Get ready for these juicy turkey burgers that are easy to whip up for dinner! They are packed with flavor and perfect for a weeknight meal. You can dress them up with toppings or keep it simple!
These burgers are a hit at my house, especially when I pile on the toppings—cheese, lettuce, and a little bit of ketchup. Trust me, you’ll want to make them again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: I recommend using 93% lean for the best balance of flavor and moisture. If you want a leaner option, 99% lean turkey works but may be dryer. You could also use ground chicken if preferred.
Onion: Yellow onions add sweetness, but if you prefer a milder taste, you can use green onions or shallots instead. Avoid red onions for mixing into the burger, as they can be a little too strong.
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs help with binding. If you’re gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. You can even grind oats for a healthy alternative!
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds a nice umami flavor. If it’s not available, soy sauce can be used as a substitute, but it’ll change the color slightly—still delicious!
How Do I Keep My Turkey Burgers Moist?
Keeping turkey burgers juicy can be tricky since turkey is leaner than beef. Here are some tips to help you out:
- Use a mix of ground turkey with some fat (like 93% lean) to help with moisture.
- Mix the ingredients gently; overmixing makes the patties tough.
- Press a small indentation in the center of each patty before cooking. This helps it stay flat and cook evenly without puffing up.
- Cook on medium-high heat to get a nice sear while ensuring the inside stays juicy.
Juicy Turkey Burgers Recipe for Easy Dinners
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Turkey Patties:
- 1 lb ground turkey (preferably 93% lean, 7% fat for juiciness)
- 1/4 cup finely diced onion
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra flavor)
For Cooking and Serving:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
- 4 sandwich buns, toasted
- Lettuce leaves
- Tomato slices
- Red onion slices
- Mayonnaise or your favorite burger sauce
Time Needed:
You will need about 10 minutes for preparation and around 12-15 minutes for cooking. In total, expect to spend about 25-30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and delicious dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Patty Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, finely diced onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if you’re using it). Mix all the ingredients gently using your hands or a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the meat, as this can make the burgers tough.
2. Shape the Patties:
Now, divide the mixture into 4 equal portions. Shape each portion into a patty that is about 3/4 inch thick. To help them cook evenly and avoid puffing up, press a small indentation into the center of each patty using your thumb.
3. Cook the Patties:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the turkey patties to the skillet. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they are nicely browned and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer for best results!
4. Toast the Buns:
While the burgers are cooking, toast the sandwich buns lightly in a toaster or on another skillet until they are golden and crisp. This adds a nice touch and helps hold up the toppings!
5. Assemble Your Burgers:
To build your burger, start by spreading mayonnaise on the bottom half of each bun. Then, add a crisp lettuce leaf, a slice of tomato, and the turkey patty. Top it off with some slices of red onion and then place the top bun on.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Dig into your delicious turkey burgers right away! They pair wonderfully with fries, a side salad, or your favorite sides. Enjoy your effortless and tasty dinner!
FAQs About Juicy Turkey Burgers
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken works well in this recipe and offers a similar flavor and texture. Just ensure you cook it to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) as well!
How Can I Make These Burgers Gluten-Free?
To make gluten-free turkey burgers, simply substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs, crushed gluten-free crackers, or ground oats. The rest of the ingredients should be gluten-free as well!
Can I Prepare the Patties Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the patties in advance! Shape them and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. For longer storage, freeze the uncooked patties, separating them with parchment paper, for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before cooking.
What Can I Use Instead of Worcestershire Sauce?
If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce is a great substitute. You can also create your own mix using soy sauce, vinegar, and a touch of sugar for a similar flavor. Just keep in mind that soy sauce will make the burgers a bit darker in color.
