Dr. Pepper Barbecue Sloppy Joes deliver a surprising mix of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors that completely reinvent the classic sandwich. Whether you’re planning a quick weeknight dinner or looking to impress guests at your next backyard cookout, this easy recipe combines bold barbecue sauce, ground beef, and the unique fizz of Dr. Pepper for a sloppy joe you’ll crave again and again. It’s not just a meal—it’s a bold flavor experience.
Check out more BBQ twists in our Ultimate BBQ Recipe Guide.
The Core Ingredients That Define Dr. Pepper Barbecue Sloppy Joes
The Role of Ground Meat in Sloppy Joes
Choosing the right meat is step one.
Traditional sloppy joes rely on ground beef for its rich texture and savory flavor. However, if you’re looking for leaner options, you can swap in ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat. The fat content affects the juiciness and depth of flavor, so a mix of 80/20 ground beef is ideal for a hearty, moist result.
Variations of Protein Options
Ground turkey for a lighter taste
Ground chicken for a leaner blend
Plant-based meat for a vegetarian twist
Ground pork for a juicier, sweeter finish
Why Dr. Pepper Works as a Sauce Base
Dr. Pepper isn’t just a drink—it’s a flavor enhancer. Its blend of 23 unique flavors adds unexpected depth, sweetness, and a hint of spice. The soda caramelizes beautifully when reduced with other sauce elements, offering a sticky, tangy glaze that elevates your average barbecue sauce into something extraordinary.
Flavor Chemistry Breakdown
Caramel and vanilla notes enhance sweetness
Hints of cherry and licorice bring complexity
Carbonation helps tenderize meat while cooking
Building the Sauce: From Scratch vs. Store-Bought
Sure, you can grab a pre-made Dr. Pepper BBQ sauce, but making it at home gives you control over the heat, sweetness, and texture. It starts with simmering Dr. Pepper with ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, and spices. This not only tastes fresher, but also lets you adjust based on your preference—less sugar, more heat, or extra smokiness.
Homemade Sauce Essentials
Dr. Pepper (1 cup)
Ketchup (1/2 cup)
Apple cider vinegar (2 tbsp)
Brown sugar (2 tbsp)
Worcestershire sauce (1 tbsp)
Garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (1 tsp each)
Optional: chili flakes or hot sauce for heat
Bun Matters: Choose the Right Bread
While it’s easy to overlook, the bun can make or break your sloppy joe. Soft, absorbent buns like brioche or potato rolls soak up the sauce without falling apart. Toasting them lightly helps resist sogginess and adds an extra layer of texture.
Best Bun Choices
Brioche buns for rich, buttery taste
Potato rolls for softness and structure
Kaiser rolls for a crusty exterior
Gluten-free buns for dietary needs
Supporting Ingredients: Aromatics & Binders
Don’t skip the diced onions and minced garlic—they build the aromatic base. Tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce deepen the flavor, while mustard or hot sauce can add a tangy kick. For a thicker consistency, a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch slurry helps hold everything together.
Must-Have Add-Ins
Yellow onion (1 medium, diced)
Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
Tomato paste (1 tbsp)
Worcestershire sauce (1 tbsp)
Dijon mustard (1 tsp) or hot sauce
Optional Add-Ons for Depth and Crunch
Want to customize your sloppy joes? Toss in chopped pickles for zing, shredded cheese for richness, or coleslaw for crunch. Jalapeños and smoked chipotle peppers are great additions for a spicy twist.
Add-On Options:
Pickle slices
Shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese
Thin-sliced jalapeños
Red onion or scallions
Coleslaw topping
Balancing Sweetness, Acidity, and Heat
The key to a good sloppy joe is balance. Too much sweetness can overwhelm, and too much acidity can make the dish harsh. Taste and tweak as you go. If it’s too sweet, add vinegar or mustard. Too tangy? Stir in extra brown sugar or a drizzle of honey. Need heat? Dash in hot sauce or cayenne.
