Turkey burgers are a tasty twist on the classic burger! They’re lean, juicy, and packed with flavor, perfect for a simple meal. Add your favorite toppings for an extra kick!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a good burger? My kids are huge fans, and I enjoy making them together, especially when we get creative with the toppings! 🍔
Making turkey burgers is super easy for me. Just mix the turkey with some spices, shape them into patties, and grill or pan-cook them. Healthy and delicious in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This is the main protein in your burger. However, you can also use ground chicken or even lean beef if that’s what you have. Remember, turkey is lower in fat, which is why it’s a popular choice!
Bread Crumbs: Whole wheat breadcrumbs add nutrition and a nice texture. For a gluten-free option, try using almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. Just be mindful of the moisture when substituting.
Onion and Garlic: Fresh onion and garlic provide great flavor. If you’re in a hurry, you can use onion powder and garlic powder instead. Fresh is usually best for the taste though!
Worcestershire Sauce: This sauce adds depth to the flavor. If you’re avoiding it due to dietary restrictions, try soy sauce or a splash of balsamic vinegar as alternatives.
Dijon Mustard: Dijon gives a nice bite to the burgers. If you don’t have it, yellow mustard will work fine, or even a bit of prepared horseradish for extra zing!
How Do I Shape Perfect Turkey Patties?
Shaping patties seems simple, but it can affect how they cook. Here’s how to do it right:
- First, make sure your hands are slightly wet. This helps prevent sticking.
- Use a scale or measuring cup to divide the mixture into equal portions. Each should be about 1/4 lb.
- Gently shape the mixture into patties without packing them too tightly. This keeps them tender.
- Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty. This helps them cook evenly and prevents them from puffing up.
With these tips, your turkey burgers will be perfectly uniform and delicious!
How to Make Delicious Turkey Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Turkey Patties:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat)
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp paprika (optional)
For Assembly:
- 4 hamburger buns (preferably sesame)
- 1 cup lettuce, shredded
- 1/2 cup pickles, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and about 12-15 minutes to cook. So in total, you’re looking at about 25-30 minutes to enjoy a delicious homemade turkey burger!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Turkey Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix together the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and if you like, paprika. Use your hands or a spoon to combine the ingredients until just mixed—try not to overmix, as this can make the patties tough!
2. Shape the Patties:
Divide the turkey mixture into four equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then gently flatten it to form a patty that’s about 1/2 inch thick. This helps them cook evenly!
3. Preheat and Cook the Patties:
Heat a grill or large skillet over medium heat. Lightly grease it using cooking spray or a drop of oil to prevent sticking. Place the patties on the grill or skillet and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
4. Toast the Buns:
If you’d like, you can toast the hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster for a couple of minutes until they are warm and slightly crispy—this adds a nice touch!
5. Assemble the Burgers:
To put it all together, take a toasted hamburger bun, place a turkey patty on the bottom half, and then top it with shredded lettuce, sliced pickles, and thinly sliced red onion. Finally, add the top half of the bun.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your turkey burgers right away, paired with your favorite side dish like sweet potato fries or a simple salad. Dive in and enjoy every bite!
Can I Substitute Ground Turkey with Another Meat?
Absolutely! You can use ground chicken, lean beef, or even ground pork as alternatives. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the fat content of the meat, so ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.
What If I Don’t Have Breadcrumbs?
No problem! You can use crushed crackers, old bread crumbs, or even rolled oats as a substitute. If using oats, you may want to process them a bit in a blender to create finer crumbs. Just ensure the texture still holds together when forming the patties.
Can I Make the Patties in Advance?
Definitely! You can shape the patties ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. If you want to store them longer, freeze them individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then in a freezer bag. They can be cooked frozen, just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
How Should I Store Leftover Turkey Burgers?
Store any leftover turkey burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Enjoy them within a few days for the best flavor and texture!
