Here’s a rough cheat sheet for you, bag lover. For an 8 to 12-pound turkey, cook it for about 1.5 to 2.5 hours. A 12 to 16-pound bird needs 2.5 to 3.5 hours. And for a massive 16 to 20-pounder? You’re looking at 3.5 to 4.5 hours. But always, always check with a meat thermometer—that’s your real best friend.
Remember, the bag doesn’t lie. The turkey is done when the thigh hits 165°F in the thickest part. Stick the thermometer through the bag, but be careful—hot steam can bite you!
But what if I forget to cut slits in the bag?
Oh, you mean the bursting balloon scenario? Yeah, don’t skip that step. The package instructions will tell you to cut a few tiny slits in the top. This lets steam escape and prevents a kitchen explosion. Nobody wants a turkey that pops like a piñata.
Reynolds Oven Bags Turkey Cooking Time Chart - TimeChart.net
It’s also smart to flour the inside of the bag before you put the turkey in. Why? Flour keeps the skin from sticking and helps it brown instead of turning into a soggy mess. A little science goes a long way.
