These spicy turkey burgers are a tasty twist on the classic! Packed with ground turkey and flavorful spices, they’re juicy and perfect for grilling. Your taste buds are in for a treat!
I love how they bring a little heat without being too overwhelming. Pair them with your favorite toppings, and you’ve got a meal everyone will enjoy. Who says burgers can’t have a kick? 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This is the star of your turkey burger! If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground chicken also works great. Alternatively, you can use ground beef, but keep in mind the flavor and texture will change.
Breadcrumbs: I suggest using whole wheat breadcrumbs for added nutrition. If you want a gluten-free option, try using crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour as a substitute.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a nice salty flavor. If you want a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can give a similar taste. Grated mozzarella can also add a different texture and mild flavor.
Seasonings: Feel free to experiment! Garlic powder, cayenne, or dried herbs like oregano can enhance the flavor. If you’re not a fan of onion powder, you can simply use fresh minced onion.
Fresh Parsley: This is optional but recommended for a pop of color and freshness. If you don’t have parsley, you can use cilantro or even spinach, finely chopped.
How Do I Make Sure My Turkey Burgers Don’t Fall Apart?
One common concern with turkey burgers is keeping them well-formed and not crumbling while cooking. Here are some helpful tips:
- Mix your ingredients gently. Overmixing can lead to tough burgers.
- Chill the patties for about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps them hold their shape better.
- Use medium heat for cooking. Too high heat can burn the outside while leaving the inside raw.
- Don’t press down on the patties while cooking, as this releases the juices and can cause them to dry out.
How to Make Delicious Turkey Burgers?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Turkey Patties:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat)
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
For Assembling the Burgers:
- 4 sesame seed burger buns
- Lettuce leaves, for topping
- Sliced pickles, for topping
- Sliced red onion, for topping
- Ketchup or mustard, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This turkey burger recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook. So, in about 30 minutes, you’ll have tasty homemade turkey burgers ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Turkey Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, and the optional chopped parsley. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until it’s just combined. Be gentle—don’t overmix, or your patties might be tough!
2. Shape the Patties:
Next, divide the turkey mixture into four equal pieces. Take each piece and shape it into a patty about 3/4 inch thick. Make sure they are even in size for consistent cooking.
3. Heat the Grill or Skillet:
Now, preheat a grill or a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Lightly grease the cooking surface with cooking spray or a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
4. Cook the Patties:
Place the turkey patties on the grill or skillet and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side. You want them golden brown on the outside, and they need to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be fully cooked. You can use a meat thermometer to check!
5. Toast the Buns:
While the burgers are cooking, you can get the sesame seed buns ready. Lightly toast them on the grill or in a toaster until they are warm and crispy.
6. Assemble the Burgers:
Once the patties are cooked and the buns are toasted, it’s assembly time! Place each turkey patty on the bottom half of a sesame bun. Top with fresh lettuce leaves, sliced pickles, red onion, and any other condiments you like. Ketchup or mustard can be great additions!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, place the top half of the bun on your assembled burger, serve immediately, and enjoy your homemade turkey burgers! They’re juicy, flavorful, and perfect for any meal!
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken can be a great substitute for ground turkey in this recipe. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as ground chicken might cook a bit differently, but aim for that same internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What If I Don’t Have Breadcrumbs?
No problem! You can use crushed crackers, oatmeal, or even cooked quinoa as a substitute for breadcrumbs. Just ensure any substitute you choose has a similar texture to help bind the mixture. Start with the same amount, then adjust if the mixture feels too wet or dry.
How to Store Leftover Turkey Burgers?
Store any leftover turkey burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, or pop them in the microwave for quick reheating. You might want to add a splash of water to keep them moist!
Can I Freeze Turkey Burgers?
Yes! Form the patties and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight or cook straight from frozen, just increase the cooking time slightly.