Balance Fix Table:
| Flavor Imbalance | Fix With |
|---|---|
| Too Sweet | Apple cider vinegar, mustard |
| Too Tangy | Brown sugar, honey |
| Too Spicy | More ketchup, a splash of cream |
| Too Bland | Smoked paprika, salt, Worcestershire |
Cooking Techniques That Bring It All Together
Simmering is crucial. After browning the meat and sautéing aromatics, allow your sauce to simmer for at least 15–20 minutes. This concentrates the flavors and thickens the sauce so it clings to the meat. Don’t rush this step—it’s where the magic happens.
Tips for Cooking Success
Deglaze the pan with a splash of Dr. Pepper
Let it reduce slowly over medium-low heat
Stir frequently to prevent burning
Let sit for 5 minutes before serving for flavor melding
Dr. Pepper Barbecue Sloppy Joes Ingredients
The Unexpected Marriage of Soda and Barbecue
Dr. Pepper has been around since the 1880s, but its journey into the world of barbecue is a modern culinary twist.
Chefs and home cooks began experimenting with soda-based marinades and sauces to tenderize meats and add complexity. Dr. Pepper’s unique blend of spices and sweetness made it an instant hit for creating a bold, sticky barbecue sauce.
Historical Roots in Southern BBQ
Popularized in Texas where both BBQ and Dr. Pepper are staples
Seen as a way to fuse sweet and smoky profiles without added preservatives
Used in slow-cooked meats like brisket, pulled pork, and ribs
Timeline of Trend Adoption
1980s–1990s: Home cooks start using soda in crockpot recipes
Early 2000s: Food blogs introduce Dr. Pepper BBQ chicken and ribs
Present day: Signature sauce in restaurants, cookbooks, and food trucks
What Makes Dr. Pepper the Right Soda for BBQ Sauce?
While other sodas like cola or root beer are also used, Dr. Pepper’s flavor depth stands out. It doesn’t just add sugar; it adds character. The complex layering of cherry, licorice, and spice notes enriches the sauce without overpowering the savory meat.
Flavor Comparison Table
| Soda | BBQ Flavor Outcome |
|---|---|
| Coca-Cola | Sweet, but can be flat in complexity |
| Root Beer | Rich but very sweet, vanilla-heavy |
| Dr. Pepper | Sweet, spiced, slightly fruity, bold |
| Sprite | Too citrusy, not ideal for red meats |
Homemade vs. Bottled Dr. Pepper BBQ Sauce
You might find Dr. Pepper BBQ sauce on grocery store shelves, but homemade versions dominate for freshness and customization. Store-bought varieties often include high-fructose corn syrup and stabilizers. Making your own allows full control over the sweetness, spice level, and texture.
Benefits of Homemade:
No preservatives
Fully adjustable flavors
Budget-friendly for batch cooking
Opportunity to add fresh herbs, spices, or heat
How It Found Its Way into Sloppy Joes
Sloppy Joes are inherently messy, bold, and easy to prepare—making them the perfect canvas for flavor experimentation. Dr. Pepper BBQ sauce offers a sweet-savory balance that pairs beautifully with the beefy richness of the dish. The sugar in the soda also creates a caramelized texture that sticks to the bun just right.
Culinary Logic Behind the Pairing
Sloppy Joes benefit from bold sauces
BBQ sauce adds complexity missing from traditional ketchup-based recipes
Dr. Pepper cuts through the fat and brightens the bite
Signature Dishes That Popularized Dr. Pepper BBQ
Before Sloppy Joes stole the spotlight, Dr. Pepper BBQ sauce was widely used in other dishes. Its success in ribs, pulled pork, and even burgers helped it rise to fame.
Notable Recipes Featuring Dr. Pepper BBQ:
Dr. Pepper Ribs: Slow-braised then grilled with a glaze
Pulled Pork Sandwiches: Smoked pork shoulder mixed with the sauce
Dr. Pepper Jalapeño Burgers: A spicy twist on grilled beef patties
Discover great ideas like these in our slow-cooker BBQ recipe collection for more uses of soda-infused sauces.
Cultural Influence in the Southern U.S.
Dr. Pepper originated in Waco, Texas, so it’s no surprise that many Texan recipes include the soda as a secret ingredient. BBQ culture in the South is all about layering flavors—sweet, spicy, smoky, and tangy—which aligns perfectly with what Dr. Pepper brings to the table.
