Ground Turkey Burgers

Every time I whip up a batch of Ground Turkey Burgers, I’m filled with nostalgia. It takes me back to sunny summer barbecues, where the air is fragrant with grilled goodness and laughter. Friends and family gather around, ready to savor something special from the grill. These burgers aren’t just any burgers; they’re a healthier twist on a classic, packed with flavor and juiciness. I remember the first time I made them, and my friends couldn’t believe they were made with turkey instead of beef. It’s moments like these, sharing delicious food with those I care about, that make cooking such a joy. That’s why I love sharing my Ground Turkey Burgers recipe with you today; it’s a simple way to bring people together and create lasting memories.

Ingredients for Ground Turkey Burgers

When it comes to the Ground Turkey Burgers, the ingredients are intentionally selected to create a balance of flavor and texture. Each component plays a vital role. The lean ground turkey serves as the main event, while bread crumbs add body, and eggs help bind everything together. Fresh herbs bring a burst of flavor, and a touch of goat cheese adds creaminess and tang. Together, they create a harmonious blend that makes each burger irresistible.

• 1½ pounds lean ground turkey – The star of the show! Lean and packed with protein, it’s a healthier alternative to beef, offering a light yet satisfying flavor.
• ⅓ cup bread crumbs – These provide great texture and help bind the ingredients together. Opt for panko for an extra crunch!
• 2 tablespoons well-whisked egg – Acts as a binder, ensuring the burgers hold their shape while cooking.
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice – This adds brightness and enhances the flavors of the turkey.
• 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest – A lovely aromatic addition that complements the lemon juice.
• 1 teaspoon minced fresh rosemary – Adds a fragrant, earthy note that pairs beautifully with turkey.
• 1 teaspoon minced fresh thyme – Another herb that enriches the flavor profile; it gives the burgers a homemade taste.
• 1 teaspoon Morton kosher salt, plus more – Essential for seasoning to enhance all the flavors.
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper, plus more – Adds a hint of heat and depth to the taste.
• 2 ounces goat cheese – This creamy cheese melts beautifully inside the burgers, adding a rich flavor.
• 4 soft hamburger buns – Perfect for holding all those delicious ingredients together.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Used for brushing the buns before grilling; it helps achieve a golden-brown crust.
• 4 butter lettuce leaves – A fresh and crisp layer that adds texture and complements the rich burgers.
• ½ cup sundried tomato spread – A flavorful condiment that adds a sweet and tangy punch.

Recipe Steps for Ground Turkey Burgers

Cooking Ground Turkey Burgers is an enjoyable experience that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. Follow these simple steps to create your delicious patties, and before you know it, you’ll have a satisfying meal on your table.

1. In a medium bowl, combine the ground turkey, bread crumbs, whisked egg, lemon juice, lemon zest, rosemary, thyme, salt, and black pepper. The mixture should be well combined to ensure even distribution of flavors. I prefer to use my hands for this, as it tends to mix everything quickly and effectively.
2. Once mixed thoroughly, divide the turkey mixture into six equal portions. Then, take each portion and further divide it in half, forming twelve smaller portions. Shape these into 4-inch patties, setting them on a large rimmed pan lined with wax paper. This step is essential for keeping the burgers from sticking.
3. Now, it’s time to add the goat cheese. Take six of the patties and place a thin slice of cheese in the center of each. If you’re using a goat cheese log, slice it into thin rounds, ensuring each patty gets about a ½ tablespoon of cheese.
4. Next, take the remaining six patties and place them on top of the cheese-filled ones. Pinch the edges together tightly to seal the cheese within the burger. This helps to keep the cheese from oozing out while cooking. Sprinkle a little extra salt and black pepper on top of the finished patties.
5. Cover the patties and refrigerate them for 30 minutes. This chilling time is crucial because it helps the burgers firm up, making them easier to handle on the grill.
6. While the patties chill, lightly brush the cut sides of the hamburger buns with olive oil. This will give them a lovely golden color and a nice crunch when grilled.
7. Preheat your grill to a medium to medium-high heat, and make sure to clean and oil the grates well. Place the prepared buns cut-side down on the grates, grilling them until lightly toasted with defined grill marks. Keep a close watch, as this step can go quickly!
8. After removing the buns, give the grill grates another good cleaning before oiling them again. Now, take the chilled turkey burgers straight from the fridge and place them on the hot oiled grill grates. Cook them for about five minutes without moving them to allow the bottoms to firm up and develop char marks.
9. Using a thin metal spatula, carefully flip the burgers over and cook for an additional five to seven minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. This step is crucial to ensure safety and proper cooking.
10. To serve, start by placing a butter lettuce leaf on the bottom half of each grilled bun, followed by the turkey burger. Spread some sundried tomato spread on top, then add the top half of the bun. Enjoy your delicious creation while it’s hot!

