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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Course Thanksgiving
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • 1 12-20 lb whole turkey, thawed
  • 2-3 tbsps flour
  • 1 stick (½ cup) melted butter
  • 1-2 cups chicken broth or water
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, sage) — optional
  • Aromatics like onion, garlic, lemon, or celery — optional
  • 1 large roasting pan
  • 1 turkey-sized oven bag

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the giblets and neck from the turkey cavity, then pat the bird dry with paper towels.
  • Brush the turkey all over with melted butter, and season generously with salt, pepper, and herbs. For extra flavor, tuck a few onion wedges, lemon halves, or herbs inside the cavity.
  • Shake 1 tablespoon of flour inside the turkey bag — this prevents it from bursting and helps blend the juices. Place the bag in your roasting pan and lay a few chopped veggies (like carrots and celery) under the turkey if you’d like to elevate it.
  • Place your seasoned turkey inside the bag breast-side up. Add 1–2 cups of broth or water to the bag for steam. Close the bag with the provided tie and cut a few small slits in the top to let steam escape.
  • Cook according to your turkey’s weight:
    12–16 lbs: about 2½ to 3 hours
    16–20 lbs: about 3 to 3½ hours
  • The turkey is ready when a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh reads 165°F (74°C).
  • Carefully cut open the bag (watch out for steam!) and transfer the turkey to a cutting board. Let it rest for 20–30 minutes before carving — this allows the juices to redistribute for perfect slices.
Keyword cooking a turkey