7-UP Turkey

For added flavor, you can stuff the turkey cavity with herbs, citrus, and onions before cooking.

Truss the turkey legs with kitchen twine before roasting.

If the skin gets too brown during cooking, tent it with foil to prevent burning.

Save any leftover 7-Up glaze from the pan to drizzle over the carved turkey for extra flavor.

Make sure to let the turkey rest before carving to allow the juices to redistribute for a juicier bite.

For a crispy skin, you can broil the turkey for a few minutes at the end of cooking.

Can I use sprite or ginger ale?

Yes, you can use other light flavored sodas

Can I use sugar free 7-up?

Sugar-free sodas can be used but they won't work quite as well. They don't contain the same kind of sweetener so the turkey won't get the nice glaze. If you are worried about it for health reasons, keep in mind you aren't consuming very much of the soda unless you are eating nothing but turkey skin and gravy for dinner. The amount actually consumed will be quite low but always check with a medical professional regarding your own personal dietary needs.

Should I cover the turkey with foil the entire cooking time?

Covering the turkey with foil at the beginning helps to keep it moist, but removing the foil towards the end allows the skin to brown and crisp up.

Can I add herbs or seasonings to the turkey?

Feel free to season the turkey with herbs and spices before cooking to add more flavor to the dish. You can also put herbs in the cavity and under the skin for more flavor.

Large Roasting Pan: For cooking the turkey in the oven. Make sure it's large enough to comfortably fit your 10-pound bird and hold in the juices.

Rack or Aluminum Foil: To elevate the turkey while it roasts, allowing air to circulate around the bird and preventing it from sitting in its own juices.

Foil: To tent the turkey while cooking and to help keep it moist. Also, good for covering leftovers to prevent drying out.

Baster: Handy for basting the turkey every 45 minutes with the pan juices and 7-up to make sure it stays moist and flavorful. If you don't have a baster you can use a spoon or basting brush.

Meat Thermometer: Necessary for checking the internal temperature of the turkey breast to make sure it reaches 160 degrees F for safe consumption. If your turkey comes with a pop-up timer, discard it as they are terribly inaccurate.

Carving Knife: Used to carve the 7-up glazed turkey once it's cooked and rested. Make sure it's sharp for smooth slices.

Cutting Board: To rest the cooked turkey while you prepare to carve it. Look for a large, sturdy cutting board to accommodate the size of the bird. Ideally you want a cutting board that is designed for carving meats and allows for space for juices to accumulate.

Gravy Boat (optional): If you're making gravy from the pan drippings and 7-up, a gravy boat is great for serving alongside the turkey. Plus, it makes you look fancy.

Cranberry Sauce: the tartness of cranberry sauce provides a delicious contrast to the turkey.

Cornbread Dressing: the savory, slightly crumbly texture of cornbread dressing will be the ideal complement to the juicy and moist 7-Up glazed turkey.

Green Bean Casserole: the creamy, crunchy goodness of green bean casserole will enhance the light and citrusy flavors of the 7-Up glaze.

Wine Pairings

Chardonnay: The buttery notes in a Chardonnay will complement the succulent turkey.

Pinot Noir: The light and fruity flavors of a Pinot Noir make an excellent pairing with roast turkey.

Riesling: The slight sweetness and acidity of a Riesling will cut through the richness of the turkey, creating a perfect balance of flavors.

Other Alcohol Pairings

Whiskey Ginger: The spiciness of the whiskey combined with the sweetness of the ginger ale will complement the flavors of the 7-Up glazed turkey.

Hard Cider: The crisp and fruity notes of a hard cider will enhance the sweetness of the glaze, creating a refreshing pairing.

Spiced Rum and Coke: The warm spices in the rum will pair beautifully with the sweetness of the 7-Up glaze, creating a comforting and enjoyable combination.

Non-Alcoholic Pairings

Sparkling Water with a Splash of Orange Juice: The bubbles in the sparkling water will cleanse the palate between bites of turkey, while the splash of orange juice will add a touch of citrus.

Lemonade: The tartness of lemonade will cut through the richness of the turkey, providing a refreshing and palate-cleansing experience.

7-UP: Obvious choice as it's a main ingredient in the turkey recipe. Serve with a lemon or lime wedge, or rim the glass with Tajin if you want a spicy contrast.