Southern Touches You Can Add:
Add smoked paprika and cayenne for heat
Use mesquite or hickory smoke for depth
Serve with classic Southern sides like coleslaw or mac and cheese
Creative Fusion: Tex-Mex Meets BBQ
With the rise of Tex-Mex cuisine, combining Dr. Pepper sauce with ingredients like chipotle, jalapeños, and cumin created bold fusions. These spicy-sweet combinations are what gave rise to dishes like Dr. Pepper Jalapeño BBQ Sauce and even Dr. Pepper taco meat.
Popular Fusion Variants:
Dr. Pepper BBQ Nachos
Spicy Dr. Pepper BBQ Chicken Tacos
BBQ Brisket Quesadillas with Jalapeño Dr. Pepper Drizzle
Dr. Pepper Barbecue Sloppy Joes (Sweet, Smoky & Tangy Twist)
- Total Time: 40 min
Description
Dr. Pepper Barbecue Sloppy Joes combine the best parts of classic comfort food with a sweet-and-smoky BBQ upgrade. This recipe brings together rich ground beef, a sticky homemade Dr. Pepper BBQ sauce, and your favorite toasted buns for a weeknight dinner or game-day sandwich that’s guaranteed to impress. It’s easy, bold, and unforgettable.
Ingredients
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1 lb ground beef (80/20 preferred)
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1 tbsp olive oil or butter
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1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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Salt & black pepper to taste
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Optional: 1/4 tsp smoked paprika for added depth
For the Homemade Dr. Pepper BBQ Sauce:
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1 cup Dr. Pepper
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1/2 cup ketchup
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2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
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2 tbsp brown sugar
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1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
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1 tbsp tomato paste
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp onion powder
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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Pinch of salt & pepper
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Optional: 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for heat
For Assembly:
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4 brioche buns or potato rolls
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1 tbsp butter (for toasting buns)
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Toppings: shredded cheese, jalapeños, pickles, or coleslaw (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Make the BBQ Sauce
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In a medium saucepan, combine Dr. Pepper, ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, Worcestershire, and tomato paste.
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Stir in all spices: garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
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Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens.
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Taste and adjust: add vinegar if too sweet, brown sugar if too tangy, or cayenne if you like heat.
Step 2: Prepare the Meat
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Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add onions and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
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Add ground beef. Brown thoroughly, breaking it up with a spatula, about 6–8 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
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Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
Step 3: Combine Sauce and Meat
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Pour your homemade Dr. Pepper BBQ sauce over the browned meat.
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Stir to coat evenly and simmer on low for 10–15 minutes until everything thickens and flavors meld.
Step 4: Toast the Buns
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Butter each bun half and toast face-down in a skillet until golden and crisp.
Step 5: Assemble Your Sloppy Joes
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Spoon a generous portion of the meat mixture onto the bottom half of each bun.
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Top with optional cheese, slaw, or pickles.
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Notes
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Let the sauce simmer long enough—flavor builds over time.
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Don’t overload the bun—these are messy but manageable.
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Toasting the bun prevents it from getting soggy and adds great crunch.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 30 min
How to Make Dr. Pepper BBQ Sauce from Scratch for Sloppy Joes
Essential Pantry Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating the perfect homemade Dr. Pepper BBQ sauce starts with a balance of sweet, tangy, and smoky ingredients.
These are easily found in most kitchens or local grocery stores, and each one plays a critical role in flavor development.
Core Ingredient List:
Dr. Pepper (1 cup): The base—adds sweetness and complexity
Ketchup (1/2 cup): Thickens the sauce and brings a classic BBQ foundation
Apple cider vinegar (2 tbsp): For acidity and brightness
Brown sugar (2 tbsp): Adds deep sweetness and helps with caramelization
Worcestershire sauce (1 tbsp): Umami and savory depth
Tomato paste (1 tbsp): Boosts richness and body
Garlic powder (1 tsp): For punchy aromatic notes
Onion powder (1 tsp): Enhances the savory layer
Smoked paprika (1 tsp): Adds warmth and a touch of smokiness
Salt and black pepper (to taste): Balances the flavors
Optional: Cayenne, chili powder, or hot sauce for added heat
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Crafting the sauce is a simple one-pot process. The key is patience—allowing the sauce to reduce until it thickens and all the flavors meld together.
