These juicy grilled turkey burgers are a tasty twist on the classic burger! Packed with flavor and easy to make, they are perfect for summer cookouts or weeknight dinners.
Trust me, once you bite into one, you’ll be hooked! I love to pile on my favorite toppings, and the best part? They’re lighter than beef, so I can enjoy more without the guilt! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This is the star of the show! Ground turkey is a lean meat that makes juicy burgers. If you’re looking for a richer flavor, you can use ground chicken or even lean beef if you prefer.
Bread Crumbs: These add texture to the burgers. They are optional, but they help bind the mixture. If you’re gluten-free, try using almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers instead!
Onion and Garlic: These two ingredients enhance the flavor a lot! If you have shallots or green onions on hand, they both work well. You can also skip them for a milder taste.
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds a savory kick. If you don’t have it, soy sauce or miso paste can be a great substitute. They add umami flavor too!
Cheese: Swiss and mozzarella melt beautifully on these burgers. For something different, you can try cheddar, pepper jack, or even feta cheese for a tangy touch!
How Do I Keep My Turkey Burgers From Puffing Up?
Puffing is a common issue with turkey burgers due to the lean meat. The trick is to shape each patty with a slight indentation in the center. This helps them cook evenly and stay flat while grilling. Here’s how:
- After mixing your ingredients, divide the mixture into four equal parts.
- Shape each part into a burger patty.
- Press your thumb into the center of each patty to create a small indent.
Don’t overwork the meat when mixing; it helps keep the burgers tender!
How to Make Juicy Grilled Turkey Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Turkey Patties:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for texture)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 4 slices Swiss or mozzarella cheese (optional)
For Assembling:
- 4 burger buns
- Lettuce leaves
- Sliced tomatoes
- Sliced red onion
- Condiments of choice (ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You will need about 15 minutes to prep your ingredients and 10 to 12 minutes to cook the burgers. So, in total, plan for around 30 minutes to have your juicy grilled turkey burgers ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Burger Patties:
In a large bowl, combine your ground turkey with the breadcrumbs (if you’re using them), chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the turkey, as this can make the burgers tough.
2. Shape the Patties:
Next, divide the mixture into four equal portions. Shape each portion into a burger patty, making a slight indentation in the center of each patty. This little trick helps prevent the burgers from puffing up while they cook.
3. Preheat the Grill:
Fire up your grill to medium-high heat. To prevent the burgers from sticking, lightly oil the grill grates using a paper towel dipped in oil or a non-stick spray.
4. Cook the Burgers:
Place the turkey burgers on your hot grill and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side. You’ll want to cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety. If you’re feeling cheesy, lay a slice of cheese on top of each burger in the last minute of cooking to let it melt beautifully.
5. Toast the Buns:
While your burgers are grilling, take your burger buns and toast them on the grill for about 1-2 minutes. You want them to be slightly crispy, adding extra texture to your delicious meal!
6. Assemble Your Burgers:
To build your burgers, start by placing a crisp lettuce leaf on the bottom half of each bun. Lay down the cooked turkey patty on top of the lettuce, followed by the sliced tomatoes and red onions. Feel free to add any condiments you love—ketchup, mustard, or mayonnaise work great!
7. Finish and Serve:
Top off each burger with the other half of the bun and serve them immediately. Enjoy your juicy grilled turkey burgers with your favorite sides—happy eating!
Can I Use Lean Ground Turkey for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use lean ground turkey, but keep in mind that it may result in a drier burger. Consider adding a bit more Worcestershire sauce or a tablespoon of olive oil to help retain moisture and enhance flavor!
What Can I Substitute for Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or oats make great substitutes! You could also try using ground flaxseed for a gluten-free option. Just use the same amount as the recipe calls for to maintain the texture.
How to Store Leftover Turkey Burgers?
Store leftover cooked turkey burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or on the grill for a few minutes on each side until heated through.
Can I Freeze These Turkey Burgers?
Absolutely! Shape the patties and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking for best results!
