These turkey burgers are a healthier twist on the classic! Juicy ground turkey makes a tasty patty, loaded with flavors from spices and herbs that everyone will love.
They’re easy to make, and I like to load mine up with fresh toppings. Trust me, a little avocado or some crunchy lettuce adds a nice touch. Yum! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This is the star of the show! Ground turkey is lean and healthy, but you can also swap it for ground chicken or even beef if you prefer. Just remember that the flavor will be different with each option.
Breadcrumbs: They help bind the burgers and give a nice texture. If you’re looking to make it gluten-free, you can use almond flour or crushed cornflakes as a substitute.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a lovely umami flavor. If you’re not a fan, mozzarella or cheddar will work too. Nutritional yeast can also be a great dairy-free option that mimics the cheesy flavor.
Onion & Garlic: These enhance the flavor tremendously. You can use onion powder and garlic powder if you’re short on fresh ones. Some folks like using scallions for a milder taste.
How Can You Ensure Your Turkey Burgers Are Juicy and Flavorful?
To make the best turkey burgers, here’s what to focus on while mixing and cooking:
- Don’t overmix the ingredients; just combine until blended. Overmixing can make the burgers tough.
- Shape patties to be slightly larger than the buns. They will shrink a bit while cooking.
- Preheat your grill or skillet properly. A good sear at the beginning helps lock in moisture.
- Check the internal temperature carefully. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C) for safety but avoid cooking them too long to keep them juicy.
- Let the cooked patties rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This helps redistribute juices and keeps them moist.
How to Make Turkey Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Turkey Patties:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembling the Burgers:
- 4 sesame burger buns
- Lettuce leaves
- Sliced pickles
- Sliced red onion
- Additional condiments (optional, like mustard or mayonnaise)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to cook. So, in total, you should be ready to enjoy your turkey burgers in about 30-35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, or the burgers can become tough.
2. Shaping the Patties:
Once the mixture is ready, divide it into four equal portions. Shape each portion into a patty that’s about 1/2 inch thick. This size helps them cook evenly and stay juicy!
3. Cooking the Patties:
Now, it’s time to cook! Preheat your grill or skillet over medium heat. If you’d like, lightly oil the grill or pan to prevent the patties from sticking. Place the turkey patties on the grill or in the skillet and cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You’re looking for them to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and be no longer pink in the center.
4. Toasting the Buns:
While the patties are cooking, you can toast the sesame burger buns. You can do this on the grill, if you have space, or in a toaster until they’re golden brown. Toasted buns add a nice crunch!
5. Assembling the Burgers:
Now it’s time to put your burgers together! Start by placing a cooked turkey patty on the bottom half of each bun. Top each patty with fresh lettuce, sliced pickles, and sliced red onion. If you want to add any extra condiments like mustard or mayonnaise, now is the time! Finally, place the top half of the bun over the toppings.
6. Serving Your Delicious Turkey Burgers:
Serve your turkey burgers immediately, and feel free to pair them with fries or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Turkey?
Yes, you can substitute ground chicken for turkey in this recipe! Just be aware that ground chicken can sometimes be a bit leaner, so you might want to add a little olive oil or extra cheese to keep the burgers juicy and flavorful.
What Can I Use Instead of Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have breadcrumbs on hand, you can use crushed crackers, oat flour, or even panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier texture. For a gluten-free option, substitute with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
How to Store Leftover Turkey Burgers?
Store any leftover cooked turkey burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to keep them moist, or microwave until heated through.
Can I Freeze Uncooked Turkey Burger Patties?
Absolutely! Shape the patties and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for about an hour until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw them overnight in the fridge before cooking.
