These turkey burgers are juicy, tasty, and a healthier option for burger lovers! Made with ground turkey and simple seasonings, they pack a punch of flavor without all the extra fat.
My favorite part? You can add your favorite toppings like cheese, lettuce, and tomatoes to make them just how you like! It’s like a party on a plate! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This is the star of your turkey burgers. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground chicken works just as well. For a richer flavor, you can use dark meat turkey.
Breadcrumbs: While optional, breadcrumbs help bind the turkey mixture. If you’re avoiding gluten, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats. I sometimes skip them entirely for a lighter burger!
Onion and Garlic: Both add great flavor! If you prefer a milder taste, try using green onions or shallots instead of regular onions.
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds depth. If you don’t have it, soy sauce or a splash of balsamic vinegar can substitute. It’s not the same but offers a nice flavor twist.
Cilantro or Parsley: Fresh herbs brighten things up! If you’re not a cilantro fan, parsley is great, or you could use fresh basil or even dill for a unique taste.
How Do I Get the Turkey Patties to Cook Just Right?
Cooking turkey patties can be tricky, as turkey is leaner than beef. Here are key tips:
- Make sure to preheat your grill or skillet beforehand for even cooking.
- Cook on medium heat to avoid burning the outside while ensuring the inside is fully cooked.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—165°F (75°C) is the safe internal temperature.
- Let the patties rest for a couple of minutes after cooking. This allows juices to redistribute, keeping your burgers moist.
How to Make Turkey Burgers?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Turkey Patties:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional for binding)
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional)
For Assembly:
- 4 burger buns (preferably sesame seed)
- Lettuce leaves (for topping)
- Slices of pickles (for topping)
- Slices of red onion (for topping)
- Condiments (such as mayo, mustard, or ketchup)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time and approximately 15 minutes of cooking time. Overall, you’ll spend about 30 minutes to have delicious turkey burgers ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Turkey Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs (if you’re using them), chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, paprika, dried oregano, and cilantro or parsley (if desired). Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until well combined. It’s important to mix gently to keep the turkey tender!
2. Shape the Patties:
Once your mixture is ready, divide it into four equal portions. Shape each portion into a patty that is about 3/4 inch thick. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb; this helps them cook evenly.
3. Cook the Patties:
Preheat your grill or skillet over medium heat. Lightly grease it with cooking spray or a little oil to keep the patties from sticking. Place the turkey patties on the hot grill or skillet. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and have an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This ensures they are safe and juicy!
4. Toast the Buns:
If you like your buns crispy, you can toast them lightly on the grill or in a toaster while the patties are cooking. It adds a nice crunch to your burger!
5. Assemble Your Burgers:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Place a cooked turkey patty on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Top with fresh lettuce, slices of pickles, red onion, and any condiments you love—don’t hold back!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your turkey burgers are ready! Serve them immediately with a side of crispy fries or a fresh salad. Enjoy your tasty homemade turkey burgers with family or friends!
Can I Use Leaner Ground Turkey for These Burgers?
Absolutely! Lean ground turkey (like 93% lean) works great, but keep in mind that it may result in drier patties. To keep them juicy, consider adding a little olive oil to the mixture or using a higher-fat ground turkey blend (like 85% lean). You can also add extra moisture by incorporating an additional tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce.
What If I Don’t Have Breadcrumbs?
No worries! If you’re out of breadcrumbs, you can easily substitute them with oats or crushed crackers. Alternatively, you can omit them completely if you don’t need extra binding—just make sure to handle the patties gently to keep them from falling apart. You can also mix in a beaten egg for extra binding!
Can I Make These Burgers Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the patties ahead of time! Form them and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the patties. Just layer them with parchment paper and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll be good for up to 3 months; just thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking.
How Can I Tell When the Burgers Are Done Cooking?
The best way to ensure your turkey burgers are fully cooked is by checking their internal temperature. Aim for 165°F (75°C) using a meat thermometer. If you don’t have one, cut a patty open; it should be no longer pink inside and the juices should run clear. Happy grilling!
