This Juicy Turkey in a Roasting Bag recipe is my secret weapon for holiday meals. It’s incredibly easy to make, and the result is a perfectly cooked, juicy turkey every time. The roasting bag helps to lock in moisture and flavor, so you don’t have to worry about basting or dry meat. Plus, cleanup is a breeze!

I love how this recipe lets the natural flavors of the turkey shine through. With just a simple blend of herbs and spices, you can create a delicious and impressive main course for your holiday table.

Why You’ll Love This Juicy Turkey in a Roasting Bag

Juicy and Tender: The roasting bag creates a moist cooking environment, resulting in a perfectly juicy and tender turkey.
Easy to Make: This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, even for beginner cooks.
No Basting Required: The roasting bag eliminates the need for basting, making the cooking process even easier.
Easy Cleanup: The roasting bag keeps your pan clean, making cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients for Juicy Turkey in a Roasting Bag

Here’s what I use to make this delicious turkey:

All-Purpose Flour: This helps to create a light coating on the inside of the bag, which helps to thicken the juices as the turkey roasts.
Dried Herbs: I use a blend of dried basil, garlic powder, sage, and thyme to season the turkey.
Onion Powder: Adds a subtle onion flavor to the seasoning.
Black Pepper: A touch of black pepper adds a bit of warmth and spice.
Kosher Salt: Salt is essential for seasoning the turkey and bringing out its natural flavors.
Whole Turkey: I usually use a 12- to 15-pound turkey for this recipe.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Variations

Want to add your own twist? Here are a few ideas:

Citrus Burst: Add some orange zest and lemon zest to the herb mixture for a bright, citrusy flavor.
Herby Infusion: Experiment with different herbs, like rosemary, parsley, or tarragon.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the herb mixture for a touch of heat.
Garlic Lover’s Delight: Add a few cloves of garlic to the cavity of the turkey for extra garlicky flavor.

How to Make Juicy Turkey in a Roasting Bag

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

I start by preheating my oven to 350°F and arranging a rack in the lower third of the oven. Then, I coat the inside of a roasting bag with cooking spray and add a couple of tablespoons of flour. I close the bag and shake it to coat the inside with flour. Finally, I place the bag in a roasting pan and open it up, ready for the turkey.

Step 2: Combine the Seasonings

In a small bowl, I combine the dried herbs and spices. I also place the kosher salt in a separate bowl.

Step 3: Season the Turkey

I remove the neck and giblets from the turkey and pat it dry with paper towels. Then, I season the outside and cavity of the turkey generously with salt and the dried herb mixture.

Step 4: Place the Turkey in the Bag

I carefully place the turkey breast-side up in the roasting bag. Then, I close the bag tightly with the included tie and cut a few small vents in the top of the bag.

Step 5: Roast the Turkey

I roast the turkey in the preheated oven for 2 to 2 1/2 hours, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh registers at least 175°F.

Step 6: Rest and Carve

Once the turkey is cooked through, I remove it from the oven and let it rest in the bag for about 15 minutes before carving.

Tips and Tricks

Thawing: Make sure your turkey is completely thawed before roasting.
Don’t Overcrowd: Make sure the turkey has enough space in the roasting bag.
Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey is cooked through.
Rest Time: Allowing the turkey to rest before carving helps to keep it juicy.

How to Serve

I love serving this Juicy Turkey with all my favorite holiday sides:

Mashed Potatoes: A classic pairing!
Stuffing: I love making a savory stuffing with herbs and vegetables.
Cranberry Sauce: A touch of sweetness and tartness to complement the turkey.

Make Ahead and Storage

Make Ahead: You can season the turkey the day before and store it in the refrigerator.
Storage: Leftover turkey can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze leftover turkey for up to 2 months.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of herb blend?
Yes, you can use your favorite herb blend or create your own.

2. Do I need to add any liquid to the roasting bag?
No, you don’t need to add any liquid to the bag. The turkey will release its own juices as it roasts.

3. How can I reheat the turkey?
You can reheat the turkey in the oven or in the microwave.

There you have it! A simple and delicious recipe for a Juicy Turkey in a Roasting Bag. I hope you enjoy it!

Juicy Turkey in a Roasting Bag Recipe