Ready in: 30 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Grilling · Storage: 3 days in the refrigerator.
Quick Answer
This turkey burger recipe combines ground turkey with fresh ingredients and spices, creating a juicy, hearty meal perfect for any holiday gathering.
As the vibrant colors of autumn paint the parks of New York City, I find myself yearning for hearty, yet light meals that embody the flavors of the season. With Thanksgiving and Christmas around the corner, it’s the perfect time to rethink the classic comfort food—we all love a good burger, right? This turkey burger recipe brings together a delightful medley of fresh ingredients, flavorful spices, and a juicy patty that will please everyone at your holiday gatherings.
A Healthy Holiday Twist
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Healthy alternative to traditional beef burgers with lean ground turkey.
- Flavor-packed with fresh herbs and spices, enhancing your dining experience.
- Easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.
- Versatile toppings allow you to customize each burger to your liking.
- Leftovers are easy to store and reheat for quick meals any time.
Ingredients:
This turkey burger recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that create a delightful flavor profile.
Turkey Burger Mixture:
- 1 pound ground turkey (preferably 93% lean)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (whole-wheat is recommended)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Burger Assembly:
- 4 whole wheat burger buns
- Toppings: lettuce, tomato slices, avocado, or your favorite condiments
How to Make Turkey Burgers (Step-by-Step):
Follow these simple steps to create delicious turkey burgers that are sure to impress.
Step 1: Prepare the Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and fresh parsley. I love getting my hands in there to mix everything evenly until it feels slightly sticky. The aroma of fresh garlic and herbs wafts through the air—so inviting!
Step 2: Form the Patties
Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape them into patties, about 1/2 inch thick. Press a small indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb; this helps them cook evenly and prevents puffing. Place them on a plate and let them rest while you heat your cooking surface.
Step 3: Cooking the Patties
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat. If using a cast iron skillet, I recommend a touch of olive oil to prevent sticking. Once hot, add the patties. The sizzle as they hit the pan is music to my ears! Cook for about 5-6 minutes on one side, until golden brown and a bit crispy. Flip them gently and continue cooking for another 5-6 minutes, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F. You’re looking for that perfect, juicy bite!
Step 4: Assemble the Burgers
Toast the burger buns lightly while the patties finish cooking. This adds a delightful crunch and warmth. Place your turkey patty on the bottom bun and yield to your creative instincts—stack up lettuce, tomato, and a generous scoop of avocado for creaminess. The contrast of textures will have your taste buds dancing.
Step 5: Serve
Serve immediately with your favorite side dish—maybe seasonal sweet potato fries or a light salad.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the turkey: This can lead to tough burgers. Just mix until combined; a little tug of tenderness is ideal.
- Cooking at too high heat: This can cause the outside to burn while leaving the center uncooked. Medium heat is your friend here.
- Skipping the resting step: Letting the patties rest for a few minutes before serving helps retain their juices, keeping them succulent.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- For added moisture, mix in a couple of tablespoons of plain Greek yogurt or avocado.
- Experiment with different spices to match your palate—cumin or chili powder can offer a nice kick.
- If you prefer a grill mark aesthetic, use an outdoor grill, but ensure it’s well-preheated!
Variations
- Substitute ground chicken for turkey for a different flavor.
- Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.
- Add finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or onions for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Incorporate different herbs such as cilantro or basil for a unique twist.
How to Serve
- Pair with seasonal sweet potato fries.
- Serve with a light salad for a refreshing side dish.
- Top with your favorite condiments like BBQ sauce, aioli, or sriracha.
- Accompany with pickles or coleslaw for added crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the turkey burger mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator for easier assembly later.
- Storage: Store any leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
- Freezing: Wrap leftover patties tightly in plastic wrap and foil to freeze for quick weeknight meals later on.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Making turkey burgers has shown me the beauty of simplicity in cooking; a few quality ingredients can create a memorable dish that’s both healthy and satisfying. Plus, they’re versatile enough to cater to various dietary preferences—everyone leaves the table happy!
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 burgers · Serving Size: 1 burger
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~350 calories · 30g protein · 30g carbs · 12g fat
Delicious Turkey Burger Recipe for Holidays
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and fresh parsley. Mix until slightly sticky.
- Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape them into patties, about 1/2 inch thick. Create a small indentation in the center of each patty.
- Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat. Optionally, add a touch of olive oil. Cook the patties for 5-6 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 5-6 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Toast the burger buns lightly and assemble the burgers with toppings such as lettuce, tomato, and avocado.
- Serve immediately with your favorite side dish.
Notes
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, ground chicken can be used as a substitute for ground turkey in this recipe. It will still yield a delicious burger, although the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
How can I make these burgers spicier?
You can add spices like cayenne pepper or chili powder to the turkey mixture for a spicy kick. Additionally, consider using spicy condiments or toppings to enhance the heat level.
What sides pair well with turkey burgers?
Turkey burgers pair wonderfully with sweet potato fries, a fresh garden salad, or roasted vegetables. You can choose sides based on your dietary preferences or seasonal availability.