Sauce Preparation Guide:
Start with the Base
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine Dr. Pepper, ketchup, and brown sugar. Stir well until sugar dissolves.
Add Depth and Acidity
Mix in apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato paste. These ingredients cut through the sweetness.
Season with Spices
Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Simmer to Reduce
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for 15–25 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens.
Taste and Adjust
If too sweet, add more vinegar. Too tangy? A little honey or more Dr. Pepper helps. Spice too mild? Add cayenne or hot sauce.
Cool and Store
Once thickened, remove from heat and let it cool. You can use immediately or store in the fridge for up to 7 days in an airtight container.
Tips for Getting the Sauce Just Right
Even small adjustments can make a big difference. Knowing what to tweak when helps you customize your sauce like a pro.
Common Adjustments Table:
| Flavor Issue | What to Add |
|---|---|
| Too Runny | Simmer longer or add 1 tsp cornstarch slurry |
| Too Thick | Add 1-2 tbsp water or Dr. Pepper |
| Too Sweet | Apple cider vinegar or mustard |
| Too Tangy | Extra brown sugar or ketchup |
| Too Bland | Salt, Worcestershire, or smoked paprika |
Pro Technique: Caramelizing the Sauce
For an extra punch of flavor, try caramelizing the sauce before mixing it into the meat. This involves letting it reduce slightly longer and even deglazing the pan with an extra splash of Dr. Pepper after sautéing your aromatics.
Why It Works:
Concentrates the flavor
Adds a deeper, richer glaze
Helps the sauce cling better to the meat
Make-Ahead Tips and Freezer Instructions
This sauce is perfect for prepping ahead. It freezes well and even gets better after a day or two as the flavors meld.
Storage Tips:
Fridge: Store in a mason jar or glass container for up to 7 days
Freezer: Freeze in small portions in silicone trays for up to 2 months
Reheat: Warm over low heat, stirring occasionally
Scaling the Recipe for Parties or Meal Prep
Need to serve a crowd? Just scale up the measurements. Double or triple the batch and store in separate containers. It’s a hit at parties, tailgates, or game nights.
Quick Scaling Guide:
| Serving Size | Dr. Pepper | Ketchup | Brown Sugar | Vinegar |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 servings | 1 cup | 1/2 cup | 2 tbsp | 2 tbsp |
| 8 servings | 2 cups | 1 cup | 4 tbsp | 4 tbsp |
| 12 servings | 3 cups | 1.5 cup | 6 tbsp | 6 tbsp |
Building the Ultimate Dr. Pepper BBQ Sloppy Joe – Meat, Bun, and Sauce Harmony
How to Properly Cook the Meat for Maximum Flavor
When it comes to sloppy joes, the meat is the base that holds it all together. The way you prepare and season it can drastically impact how the final sandwich tastes. For this recipe, you’ll want your meat juicy, browned, and slightly caramelized to stand up against the bold Dr. Pepper BBQ sauce.
Ground Meat Cooking Steps:
Heat your skillet or cast iron pan on medium-high. Add 1 tbsp of oil or butter.
Add the ground beef or protein of choice, breaking it apart with a spatula as it browns.
Don’t rush the browning process. Let it sit untouched for 1–2 minutes to get a deep crust.
Once fully cooked, drain excess fat if needed, especially with high-fat meats like 80/20 beef.
Season lightly with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika before adding sauce.
Tip: Use a splash of Dr. Pepper to deglaze the pan before adding the sauce. This helps release flavorful bits stuck to the bottom.
Integrating the Sauce and Simmering It In
Once your meat is browned and ready, it’s time to bring in the star of the show: your homemade Dr. Pepper BBQ sauce. Timing and technique are crucial here.
Best Integration Method:
Reduce heat to low.
Pour in your prepared sauce (about 3/4 cup per 1 lb of meat).
Stir thoroughly to coat every piece.
