These juicy turkey burgers are a great healthy dinner option! Made with lean turkey, fresh herbs, and your favorite spices, they are full of flavor and good for you.
I love how easy they are to make! Just mix, form into patties, and grill them up. Serve on a bun or lettuce wrap. Perfect for a tasty weeknight meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: Lean ground turkey is the main ingredient for these burgers. If you prefer the flavor of chicken, ground chicken is a great substitute. You can also use beef or plant-based ground meat for different flavors!
Onion: A small onion adds moisture and flavor. I recommend yellow or sweet onions for their mild taste. If you’re looking for a milder option, grated zucchini can also work in a pinch!
Breadcrumbs: Whole wheat breadcrumbs help bind the mixture. If you have gluten sensitivities, try using gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed oats.
Worcestershire Sauce: This ingredient adds depth to the flavor. If you can’t find it, a mix of soy sauce and a splash of vinegar can act as a substitute.
Herbs: Fresh parsley brightens the flavor. Feel free to experiment with other herbs like cilantro or basil based on your taste preferences!
How Do You Keep Turkey Burgers Juicy?
Keeping turkey burgers juicy can be tricky since turkey is leaner than beef. Here are some tips to achieve juicy burgers:
- Do Not Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until they are combined. Overmixing can lead to tough burgers.
- Add Moisture: The egg and breadcrumbs are crucial for moisture retention. They create a nice texture and help bind the mixture.
- Cooking Temperature: Preheat your grill or pan to medium heat. Too high a heat can dry out the burgers, while too low can lead to undercooking.
- Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C). This keeps them safe and juicy!
Juicy Turkey Burgers Recipe for Healthy Dinners
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground turkey (preferably lean)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped or grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
- 4 whole wheat burger buns (or preferred type)
- Lettuce leaves
- Tomato slices
- Red onion slices
- Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt (optional for spread)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes to cook, making it roughly a 25-minute meal from start to finish. Quick, easy, and oh-so-tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mixture:
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. In this bowl, combine the ground turkey, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, beaten egg, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything gently until just combined—be careful not to overmix, as this will help keep your burgers nice and juicy!
2. Shape the Patties:
Once your meat mixture is ready, divide it into 4 equal parts. Shape each part into a round patty about 3/4 inch thick. Making them even in size ensures they will cook at the same rate.
3. Cooking Time:
Next, preheat your grill or a non-stick pan over medium heat. If you’re using a stovetop pan, drizzle about a tablespoon of olive oil to keep the patties from sticking. Cook the turkey patties for about 5-6 minutes on each side. You want them to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) while getting a lovely golden-brown color.
4. Toast the Buns:
While the patties are cooking, you can toast your burger buns to give them a crispy texture. Just place them on the grill or in the pan until they’re lightly browned.
5. Build Your Burger:
As the final step, assemble your burgers! Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt on the bottom bun if you like. Then layer on a lettuce leaf, a slice of tomato, your perfectly cooked turkey patty, and a few red onion slices. Finally, top it with the other half of the bun, and voila!
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your juicy turkey burgers immediately, alongside a fresh salad or some roasted veggies for a complete and healthy meal. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Lean Ground Chicken Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Lean ground chicken is a great substitute and will give you a similar flavor and texture. Just be mindful of cooking time, as it may vary slightly.
How Can I Make These Burgers Gluten-Free?
To make gluten-free turkey burgers, simply substitute the whole wheat breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats. Ensure your Worcestershire sauce is also gluten-free, as some brands contain gluten.
Can I Prep the Mixture Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the turkey mixture a day in advance! Just keep it covered in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, shape the patties and follow the cooking steps as usual.
What Is the Best Way to Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover turkey burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use a microwave or warm them in a skillet over medium heat, making sure they’re heated through before serving again.
