Effortless and delicious: reynolds bag turkey recipe for a stress-free thanksgiving

Thanksgiving, a time for family, friends, and delicious food, is incomplete without a perfectly roasted turkey. If you’re looking for a hassle-free, flavorful way to prepare your holiday centerpiece, look no further than the Reynolds Bag Turkey Recipe. This foolproof method yields a tender, juicy turkey that will impress even the most discerning palates.

Benefits of Using a Reynolds Bag

• Even Cooking: The Reynolds Bag creates a sealed environment, ensuring even heat distribution and preventing hot spots that can lead to dry or overcooked meat.
• Retains Moisture: The bag traps steam, creating a moist and flavorful turkey.
• Less Cleanup: No more scrubbing roasting pans or baking sheets; simply discard the Reynolds Bag after cooking.
• Versatile: You can season your turkey however you like, allowing for endless flavor possibilities.

Ingredients

• 1 (12-15 pound) whole turkey
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 1 Reynolds Oven Bag, large size

Instructions

1. Prepare the Turkey: Remove the turkey from the refrigerator 1 hour before roasting to bring it to room temperature. Rinse it inside and out with cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.
2. Season the Turkey: In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, thyme, rosemary, and sage. Rub the mixture all over the turkey, inside and out.
3. Melt the Butter: Place the melted butter in a small bowl.
4. Place the Turkey in the Bag: Open the Reynolds Oven Bag and place it in a large roasting pan. Place the turkey in the bag, breast side up.
5. Pour the Butter Over the Turkey: Pour the melted butter over the turkey, ensuring it coats all surfaces.
6. Seal the Bag: Close the Reynolds Oven Bag tightly with the attached nylon tie.
7. Roast the Turkey: Roast the turkey according to the following guidelines:

• 12-14 pound turkey: 350°F for 3 1/2-4 hours
• 14-16 pound turkey: 350°F for 4-4 1/2 hours
• 16-18 pound turkey: 350°F for 4 1/2-5 hours

8. Check the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey. The turkey is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh.
9. Let the Turkey Rest: Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful turkey.

Tips for a Perfect Turkey

• Choose a fresh or frozen turkey that has been properly thawed.
• Don’t overstuff the turkey, as this can prevent even cooking.
• If the turkey starts to brown too quickly, cover it with foil.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey is cooked to the correct internal temperature.
• Let the turkey rest before carving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Flavor Variations

The Reynolds Bag Turkey Recipe is a versatile canvas for your culinary creativity. Here are a few ideas to customize your turkey:

• Herb Butter: Add chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley, chives, or basil, to the melted butter.
• Citrus Glaze: Brush the turkey with orange or lemon juice before roasting.
• Spiced Rub: Create a flavorful rub using spices like cumin, coriander, or paprika.
• Smoke Flavor: Roast the turkey in a smoker for a hint of smokiness.

The Perfect Pairing

No Thanksgiving meal is complete without delicious side dishes. Here are a few classic pairings to complement your Reynolds Bag Turkey:

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and comforting, mashed potatoes are a Thanksgiving staple.
• Stuffing: Savory and aromatic, stuffing adds a festive touch to your meal.
• Green Bean Casserole: With its crispy topping and creamy interior, green bean casserole is a crowd-pleaser.
• Cranberry Sauce: Tart and tangy, cranberry sauce provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the turkey.

Wrapping Up: A Thanksgiving to Remember

With the Reynolds Bag Turkey Recipe, you can create a Thanksgiving centerpiece that will be the talk of the table. Its ease of preparation, flavorful results, and versatility make it the perfect choice for both novice and experienced cooks alike. So gather your loved ones, set the table, and enjoy a truly memorable Thanksgiving feast.

What People Want to Know

1. Can I use a different size turkey with this recipe?
Yes, you can adjust the roasting time accordingly. For a smaller turkey (10-12 pounds), roast for 3-3 1/2 hours. For a larger turkey (18-20 pounds), roast for 5-5 1/2 hours.
2. Can I cook the turkey frozen in the Reynolds Bag?
No, it is not recommended to cook a frozen turkey in a Reynolds Oven Bag. This can result in uneven cooking and potential food safety hazards.
3. What if I don’t have a Reynolds Oven Bag?
If you don’t have a Reynolds Oven Bag, you can use a large roasting bag or a double layer of heavy-duty aluminum foil. However, the results may not be as consistent.
4. Can I add vegetables to the Reynolds Bag with the turkey?
Yes, you can add vegetables such as carrots, celery, and onions to the Reynolds Bag with the turkey. This will create a flavorful and moist roasting environment.
5. How do I prevent the Reynolds Bag from bursting?
To prevent the Reynolds Bag from bursting, ensure that the bag is not overfilled and that there is at least 2 inches of space around the turkey. Also, make sure to puncture the bag a few times with a fork to allow steam to escape.