These juicy grilled turkey burgers are a tasty and healthier twist on the classic favorite! Made with lean turkey, fresh herbs, and spices, they’re packed with flavor.
I love grilling these on sunny days, just the smell makes everyone hungry! Pair them with your favorite toppings, and you’ve got a delightful meal ready in no time.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: The star of this dish! Use lean ground turkey for a healthier option. If you prefer a richer flavor, ground chicken or even beef would work well too. Personally, I find the turkey to be a great choice for lighter burgers.
Breadcrumbs: These help bind the burgers and keep them juicy. You can swap them for crushed saltine crackers, oats, or even gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version. I’ve tried using crushed cornflakes, and they add a nice crunch!
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a delicious flavor. You can use Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste or skip it entirely if you want a dairy-free option. Nutritional yeast can be a nice alternative for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Worcestershire Sauce: This ingredient enhances the umami flavor of the turkey. If you need a substitute, try soy sauce or a mixture of vinegar and soy sauce for a similar taste.
Spices: The smoked paprika and oregano are important for flavor. If you’re out of smoked paprika, regular paprika works too, or you could try chili powder for a bit of heat. Oregano can be replaced with Italian seasoning for more complexity.
How Can You Avoid Dry Turkey Burgers?
The key to juicy turkey burgers is not overmixing the meat. Combine the ingredients gently until just mixed. Overworking can lead to tough burgers. Here’s how you can ensure moisture:
- Mix the ingredients in a large bowl until just combined. You want to see some texture.
- Form the patties gently without pressing them too tight.
- Don’t skip resting the patties before grilling. This helps them hold onto their juices.
Lastly, monitoring the cooking time is crucial! Cook just until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for perfectly juicy burgers. Enjoy!
How to Make Juicy Grilled Turkey Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
For Serving:
- 4 hamburger buns
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese (optional)
- Lettuce leaves
- Sliced tomatoes
- Sliced red onions
- Ketchup and mayonnaise (for serving)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 12-14 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at about 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Turkey Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped onions, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, dried oregano, and optional cayenne pepper. Mix everything together gently until it’s just combined. Remember not to overwork the meat, as this can make the burgers tough!
2. Shape the Patties:
Divide the turkey mixture into 4 equal portions. Shape each portion into a patty that’s about 3/4 inch thick. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb to help them cook evenly.
3. Preheat the Grill:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. To keep the patties from sticking, lightly oil the grill grates using a paper towel dipped in oil or a non-stick spray.
4. Grill the Patties:
Place the turkey patties on the grill and cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side. You want the internal temperature to reach 165°F (74°C). If you’re adding Swiss cheese, place a slice on each patty during the last minute of grilling so that it melts nicely!
5. Rest the Patties:
Once done, remove the patties from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps them stay juicy!
6. Toast the Buns:
While the patties are resting, grill the hamburger buns for about 1-2 minutes until they’re golden brown. Just keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
7. Assemble Your Burgers:
To put it all together, start with a lettuce leaf on the bottom bun. Add the turkey patty next, then pile on the sliced tomatoes, sliced red onions, and your favorite condiments like ketchup and mayonnaise. Finally, top it off with the other half of the bun.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Your juicy grilled turkey burgers are ready to be devoured! Serve immediately and enjoy a delicious homemade meal!
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great substitute and will yield similar results in terms of flavor and texture. Just make sure to check the cooking time, as it may be slightly shorter. Always ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.
What Can I Use Instead of Breadcrumbs?
You can use crushed crackers, oatmeal, or even ground almonds as a substitute for breadcrumbs. If you’re looking to make this recipe gluten-free, try using gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats!
How Should I Store Leftover Burgers?
Store leftover turkey burger patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave for a quick option or on a skillet over low heat for a few minutes until heated through.
Can I Freeze The Patties?
Yes, you can freeze the patties! Shape them and place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer bag. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before grilling for best results.
