I know what you’re thinking: Cooking a turkey in a paper bag sounds crazy… I know, right? Well I have tried this myself and I can personally tell you that your turkey will turn out with crispy golden skin on the outside and juicy and succulent on the inside. The paper bag will not start on fire and the turkey will not have any paper like taste. You will not have to baste it our anything. Basically as Ron “Ronco” Popeil says “just set it and forget it”. This is super easy with almost guaranteed success every time. But, we are going to mix it up a little by adding a sweet and salty savory rub. This rub will seal the juices and flavors in and deliver a unique and delicious bird. Your guests will do back flips or just smile with delight.
Remove neck and giblets from cavity.
Rinse the turkey and pat dry.
In a small bowl combine all the spices and seasoning except for the bay leaves.
Brush the skin and inside cavity with the oil or melted butter.
Rub half the seasoning mixture in the cavity of the turkey; add the bay leaves. Stuff, if desired.
Rub remaining mixture over the turkey skin.
Tie the drumsticks together and place turkey in the paper bag. Seal the bag with staples or paper clips.
You can use two bags if one is not big enough.
Place the bagged turkey in a roasting pan breast up.
Bake at 325°F for about 5 hours. Reduce the cooking time to 4-4 1/2 hours for an unstuffed or smaller turkey.
Once done, remove from oven.
Let stand for 15 minutes. Remove the turkey from the paper bag.
Slice and serve!
Serving Size 1/26 recipe
Servings 26
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.