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Irresistible Root Beer Float Turkey Recipe for Perfect Holidays

root beer float turkey - featured image

A succulent, flavorful turkey infused with the nostalgic sweetness of root beer, perfect for holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1214 pound whole turkey, thawed if frozen
  • 2 cups root beer
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup butter, melted
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 2 tbsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 cup orange juice
  • Fresh thyme and rosemary for stuffing the cavity (optional)

Instructions

  1. Remove the giblets and pat the turkey dry with paper towels. Season the cavity generously with salt and pepper, then stuff with fresh herbs if using.
  2. In a bowl, mix 1 cup root beer, 1/4 cup orange juice, and 1 tbsp salt. Pour the mixture over the turkey and let it marinate in the fridge for 4-6 hours (or overnight).
  3. Combine the remaining root beer, brown sugar, melted butter, garlic, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt in a saucepan. Simmer on low heat for 10 minutes until thickened.
  4. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Place the turkey on the roasting rack in the pan.
  5. Brush the turkey with the root beer glaze, tent with foil, and roast for about 3 hours, basting every 30 minutes.
  6. Remove the foil during the last 30 minutes to brown the skin. The turkey is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  7. Let the turkey rest for 20 minutes before carving to retain its juices. Serve with any remaining glaze drizzled over the slices.

Notes

[‘Marinate the turkey for at least 4 hours or overnight for best flavor.’, ‘Use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey is cooked to the correct internal temperature.’, ‘Glaze generously for a flavorful and caramelized skin.’, ‘Tent the turkey with foil to prevent over-browning.’, ‘Allow the turkey to rest before carving to retain juices.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: Root Beer Turkey, Holiday Turkey, Thanksgiving Recipe, Christmas Dinner, Unique Turkey Recipe