Ground Turkey Burgers

These ground turkey burgers have been "on repeat" in my house for a while now. Based on a NY Times recipe, these are so simple yet so full of flavor (I've only increased the onion). Say goodbye to bland and dry turkey burgers with this simple seasoning method. You will LOVE these! Trust me, once you try these, you'll be hooked on these incredible burgers!

Jump to:

• Why I Love This Recipe
• Seasoning for Turkey Burgers
• How to Make
• Cooking Options
• Topping Ideas
• Tips to Prevent Sticking
• Side Dish Ideas
• Storage and Make Ahead
• 📖 Recipe

Why I Love This Recipe

Over the years, I've tried so. many. different. turkey burger recipes (and some non-turkey too!). Some tend to taste too much like turkey meatloaf, which isn't always a bad thing! But I wanted a recipe that was super easy, super tasty, and really moist. This recipe is ALLLL that!

I've already made it multiple times since I first spied it in the NY Times recipe archive. This is a great recipe for a quick weeknight meal. Note: Don't skimp on the onions!

Seasoning for Turkey Burgers

There are few ingredients in this recipe, which is one of the reasons I love it.

Ground Turkey: The main ingredient, lean ground turkey, is used to create the base of the burgers, providing a healthier alternative to beef while offering a mild, versatile flavor.

Worcestershire Sauce: This savory condiment adds depth and umami to the turkey burgers, enhancing their taste and preventing them from being bland.

Ketchup: The sweet and tangy flavor of ketchup complements the turkey's taste and helps to keep the burgers moist during cooking.

Grated Onion: Grated onion in my opinion is the star of the show and is added to the turkey mixture to provide both moisture and flavor to the burgers, preventing them from being dry and infusing them with a delicious onion essence.

Salt: A basic seasoning that enhances the overall flavor of the burgers, ensuring they are well-seasoned and not tasteless.

How to Make

I think the  hardest part of the recipe (if you can even call it "hard") is that you have to grate or chop the onion. You can either use a box grater or even a small food processor to help get that fine mince going.

I've never used the box grater for this recipe, always opting to use the food processor and sometimes even simply chopping it finely by hand on the chopping block. I will definitely get around to grating the onion some day to see how/if it makes a difference.

Cooking Options

You can cook ground turkey burgers in a variety of ways including grill pan, baked in the oven, outdoor grilling, or in an air fryer:

Grill Pan:

1. Preheat the Grill Pan: Place the grill pan on the stovetop and preheat it over medium-high heat. Let it get hot before adding the turkey burgers.
2. Prepare the Patties: Form the fresh turkey burger patties to your desired size and thickness.
3. Cook the Burgers: Lightly brush the grill pan with oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the turkey burger patties on the hot grill pan. Cook the burgers for approximately 4-5 minutes per side, flipping them only once halfway through the cooking time. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the patties and your desired level of doneness.
4. Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey burgers are fully cooked. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
5. Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, remove the turkey burgers from the grill pan and let them rest for a minute. Serve them on buns or lettuce wraps with your favorite toppings and condiments.

Oven:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Patties: Form the fresh turkey burger patties and season them according to the recipe.
3. Cook the Burgers: Place the turkey burger patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can flip them once halfway through the cooking time (total of ~20 minutes) for even browning.
4. Serve and Enjoy: Once done, take the turkey burgers out of the oven and let them rest for a minute before serving. Pair them with your preferred sides and enjoy!

Outdoor Grill:

1. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Clean the grates and lightly oil them to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Patties: Form the fresh turkey burger patties and season them according to your taste.
3. Consider refrigerating the burgers for 30 minutes to firm them up so they don't fall apart during grilling. If your burgers seem to fragile, consider using aluminum foil on the grill or cook them briefly in the oven prior to finishing on the grill.
4. Cook the Burgers: Place the turkey burgers on the preheated grill. Cook them for approximately 4-5 minutes per side, flipping them only once during cooking. The exact cooking time may vary based on the thickness of the patties and the heat of your grill. Don't flip too early or they may fall apart.
5. Check for Doneness: Ensure the turkey burgers reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Once the burgers are fully cooked, take them off the grill and let them rest briefly. Serve the grilled turkey burgers on buns or wraps, and garnish with your favorite toppings and sauces.

