These Juicy Grilled Turkey Burgers are tender and full of flavor! Made with ground turkey and simple spices, they’re a healthier twist on a classic favorite.
I love how easy they are to make, and they grill up perfectly. Serve them with your favorite toppings, and watch everyone come back for seconds (or thirds)! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: I recommend using 93% lean ground turkey. It balances flavor with lower fat. If you’re looking for a richer taste, try ground chicken or even lean ground beef. For a plant-based option, use black beans or chickpeas, mashed and seasoned.
Breadcrumbs: These help to bind the turkey mixture and keep the burgers moist. You can substitute with crushed crackers or even oats if you prefer a gluten-free option. I often use panko for a lighter texture that still holds well.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a nice depth of flavor. Feel free to swap it for Pecorino or a dairy-free cheese alternative if you’re avoiding dairy altogether. Don’t skip it though, it really enhances the taste!
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a lovely smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, sweet paprika or chili powder could work as substitutes. The garlic and onion powders can be skipped if fresh garlic and onion are preferred. Just adjust the amounts!
What’s the Best Way to Shape Perfect Burger Patties?
Shaping your patties might seem simple, but there’s a trick to it! Overmixing can make your turkey burgers tough. Mix just until combined and then form the patties. Make them around 1/2 inch thick for even cooking.
- Divide the mixture into four equal parts; it helps to use a kitchen scale for accuracy.
- Dampen your hands with a little water to prevent sticking while shaping.
- Press a small depression in the center of each patty. This helps prevent them from puffing up while grilling.
With these tips, you’re on your way to juicy and flavorful turkey burgers that everyone will love! Enjoy your meal!
How to Make Juicy Grilled Turkey Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Turkey Patties:
- 1 pound ground turkey (preferably 93% lean)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For Serving:
- 4 whole wheat or regular burger buns
- Lettuce leaves (for garnish)
- Slices of tomato (for garnish)
- Slices of red onion (for garnish)
- Slices of cheese (optional, such as Swiss or cheddar)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You will need about 15 minutes for preparation and around 12 minutes for cooking. So, in total, you can have these delicious turkey burgers ready in about 30 minutes! Perfect for a quick and tasty meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Turkey Patty Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to gently mix everything until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the burgers tough.
2. Shape the Patties:
Once mixed, divide the turkey mixture into four equal portions. Shape each portion into a patty about 1/2 inch thick. Make a slight indent in the center of each patty to help them cook evenly.
3. Get the Grill Ready:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. While it’s heating up, lightly oil the grill grates using a paper towel dipped in oil to prevent sticking.
4. Cook the Turkey Patties:
Place the shaped turkey patties on the grill. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes on one side until you see nice grill marks. Then, carefully flip the patties over and grill for an additional 5-6 minutes, or until their internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This ensures they are cooked through and safe to eat.
5. Add Cheese and Toast Buns:
If you want melted cheese on your burgers, place a slice on each patty during the last minute of cooking. At the same time, put the burger buns on the grill to toast lightly for a couple of minutes.
6. Assemble Your Burgers:
Once everything is cooked, it’s time to assemble your burgers! Start with a lettuce leaf on the bottom bun. Then, add the grilled turkey patty, followed by slices of tomato and red onion. Place the top bun on and get ready to enjoy!
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your juicy grilled turkey burgers immediately with your favorite sides or condiments. Dig in and enjoy the delicious flavors!
Can I Use Leaner Ground Turkey?
Yes, you can use leaner ground turkey, but be careful not to overcook it as it may become dry. Consider adding a bit more moisture by mixing in a tablespoon of olive oil or using a combination of ground turkey and ground chicken.
What Can I Use Instead of Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have breadcrumbs, you can substitute with crushed crackers, oats, or even ground nuts for a gluten-free option. Just keep an eye on the moisture level; you may need to adjust the egg to keep the mixture from becoming too dry.
How Should I Store Leftover Turkey Burgers?
Store any leftover turkey burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or grill them briefly to warm them up while maintaining a bit of that grilled flavor!
Can I Freeze the Turkey Burger Patties?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked patties for up to 2 months. Simply layer them with parchment paper in between to prevent sticking. When ready to cook, thaw them overnight in the fridge before grilling.