Let it simmer for 10–15 minutes, uncovered, stirring occasionally.
If the sauce reduces too much, add 1–2 tbsp water or broth to rehydrate.
This simmering process not only thickens the sauce but also allows the flavors to penetrate the meat fully.
Don’t miss our guide to mastering BBQ sauce blends to enhance your flavor layering skills.
Choosing the Perfect Bun to Complement the Sauce
Your bun acts as the vessel—and the right one can elevate your sandwich while the wrong one can ruin the texture entirely. The Dr. Pepper BBQ Sloppy Joe is messy by nature, so your bun must be soft yet sturdy.
Recommended Buns:
Brioche buns: Soft and buttery, they enhance sweetness
Potato rolls: Ideal for sauce-heavy dishes due to their structure
Pretzel buns: Great for a savory, chewy contrast
Toasted hamburger buns: Standard option but toast lightly to prevent sogginess
Pro Tip: Lightly butter and toast the buns on a skillet for added crunch and flavor.
Creative Bun Alternatives
Looking to mix things up or make the dish gluten-free? Here are some creative alternatives to traditional buns:
Lettuce wraps: Great for low-carb eaters
Hawaiian rolls (slider style): For mini versions of the classic
Cornbread muffins: Cut in half and use as “buns”
Gluten-free sandwich rolls: Widely available in most grocery stores
Toppings and Textures That Elevate the Experience
You’ve got your meat and sauce combo locked in, now it’s time to talk toppings. These optional layers add texture, balance, and flavor dimension.
Top Topping Options:
Coleslaw: Adds crunch and acidity that balances the sweet sauce
Pickled jalapeños: For a spicy bite
Crispy onions: A crunchy contrast to the soft meat
Shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese: Melts into the sauce
Sliced dill pickles: For a zesty punch
Assembling Your Dr. Pepper BBQ Sloppy Joe
Let’s put it all together. Layering matters, especially when dealing with moist fillings and soft bread.
Build Order:
Bottom bun (toasted)
Spoon a generous helping of saucy meat
Optional cheese (if using, place now to melt)
Add crunchy toppings like slaw or onions
Pickles or jalapeños next
Top bun (toasted and slightly buttered)
Press down gently and serve hot.
Looking for inspiration? Try our loaded sandwich stack recipes for next-level topping ideas.
Serving Suggestions and Side Pairings
To complete your meal, pair your sloppy joe with sides that balance the richness of the meat and sauce.
Top Side Dishes:
Sweet potato fries: Complement the sauce’s sweetness
Grilled corn on the cob: Adds smoky flavor
Classic potato salad: Creamy, cold contrast
Baked beans: Stick with the BBQ theme
Chips and pickles: Crunchy and acidic to reset the palate
Frequently Asked Questions
. How do you make Dr Pepper BBQ sauce from scratch?
To make a simple Dr Pepper BBQ sauce, combine 1 cup of Dr. Pepper with ½ cup ketchup, 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 2 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, and spices like garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Simmer for 15–20 minutes until thickened.
What is Dr Pepper jalapeño BBQ sauce?
This variation adds sliced or pureed jalapeños to the classic Dr Pepper BBQ sauce for a spicier kick. You can also use chipotle in adobo for a smoky flavor profile.
Is there a Dr Pepper burger recipe?
Yes, Dr Pepper is often used in BBQ burgers either as a glaze or mixed into homemade BBQ sauce. It adds a sweet, tangy layer that complements grilled beef perfectly.
Can Dr Pepper BBQ sauce be used for ribs?
Absolutely. Dr Pepper BBQ sauce is ideal for ribs thanks to its sticky texture and sweet-spicy balance. Brush it on during the final 15 minutes of grilling or baking to avoid burning the sugars.
There’s something wildly satisfying about the sweet, tangy, smoky blend of flavors in Dr. Pepper Barbecue Sloppy Joes. From the depth added by the soda to the savory richness of the meat and the comfort of a buttery toasted bun, this dish hits every note. It’s easy to make, easy to customize, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser at any table—from weeknight dinners to game-day spreads.
Check out our full collection of unexpected soda-based recipes to keep experimenting in your kitchen.
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