Simple Turkey Burger Recipe

Simple turkey burger recipe! This quick recipe makes moist turkey burgers in no time. Includes make ahead and freezing instructions.

This simple turkey burger recipe makes a quick and easy dinner. The burgers are perfect – whether you cook them on the stovetop or the grill.

It takes just 10 minutes of prep to make the burgers, and they can easily be customized with your favorite toppings and ingredients. Try these turkey burgers out at your next cookout; they’re a great alternative to beef burgers!

Ingredient notes

• Ground turkey: I use 93% lean ground turkey when I make turkey burgers. I don’t recommend using 99% lean because it tends to dry out.
• Bread crumbs: You have several options when it comes to bread crumbs. I’ve used both panko and regular bread crumbs, and both types work well. If you can’t find seasoned bread crumbs, you can use plain and increase the amount of seasonings in the burger.
• Dijon mustard: I’ve used stone-ground Dijon and regular Dijon mustard. Yellow mustard or spicy brown mustard could also work.
• Spices: Feel free to play around with the spices. You can increase the amounts, or use other seasonings, like onion powder.
• Kosher salt: If using table salt, only use 1/4 teaspoon.

How to make turkey burgers

Step 1: Add ground turkey, seasoned bread crumbs, onion, eggs, mustard, ketchup, garlic powder, paprika, kosher salt, and pepper in a large bowl.

Step 2: Mix to combine.

Step 3: Form the turkey mixture into 8 patties by shaping into a patty and then making a small indentation in the center of each patty.

Top tip >> Making a small indentation in the center of the burger will help prevent it from puffing up in the center as it cooks.

Step 4: If grilling, freeze the patties on a piece of waxed paper for about 15-20 minutes so that they can hold their shape better.

If cooking the burgers on the stove, heat a large nonstick skillet. Add 1-2 tablespoons of oil and swirl to coat or grease with a nonstick cooking spray

Step 5: Cook the patties on the grill or in a skillet until they reach an internal temperature of 165F.

Make-ahead directions

To make the turkey burgers ahead of time, make the recipe through step 2 (forming the patties). Place the patties of a piece of wax paper or parchment paper.

Cover with plastic wrap and place in the refrigerator. Chill for up to 24 hours.

Freezing instructions

To freeze, make the recipe through step 2 (forming the patties). Place the formed turkey burger patties on a piece of wax paper or parchment paper-lined baking sheet.

Freeze until mostly frozen through, about 1 hour. Place the frozen patties in a freezer bag or freezer-safe container. Put a piece of wax paper or parchment paper in between the layers.

Freeze for up to 3 months. Cook from frozen or thaw before use.

Variations

• No bun: Serve the turkey burger in a large lettuce leaf
• Gluten free: You can use gluten free bread crumbs or almond flour in this recipe.
• Spices: You can omit the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper and use your favorite seasoning blend instead.

Topping suggestions

Turkey burgers are a blank canvas! Here are some topping suggestions:

• All-American: Lettuce, tomato, and onion
• Cheese: Cheddar or American cheese slices
• Condiments: BBQ sauce, mayonnaise, mustard, pickle relish
• Southwest turkey burger: Diced avocado or guacamole, pico de gallo, Pepper Jack cheese
• Blues burger: Bacon and bleu cheese
• Heat: Add some chili powder to the seasoning mix and top with hot sauce, jalapeno slices, and Pepper Jack cheese.

Storage

Any leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The turkey burgers will keep for up to 4 days when properly stored in the fridge.

Sides that go well with turkey burgers

If you’ve tried this simple turkey burger recipe, don’t forget to rate the recipe and leave me a comment below. I love to hear from people who’ve made my recipes!

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