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4. Place the turkey in the bag
Insert the seasoned turkey breast-side up into the floured bag. You can add a few more aromatics around the bird if desired. Seal the bag with the provided tie and place it in a roasting pan.
5. Cut slits in the top
Use scissors to cut 4–6 small slits in the top of the bag to allow steam to escape safely.
6. Roast the turkey
Place the roasting pan on the lower rack of your oven. Follow the chart below for approximate cook times:
| Turkey Weight | Time in Roasting Bag |
|---|---|
| 10–12 lbs | 2 to 2.5 hours |
| 12–16 lbs | 2.5 to 3 hours |
| 16–20 lbs | 3 to 3.5 hours |
Always use a meat thermometer to ensure doneness: the thickest part of the thigh should reach 165°F (74°C).
7. Let it rest
Carefully open the bag (watch for hot steam!), remove the turkey, and let it rest uncovered for 20–30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute.
Pro Tips for Best Results
- Don’t skip the flour — it prevents the bag from bursting.
- Elevate the turkey on a rack or layer of vegetables for better browning.
- Check early — roasting bags reduce cooking time, so check temperature 30 minutes before expected finish.
- Make gravy from the flavorful bag juices!
Final Thoughts
Roasting your turkey in a bag is a game-changing method that guarantees a juicy, tender bird every time — without all the hassle. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a special family dinner, this approach takes the stress out of roasting and delivers foolproof, flavorful results.
If you’ve never tried it before, this might just become your new go-to turkey tradition.
Would you like a printable version of the recipe or a gravy guide using the bag juices? I’d be happy to provide that too! 🦃🥔✨
