These juicy grilled turkey burgers are packed with flavor and make for a tasty, healthier twist on classic beef burgers. They’re perfect for summer barbecues!
I love how easy they are to whip up, plus they grill in no time! Serve them up with your favorite toppings, and you’ll have a hit meal that everyone will enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This is the star of the show! If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground chicken works well too. For more flavor, you can also try ground beef or even a mix of turkey and beef for juicier burgers.
Breadcrumbs: These add a nice texture, but if you want to skip them, oatmeal or crushed crackers can be used as substitutes. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are great for those with dietary restrictions.
Parmesan Cheese: I love using grated Parmesan for its rich flavor. You can swap it with Romano cheese or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. Both will add a different twist!
Cheese: Swiss and provolone are my favorites for these burgers, but feel free to switch it up! Cheddar or pepper jack can add a nice flavor kick. Experiment with your preferred cheese!
How Do You Keep Turkey Burgers from Getting Dry?
Turkey can dry out easily, but there are tips to ensure your burgers stay juicy. Mixing the ingredients gently is crucial—overmixing can make them tough. Also, the indentation in the patty helps them cook evenly without puffing up, keeping moisture inside.
- Use a medium-high heat for grilling, which helps seal in the juices quickly.
- Always check the internal temperature at 165°F (75°C) for safety, but don’t overcook them.
- Rest the patties for a few minutes after grilling—this allows the juices to redistribute, making them more succulent.
How to Make Juicy Grilled Turkey Burgers?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burger Patties:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional for texture)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices of cheese (Swiss or provolone)
For Assembly:
- 4 hamburger buns
- Lettuce leaves
- 1 tomato, sliced
- Red onion, thinly sliced
- Olive oil (for grilling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to grill, totaling around 30 minutes. You’ll have juicy, delicious turkey burgers ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Burger Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs (if using), Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Gently mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make your burgers tough.
2. Shape the Patties:
Divide the turkey mixture into four equal portions and shape each one into a patty about 3/4 inch thick. To keep your patties from puffing up on the grill, make a small indentation in the center of each one with your thumb.
3. Preheat the Grill:
Get your grill ready by preheating it to medium-high heat. To keep things from sticking, lightly coat the grill grates with a bit of olive oil using a paper towel or brush.
4. Grill the Turkey Patties:
Place the patties on the grill and cook them for about 5-6 minutes on one side. After that, carefully flip the burgers over and place a slice of cheese on top of each one. Cook for another 5-6 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the turkey reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Toast the Buns:
While the burgers are grilling, place the hamburger buns on the grill to toast until they are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
6. Assemble Your Burgers:
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Start by placing a lettuce leaf on the bottom half of each bun. Next, add the grilled turkey burger on top, followed by a few slices of tomato and some thin slices of red onion. Finally, place the top half of the bun on each burger.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your juicy grilled turkey burgers right away while they’re hot and delicious! Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Extra Lean Ground Turkey for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just keep in mind that extra lean ground turkey may result in slightly drier burgers since it has less fat. To combat this, you can add a bit more olive oil or yogurt to the mixture to help keep the burgers moist.
How to Store Leftover Turkey Burgers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the patties individually wrapped in plastic wrap or in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Can I Substitute Breadcrumbs with Something Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free bread crumbs, crushed gluten-free crackers, or even ground oats as a substitute. It will still add some texture to the burgers without gluten.
What Toppings Work Well With Turkey Burgers?
You can customize your burgers with various toppings! Consider adding avocado, sautéed mushrooms, or even jalapeños for a kick. Dress it up with your favorite condiments like mustard, mayo, or a spicy aioli for added flavor!
