manufacturer’s directions. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
  6. Optionally, open the bag for the last 15 minutes to crisp the skin. Let the turkey rest 20–30 minutes before carving.

Notes

Want even more flavor? Add lemon wedges, rosemary sprigs, or apple slices into the bag. If you pre-cook the turkey, reheat covered at 300°F with a bit of broth to keep moist.