These turkey burgers are a tasty twist on the classic! They’re juicy and packed with flavor, making them perfect for a fun barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner.
I love how easy they are to prepare. Just mix, shape, and grill! Top with your favorite fixings and enjoy a delicious meal that’s also a bit lighter. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This is the star of the burger! If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground chicken also works well. For a richer flavor, you might try ground beef or lamb, though they will change the calorie count.
Breadcrumbs: I prefer using plain or Italian-style breadcrumbs for flavor. If gluten-free is your goal, you can swap them with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed oats.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a nice savory touch. If you don’t have Parmesan, try Pecorino Romano or even a dairy-free cheese for a similar effect.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings out the best flavor. If you’re in a rush, garlic powder can be a substitute, but use less since it’s more concentrated.
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds a depth of flavor. If you don’t have it, soy sauce or balsamic vinegar can work as substitutes, although they will change the flavor profile slightly.
How Do I Make Sure My Turkey Burgers Stay Juicy?
Keeping turkey burgers juicy can be tricky since turkey is leaner than other meats. Here are some helpful tips:
- Don’t overmix! Gently combine the ingredients; this keeps the patties tender.
- Create an indentation in the center of each patty. This helps them cook evenly, reducing the chance of dryness.
- Cook at medium heat. Cooking them too hot will dry them out, while cooking too low can lead to undercooked centers.
- Use an instant-read thermometer. Turkey should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety and juiciness.
How to Make Delicious 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 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
For Assembling The Burgers:
- 4 sesame burger buns
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup sliced pickles
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- Optional: condiments (ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This turkey burger recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at around 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Turkey Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, add the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the burgers tough.
2. Shape the Patties:
Next, divide the mixture into 4 equal portions. Take each portion and shape it into a burger patty, making a small indentation in the center of each patty. This helps them cook evenly and prevents them from puffing up while cooking.
3. Cook the Turkey Patties:
Now it’s time to cook! Preheat your grill or skillet over medium heat and lightly oil it to prevent the patties from sticking. Place the patties on the grill or skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side. They should be golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
4. Toast the Buns:
While the patties are cooking, you can toast the sesame buns. Add them to the grill or skillet until they’re lightly golden, which typically takes a couple of minutes.
5. Assemble Your Turkey Burgers:
Once the patties are cooked and the buns are toasted, it’s time to assemble! Start by placing a turkey patty on the bottom half of each bun. Top with a generous amount of shredded lettuce, a few slices of pickles, and some thinly sliced red onion. Don’t forget to add any condiments you like, such as ketchup, mustard, or mayonnaise!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Place the top half of the bun on each assembled burger, and you’re ready to serve! Enjoy these delicious turkey burgers hot and fresh!
Can I Substitute Ground Turkey with Another Meat?
Absolutely! You can use ground chicken or lean ground beef as a substitute. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so make sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for poultry and 160°F (71°C) for beef.
What Can I Use Instead of Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have breadcrumbs on hand, you can use crushed crackers, oats, or even almond flour for a gluten-free option. If using oats, make sure to blend them slightly to achieve a finer texture similar to breadcrumbs.
How Should I Store Leftover Turkey Burgers?
Store any leftover burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat or the microwave for a couple of minutes, ensuring they reach a safe temperature of 165°F (75°C) before eating.
Can I Make These Turkey Burgers Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can shape the patties and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. Alternatively, you can freeze the uncooked patties for up to 3 months. Just make sure to separate them with parchment paper to prevent sticking, and thaw them in the fridge overnight before cooking.
