Turkey burgers are the perfect alternative to traditional beef burgers when you want something leaner, but still full of flavor. This easy turkey burger recipe is simple, juicy, and ready in no time. Whether you’re looking to eat a bit lighter or you just want a delicious change from beef, these turkey burgers are sure to hit the spot!
Let me show you how to make them with a few basic ingredients and some easy steps, ensuring you get that perfect balance of juicy, flavorful burgers every time.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Turkey Burgers Recipe
- Healthy and lean: Ground turkey is lower in fat than beef, making these burgers a great option for a lighter meal.
- Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for weeknight dinners or lunch.
- Customizable: Add your favorite seasonings, herbs, or mix-ins to make the burgers your own.
- Family-friendly: These burgers are perfect for picky eaters, and they can be enjoyed by everyone, even those who aren’t on a specific diet.
Turkey burgers don’t have to be dry or bland; with the right ingredients and cooking tips, you’ll get the perfect burger every time!
Ingredients for Easy Turkey Burgers
Here’s everything you need to make these juicy turkey burgers:
- 1 lb ground turkey (I prefer using 93% lean turkey for a good balance of flavor and moisture)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional for added texture, or use oats for a gluten-free option)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (for extra flavor)
- 1 egg (to help bind everything together)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
You can always adjust the seasonings or add extras like grated cheese, fresh herbs, or even a little mustard or hot sauce for some extra kick!
How To Make Easy Turkey Burgers
Making turkey burgers is super simple. Follow these steps, and you’ll have perfect burgers in no time.
Step 1: Mix the ingredients.
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and egg. Use your hands or a spoon to gently mix everything together. Be careful not to overwork the meat, as this can make the burgers tough.
Step 2: Shape the patties.
Divide the turkey mixture into 4 equal portions (or more if you want smaller burgers). Gently shape each portion into a patty, about 3/4-inch thick. If you’re worried about the burgers shrinking too much while cooking, make a small indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb—it helps them cook evenly.
Step 3: Cook the burgers.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the turkey patties and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer. Be careful not to overcook them, as turkey can dry out quickly.
If you prefer to grill the burgers, preheat the grill to medium-high heat and cook the patties for about 5-6 minutes on each side, depending on their thickness.
Step 4: Serve the burgers.
Once the turkey burgers are cooked through, place them on toasted burger buns and top with your favorite toppings. Lettuce, tomato, cheese, avocado, pickles—there are so many ways to enjoy them!
Pro Tips for Perfect Turkey Burgers
- Don’t overmix: When combining the turkey and seasonings, mix just enough to incorporate everything—overmixing can result in tough burgers.
- Add moisture: If your turkey burgers are too dry, try adding a little extra olive oil or a spoonful of Greek yogurt to the mix for added moisture.
- Use a thermometer: To make sure the burgers are perfectly cooked and safe to eat, use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F.
- Chill before cooking: If you have time, chill the patties in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before cooking. This helps them hold together better.
How To Serve Easy Turkey Burgers
Turkey burgers are super versatile! Here are some ideas for what to serve alongside them:
- Classic burger toppings: Lettuce, tomato, onion, and your favorite condiments like ketchup, mustard, or mayo.
- Cheese: Melt a slice of cheese on top during the last minute of cooking—cheddar, Swiss, or even provolone all work wonderfully.
- Sweet potato fries: Baked sweet potato fries are the perfect complement to turkey burgers.
- Coleslaw or salad: A light and crunchy coleslaw or a fresh garden salad pairs beautifully with the savory turkey burger.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Here’s an estimate for one turkey burger (based on 4 servings):
- Calories: ~250
- Protein: ~24g
- Carbs: ~15g
- Fat: ~12g
These burgers are lean but packed with protein, making them a filling and nutritious meal. You can even make them lower in calories by skipping the bun or opting for a lettuce wrap instead!
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Storage: Leftover turkey burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the burgers in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side, or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
- Freezing: You can also freeze uncooked turkey patties for up to 3 months. Simply freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a zip-top bag. When ready to cook, just grill or pan-fry straight from the freezer!
Conclusion
These Easy Turkey Burgers are juicy, flavorful, and a healthy alternative to traditional beef burgers. They’re quick to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner, and the best part is that you can customize them to your taste with different toppings or seasonings.
I hope you enjoy making and eating these as much as I do. Let me know how they turn out and what toppings you choose! Happy cooking!
Hi, I’m Emma Collins, a 24-year-old mom of two daughters and a little boy who keeps life full of energy. Cooking is my passion and my way of bringing my family together. Whether I’m experimenting with new recipes or perfecting old favorites, I love making meals that are simple, delicious, and full of love. As a busy mom, I’ve learned how to keep things quick and easy without sacrificing flavor. I’m excited to share my recipes and tips with you, hoping they inspire you to create memorable moments in your own kitchen with your loved ones.
