Mom’s Thanksgiving Turkey in a Bag

Mom’s Thanksgiving Turkey in a bag is a delightful way to make your holiday cooking both simple and satisfying. Every year, when November rolls around, many of us begin brainstorming how to perfect our Thanksgiving feast. With so much to manage—family visits, tablescapes, and side dishes—it’s a relief to have a reliable recipe that keeps the turkey moist and flavorful without much fuss. This method not only ensures a juicy turkey but also captures that nostalgic taste that makes Thanksgiving so special. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this turkey recipe will make you feel like a holiday hero. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get ready to create a Thanksgiving dish that will impress everyone at the table!

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Why This Recipe Works

Cooking turkey in a bag takes the stress out of your holiday meal. The oven bag is a game-changer, trapping in steam and helping the turkey cook evenly. Say goodbye to the worries of dry turkey! As the turkey roasts, the steam keeps it moist, locking in all those delicious juices. With this method, you can achieve a perfectly cooked bird, every time. Plus, it’s hard not to love the simplicity of just placing the turkey in the bag, pouring on the marinade, and letting the oven do the work.

Why You’ll Love This Mom’s Thanksgiving Turkey in a Bag

Just imagine a succulent turkey that practically cooks itself! This recipe brings together ease and flavor in a way that’s perfect for bustling kitchens during the holidays. Picture family and friends gathered around the table with smiles, enjoying a turkey that’s tender and bursting with taste. Every bite takes you back to family traditions, creating memories that last well beyond the holiday season. This turkey becomes more than just a dish; it’s a beloved part of your Thanksgiving celebration.

Ingredients

To make Mom’s Thanksgiving Turkey in a bag, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 whole turkey, thawed (8-24 lbs)
• ½ orange or lemon, sliced in quarters
• ½ medium yellow onion, skin removed and sliced in quarters
• ½ cup (118ml) low sodium soy sauce
• ¼ cup (59ml) sherry or white wine
• ½ tablespoon (6g) packed brown sugar
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Reynolds Turkey Sized Oven Bag
• 1 tablespoon (9g) all-purpose flour

These simple ingredients will combine beautifully to create a delicious main course.

Preparing Your Thanksgiving Turkey in a Bag

Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This step sets the stage for optimal cooking. Next, take your thawed turkey and remove the neck and giblets. Rinse the turkey under cold water to clean it, then pat it dry with paper towels. Make sure to discard the giblets and neck, as they aren’t needed for this recipe.

Stuff the Cavity

It’s time to add flavor! Place the sliced citrus and onion directly into the cavity of the turkey. This little touch infuses the meat with a refreshing essence that elevates the dish.

Make the Marinade

Now, let’s prepare the marinade. In a measuring cup, whisk together the low sodium soy sauce, sherry, brown sugar, and black pepper until everything is nicely combined. This marinade will become a flavorful bath for your turkey, enhancing its juiciness.

Prepare the Oven Bag

Following the instructions on the package, sprinkle the flour inside the Reynolds Turkey Sized Oven Bag. This step is crucial as it prevents the bag from bursting during cooking. Place the bag inside a roasting pan that’s at least 2 inches deep to catch any drippings.

Assemble the Turkey

Carefully place the turkey into the bag, making this step as gentle as possible to avoid any spills. Pour the marinade over the entire turkey, ensuring it’s well coated. Remember, the soy sauce provides enough saltiness, so there’s no need to add any extra salt.

Seal and Slit the Bag

Seal the bag tightly as per the package instructions, then cut six ½ inch slits in the top. This allows the steam to escape while cooking, making sure your turkey turns out just right.

Cooking Time

Your turkey’s cooking time depends on its weight. Refer to the bag for specifics:
– 1.5-2 hours for an 8-12 lb turkey
– 2-2.5 hours for a 12-16 lb turkey
– 2.5-3 hours for a 16-20 lb turkey
– 3-3.5 hours for a 20-24 lb turkey

Make sure to cook until the thickest part of the thigh registers 180°F, being mindful to avoid touching the bone.

Let It Rest

Once the cooking is complete, you’ll need to let the turkey rest. Remove it from the oven and allow it to sit in the bag for an additional 15 minutes. This step lets the juices redistribute throughout the meat for that ultimate tenderness.

Carving the Turkey

When you’re ready to carve, carefully cut open the bag while the turkey is still in its roasting pan. This helps catch any juices that flow out. Transfer the turkey to a cutting board and save the juices for making gravy. Let it rest for a bit more until you’re ready to carve and serve.

Serving Suggestions

Your journey doesn’t end with cooking; serving is just as vital. Serve your juicy Mom’s Thanksgiving Turkey alongside classic accompaniments like homemade stuffing, creamy mashed potatoes, and tangy cranberry sauce. The combination makes for a delightful feast everyone will remember.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the turkey is fully thawed and dried before cooking. This step is crucial for even cooking.
• If desired, you can baste the turkey during cooking. The bag allows for a bit of fun with basting, but don’t overdo it!

Variations

For an aromatic twist, consider adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme in the cavity along with the citrus and onion. This small tweak can create a delightful flavor profile that makes your turkey even more special.

Storage Tips

After your feast, store any leftover turkey in the refrigerator. It will stay good for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze your turkey for up to 3 months, allowing you to enjoy this delicious meal again in the future.

FAQs

1. Can I use a frozen turkey?

2. No, it’s essential to start with a completely thawed turkey for even cooking.

3. What if I don’t have an oven bag?

4. You can roast your turkey in a covered roasting pan, but expect some variation in cooking times.

5. Can I use different types of wine?

6. Absolutely! Swap it for your favorite white wine for a unique flavor twist.

7. What are some good side dishes?

8. Classic sides like mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, and stuffing pair beautifully.

9. How do I ensure my turkey is not dry?

10. Following the cooking times and temperatures will help retain moisture, thanks to the oven bag’s design.

Enjoy this effortless yet delicious Mom’s Thanksgiving Turkey in a Bag and make it the star of your family gatherings for years to come. The blend of flavors—juicy turkey, aromatic citrus, and onion—creates a Thanksgiving experience that’s nothing short of a celebration. Plus, the easy clean-up leaves you with more time to enjoy the festivities with your loved ones!

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