Turkey Simple
A flavorful and easy turkey roast cooked in a bag with vegetables, perfect for family dinners and holiday gatherings, offering moist meat and savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Shake flour in Reynolds turkey oven bag 2 inches deep.
- Add sliced celery and onion to the bag.
- Remove neck and giblets from turkey.
- Rinse the turkey thoroughly.
- Stuff the turkey with your favorite stuffing recipe.
- Brush the turkey with oil.
- Place the turkey in the bag with vegetables.
- Close the bag securely.
- Tie the open end of the bag.
- Cut 6-inch slits in the top of the bag.
- Insert a thermometer into the thick part of the thigh.
- Cook until the thermometer reaches 180°F, about 3 to 4 hours.
- Add an extra hour if the turkey is stuffed.
- Let the turkey stand in the bag for 15 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a juicier turkey, consider brining it overnight before cooking. You can substitute the oil with melted butter for a richer flavor. If you don’t have flour for the bag, cornstarch works well too. Ensure the turkey is properly thawed to avoid uneven cooking. For added flavor, season the turkey with herbs like thyme or rosemary.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the turkey with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, or cranberry sauce for a festive meal. It pairs beautifully with Better Than Nothing Soup for a comforting touch. Don't forget to save some turkey for sandwiches or salads in the following days, making it versatile for quick meals.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover turkey should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze the turkey in portions for up to six months. When reheating, cover the turkey with foil to prevent it from drying out, and heat it in the oven at 325°F until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Turkey Simple contains roughly 528 calories, with 15g protein, 105g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (35% of the Daily Value) and protein (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know when the turkey is fully cooked?
The best way to check if the turkey is done is by using a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the thigh without touching the bone; it should read 180°F. If the turkey is stuffed, make sure the stuffing also reaches 165°F.
Can I cook a frozen turkey using this method?
It is not recommended to cook a frozen turkey in an oven bag. Ensure the turkey is fully thawed before cooking for even heat distribution and to prevent food safety issues. Plan ahead and allow sufficient time for thawing in the refrigerator.
What is the best way to carve the turkey after cooking?
To carve the turkey, let it rest for at least 15 minutes after cooking. Start by removing the legs and thighs, then slice the breast meat against the grain. Use a sharp knife for clean cuts. This method ensures tender slices and easier serving.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).