These juicy turkey burgers are a tasty and healthy choice for any meal! Made with lean turkey and packed with flavor, they’re perfect for grilling or cooking indoors.
My favorite part? They’re so simple to make that even on busy days, I can whip them up in no time. Serve them with your favorite toppings and enjoy a delicious, guilt-free bite!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: Lean ground turkey is the star of this dish. You can also use ground chicken. If you’re looking for something a little richer, ground beef can work too, but it’ll be less healthy.
Onion and Garlic: Fresh chopped onion and minced garlic add great flavor. If you’re short on time, onion powder and garlic powder can substitute, but fresh is always best!
Breadcrumbs: Whole wheat breadcrumbs help bind the burgers for a denser texture. You can swap this for oats or even crushed tortilla chips if you’re looking for a gluten-free option.
Worcestershire Sauce & Dijon Mustard: These add depth of flavor. If you don’t have them, a splash of soy sauce or a squeeze of lemon can substitute. I’ve found that adding a little extra mustard gives a nice kick!
Buns: Whole wheat buns are healthier, but brioche gives a lovely sweetness. You can also use lettuce wraps for a low-carb version.
How Do I Keep My Turkey Burgers from Drying Out?
Turkey is lean and can dry out easily, so keeping it juicy is key. Here are some tips:
- Don’t overmix the meat. Mix until just combined to keep the patties tender.
- Make a small indentation in the center of each patty before cooking. This helps them cook evenly and prevents puffing up.
- Cook on medium heat to avoid burning the outside while keeping the inside juicy.
- Let the patties rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps redistribute the juices.
By following these steps, you’ll have juicy turkey burgers every time! Enjoy your meal! 🍔
Juicy Turkey Burgers: Easy and Healthy Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb (450g) ground turkey (preferably lean)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 egg (to help bind)
- 1/4 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs (or regular)
- Olive oil for cooking
For Serving:
- 4 whole wheat or brioche burger buns
- Lettuce leaves
- Tomato slices
- Red onion slices
- Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt sauce for spreading
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious turkey burger recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 12-15 minutes to cook. So, you can have juicy, healthy burgers ready in about 25 minutes! Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or weekend cookout!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Burger Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika (if using), egg, and breadcrumbs. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until everything is just combined. Try not to overwork the meat, as this can make the burgers tough.
2. Shape the Patties:
Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions. Shape each portion into a patty about ¾ inch thick. Press a slight indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb; this helps them cook evenly and prevents them from puffing up while cooking.
3. Cook the Patties:
Preheat a grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium heat. Lightly brush the cooking surface with olive oil to prevent sticking. Cook the patties for about 5-6 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and are browned on the outside.
4. Toast the Buns:
While the patties are cooking, you can lightly toast the burger buns on the grill or in a toaster. This adds a lovely crunch and flavor!
5. Assemble the Burgers:
To assemble each burger, spread a thin layer of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt sauce on the bottom bun. Add a leaf of lettuce, a slice of tomato, the cooked turkey burger patty, and some red onion slices. Place the top bun on to finish it off.
6. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve your juicy turkey burgers immediately with your favorite side dishes like sweet potato fries, a fresh salad, or some crispy veggies. Enjoy your healthy and delicious turkey burgers!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Turkey?
Yes, you can definitely substitute ground chicken for ground turkey in this recipe! Both will yield a delicious burger, but just be mindful of the cooking time, as chicken may cook a little faster.
How Can I Make These Burgers Spicier?
If you’re looking to add a bit of heat, consider mixing in some diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce into the turkey mixture. You can also top your burgers with spicy mayo or sriracha for an extra kick!
How to Store Leftover Turkey Burgers?
Store any leftover cooked turkey burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until warmed through. For best results, avoid deep freezing as it may affect the texture.
Can I Grill These Burgers Instead of Cooking on the Stove?
Absolutely! Grilling adds a wonderful smoky flavor to the burgers. Preheat your grill to medium heat and cook the patties for about 5-6 minutes on each side, just like you would on the stove. Make sure to oil the grill grates to prevent sticking!