Air Fryer:

Air frying fresh turkey burgers is a simple and healthy way to enjoy a tasty meal without the need for excessive oil. Plus, it's a great time-saver, making it perfect for quick weeknight dinners or busy lunch breaks. Enjoy your deliciously cooked turkey burgers!

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Preheating ensures that the air fryer reaches the right temperature for cooking the burgers evenly.
2. Prepare the Patties: If you haven't already, form the fresh turkey burger patties to your desired size and thickness. Make sure they are relatively uniform in size to ensure even cooking.
3. Optional: Brush with Oil: For extra moisture and browning, you can lightly brush the turkey burger patties with olive oil or use a cooking spray.
4. Air Fry the Burgers: Place the turkey burger patties in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding the basket to ensure proper air circulation and even cooking. Depending on the size of your air fryer and the thickness of the patties, you may need to cook them in batches.
5. Cooking Time: Cook the turkey burgers in the preheated air fryer for approximately 10 to 12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. The exact cooking time may vary based on the thickness of the patties and the specific model of your air fryer.
6. Check for Doneness: To ensure the turkey burgers are fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check their internal temperature. The minimum safe temperature for ground turkey is 165°F (74°C). Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the patty to get an accurate reading.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Once the turkey burgers reach the safe internal temperature, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for a minute. Serve them on your favorite buns or lettuce wraps and add your desired toppings and condiments.

Topping Ideas

Toppings can elevate the flavors and textures of turkey burgers, making them even more delicious. Here are some tasty topping ideas to consider:

1. Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices add a rich and buttery element to the turkey burger.
2. Caramelized Onions: Sweet and savory caramelized onions complement the turkey's flavor and add a delightful texture.
3. Sauteed Mushrooms: Earthy sautéed mushrooms lend a savory umami taste to the turkey burger.
4. Sliced Tomatoes: Ripe and juicy tomato slices provide a fresh and tangy burst of flavor.
5. Lettuce or Spinach: Crisp lettuce or tender spinach leaves add a refreshing and healthy touch.
6. Pickles: Tangy dill pickles offer a nice contrast to the savory turkey burger.
7. Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a smoky and salty flavor to the burger.
8. Cheese: Melted cheese is a classic topping; options like cheddar, Swiss, pepper jack, or feta all work well with turkey burgers.
9. Fried Egg: A fried egg with a runny yolk can create a luscious, indulgent experience.
10. Guacamole: Creamy and flavorful guacamole brings a Southwestern twist to the turkey burger.
11. Salsa: Fresh salsa, whether mild or spicy, adds a burst of color and zesty taste.
12. Jalapeños: Sliced or pickled jalapeños provide a fiery kick for those who love a bit of heat.
13. Barbecue Sauce: Sweet and tangy barbecue sauce complements the turkey's flavor and adds a touch of smokiness.
14. Hummus: A dollop of hummus can be a unique and tasty alternative to traditional condiments.
15. Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw gives the burger a delightful crunch and cools down spicy flavors.
16. Pesto Sauce: Basil pesto adds a fresh and herbaceous flavor to the turkey burger.
17. Grilled Pineapple: Sweet and smoky grilled pineapple pairs well with the savory turkey patty.
18. Crispy Onion Rings: Crunchy onion rings add texture and flavor to the burger.
19. Chipotle Mayo: Spicy chipotle mayo brings a smoky, creamy, and spicy kick to the turkey burger.
20. Cucumber Slices: Refreshing cucumber slices provide a light and crisp addition to the burger.

