Turkey Burgers

I love this recipe because it transforms turkey burgers from bland to delicious with minimal effort. The grated onion adds moisture and a subtle sweetness, while the condiments blend right into the meat for even flavor. They cook quickly, making them a go-to option when I want a lighter burger without sacrificing satisfaction.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground turkey

• Ketchup (or mayonnaise, depending on flavor preference)

• Grated onion

• Mustard (if using mayonnaise)

• Salt and pepper

• Burger buns

• Toppings of choice (lettuce, tomato, cheese, pickles, etc.)

Directions

1. I place the ground turkey in a large mixing bowl.

2. I add ketchup and grated onion, or mayonnaise and mustard, depending on the flavor I’m going for.

3. I season with salt and pepper, mixing gently until just combined.

4. I form the mixture into equal-sized patties.

5. I heat a grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat and cook the patties for about 4–5 minutes per side, until cooked through and no longer pink in the center.

6. I serve the patties on toasted buns with my favorite toppings.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people. The total time is about 30 minutes—10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking.

Variations

Sometimes I mix in fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for brightness, or add a dash of hot sauce for heat. For a Mediterranean twist, I stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and feta cheese. If I want a smoky flavor, I add a little smoked paprika to the mix.

Storage/Reheating

I store cooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm them gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave for 1–2 minutes. Uncooked patties can be wrapped and frozen for up to 2 months; I thaw them in the refrigerator before cooking.

FAQs

How do I keep turkey burgers from drying out?

I add condiments like ketchup or mayonnaise to the mix and avoid overcooking them.

Can I grill turkey burgers?

Yes, I grill them over medium-high heat, oiling the grates to prevent sticking.

Can I use ground chicken instead?

Yes, ground chicken works well and can be substituted in equal amounts.

What fat content is best for ground turkey burgers?

I prefer ground turkey with at least 7% fat to keep them moist.

How do I know when turkey burgers are fully cooked?

I use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Conclusion

I find these turkey burgers to be the perfect balance of lightness and flavor. The simple addition of condiments and grated onion makes all the difference, resulting in a juicy, satisfying burger I can enjoy any night of the week. Whether grilled, pan-seared, or cooked indoors, they’re a healthy, delicious alternative to beef burgers.

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