Tips to Prevent Sticking

To prevent turkey burgers from sticking and falling apart while cooking, follow these helpful tips:

1. Use non-stick cooking spray or oil: Before placing the turkey burgers on the grill or in the pan, lightly coat the cooking surface with non-stick cooking spray or oil. This will create a barrier and reduce the chances of sticking. Turn grill off before spraying grates on outdoor grill.
2. Oil the burgers: Gently brush a little oil on both sides of the turkey burgers before cooking. This will further aid in preventing sticking and help maintain moisture.
3. Chill the patties: After forming the turkey burger patties, refrigerate them for about 30 minutes before cooking. Chilling helps the patties firm up and hold their shape better during cooking.
4. Avoid overhandling the mixture: When mixing and shaping the turkey burger patties, try to handle the mixture as little as possible. Overworking the meat can lead to a dense texture and make the burgers more prone to falling apart.
5. Don't disturb too early: When cooking the turkey burgers, give them time to develop a crust on the bottom before attempting to flip. If you try to flip too early, they may stick and break apart. A good indication that they are ready to flip is when they release easily from the cooking surface.
6. Use a spatula: When it's time to flip the burgers, use a flat, wide spatula to support the entire patty's surface area, reducing the risk of it breaking apart.
7. Cook over medium heat: Cooking the turkey burgers over medium heat will allow them to cook evenly without burning the outside before the inside is done. This gentler heat helps maintain the integrity of the burgers.
8. Don't press down on the burgers: While cooking, avoid the temptation to press down on the turkey burgers with a spatula. This can cause the juices to escape and make the burgers dry and more likely to fall apart.

Side Dish Ideas

There are plenty of delicious side dish options to complement ground turkey burgers. Here are some ideas:

1. Sweet Potato Fries: Baked or air-fried sweet potato fries make a flavorful and healthier alternative to regular fries.
2. Coleslaw: A refreshing and crunchy coleslaw with a tangy dressing is a great accompaniment to turkey burgers.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Season and grill an assortment of colorful vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms for a nutritious and tasty side.
4. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob with a brush of butter and sprinkle of seasoning is a classic side dish that pairs well with burgers.
5. Salad: Opt for a refreshing green salad or a grain-based salad with ingredients like quinoa, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette dressing.
6. Baked Beans: Classic baked beans provide a hearty and savory side to complement the turkey burgers.
7. Guacamole and Tortilla Chips: Serve some homemade guacamole with crispy tortilla chips for a delightful and creamy side.
8. Grilled Pineapple: Grilling pineapple slices enhances their sweetness, adding a tropical twist to your turkey burger meal.
9. Avocado Salad: Create a simple avocado salad with diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and a drizzle of lime juice.
10. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Roast Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic, and a touch of parmesan for a flavorful and nutritious side dish.
11. Tomato and Mozzarella Salad: Layer slices of ripe tomatoes and fresh mozzarella, then drizzle with balsamic glaze and sprinkle with basil leaves.
12. Potato Salad: Classic potato salad, either creamy or vinaigrette-based, is always a hit with burgers.

Storage and Make Ahead

Storage and make-ahead options for turkey burgers can be convenient for busy schedules or meal planning. Here's what you can do:

Refrigeration for Short-term Storage: If you plan to cook the turkey burgers within 1-2 days, you can store the raw patties in the refrigerator. Wrap each patty individually in plastic wrap or parchment paper to prevent sticking. Place them in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag and refrigerate.

Freezing for Longer Storage: If you want to make turkey burgers ahead for longer storage, freezing is a great option. To freeze raw turkey burger patties, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 1-2 hours or until the patties are partially frozen. This prevents them from sticking together when stored. Once partially frozen, transfer the patties to a resealable freezer bag or container. Place parchment paper between each patty to prevent sticking. Seal the bag or container, removing as much air as possible, and label it with the date. Frozen turkey burgers can generally be stored for 2-3 months.

Make-Ahead Cooking: You can also cook the turkey burgers in advance and store them for later. After cooking, let the burgers cool to room temperature. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container or wrap them individually in foil or plastic wrap. Refrigerate for up to 2-3 days or freeze for longer storage.

📖 Recipe