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

There are many ways to customize your Ground Turkey Burgers to fit your preferences and dietary needs. Here are some creative tips to get you started:

• Spice it Up: Feel free to add your favorite spices like cumin or smoked paprika to the turkey mixture for an extra kick.
• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the turkey with a mixture of black beans, quinoa, and oats for a delicious vegetarian burger.
• Different Buns: Experiment with various types of buns such as whole grain, brioche, or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
• Top it Off: Get creative with toppings! Try avocado slices, fresh salsa, or your favorite cheese instead of goat cheese.
• Freezing for Later: You can freeze the uncooked patties for later use. Just separate them with wax paper to prevent sticking.
• Serving Variations: Serve the burgers with sweet potato fries, a fresh salad, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Accompaniments for Ground Turkey Burgers

Pairing your Ground Turkey Burgers with the right sides can elevate your meal to a whole new level. Here are some ideas to consider:

• Classic Side Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the burgers.
• French Fries: Enjoy traditional French fries or try sweet potato fries for a healthier twist.
• Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and corn on the cob can be grilled alongside your burgers for a fresh touch.
• Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad offers a comforting side that pairs well with grilled meats.
• Coleslaw: The crunch and tang of coleslaw provide a refreshing contrast to the warm, juicy burger.
• Perfect for Casual Gatherings: Whether it’s a summer BBQ or a casual dinner, these burgers are great for any occasion. They also make excellent leftovers for lunch the next day.
• Seasonal Pairings: In summer, pair with refreshing sides like watermelon salad, while fall might call for roasted root vegetables.

FAQ

Conclusion

What makes these Ground Turkey Burgers so special is their mouthwatering flavor combined with a healthy twist. They’re perfect for summer cookouts and quick weeknight dinners alike. I encourage you to give them a try; you won’t be disappointed! They’re simple to make and delicious, making them a fantastic addition to your recipe collection.

Ground Turkey Burgers

Craving a healthier twist on your favorite summer BBQ classic? The Ground Turkey Burgers are juicy, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Packed with fresh herbs and creamy goat cheese, these burgers are the ultimate easy weeknight dinner. Perfect for grilling, they’ll be a hit at your next gathering!

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Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 12 minutes mins

Total Time 37 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 360

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1.5 pounds lean ground turkey
• ⅓ cup bread crumbs
• 2 tablespoons well-whisked egg
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon minced fresh rosemary
• 1 teaspoon minced fresh thyme
• 1 teaspoon Morton kosher salt plus more for sprinkling over the burgers
• 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper plus more for sprinkling over the burgers
• 2 ounces goat cheese I like to use half of a 4-ounce goat cheese log, then slice it into 6 thin rounds, about 1/2-tablespoon per round.
• 4 soft hamburger buns
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 leaves butter lettuce
• 0.5 cup sundried tomato spread

Equipment

• Skillet
• Grater
• Mixing Bowl
• Chef's Knife
• Frying Pan
• Whisk

Method

 

1. In a medium bowl, combine the ground turkey, bread crumbs, whisked egg, lemon juice, lemon zest, rosemary, thyme, salt, and black pepper. The mixture should be well combined to ensure even distribution of flavors. I prefer to use my hands for this, as it tends to mix everything quickly and effectively.
2. Once mixed thoroughly, divide the turkey mixture into six equal portions. Then, take each portion and further divide it in half, forming twelve smaller portions. Shape these into 4-inch patties, setting them on a large rimmed pan lined with wax paper. This step is essential for keeping the burgers from sticking.
3. Now, it’s time to add the goat cheese. Take six of the patties and place a thin slice of cheese in the center of each. If you’re using a goat cheese log, slice it into thin rounds, ensuring each patty gets about a ½ tablespoon of cheese.
4. Next, take the remaining six patties and place them on top of the cheese-filled ones. Pinch the edges together tightly to seal the cheese within the burger. This helps to keep the cheese from oozing out while cooking. Sprinkle a little extra salt and black pepper on top of the finished patties.
5. Cover the patties and refrigerate them for 30 minutes. This chilling time is crucial because it helps the burgers firm up, making them easier to handle on the grill.
6. While the patties chill, lightly brush the cut sides of the hamburger buns with olive oil. This will give them a lovely golden color and a nice crunch when grilled.
7. Preheat your grill to a medium to medium-high heat, and make sure to clean and oil the grates well. Place the prepared buns cut-side down on the grates, grilling them until lightly toasted with defined grill marks. Keep a close watch, as this step can go quickly!
8. After removing the buns, give the grill grates another good cleaning before oiling them again. Now, take the chilled turkey burgers straight from the fridge and place them on the hot oiled grill grates. Cook them for about five minutes without moving them to allow the bottoms to firm up and develop char marks.
9. Using a thin metal spatula, carefully flip the burgers over and cook for an additional five to seven minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. This step is crucial to ensure safety and proper cooking.
10. To serve, start by placing a butter lettuce leaf on the bottom half of each grilled bun, followed by the turkey burger. Spread some sundried tomato spread on top, then add the top half of the bun. Enjoy your delicious creation while it’s hot!

Notes

Chilling the Patties: Always chill the patties before grilling. This helps them hold shape and prevents them from falling apart on the grill.

Grill Temperature: Ensure your grill is preheated properly. A medium to medium-high heat ensures even cooking without burning.

Checking Doneness: Invest in a meat thermometer to check internal temperatures. Turkey should reach 165°F for safe consumption.

Oiling the Grate: Oiling the grill grates helps prevent sticking and ensures even grilling. Use a paper towel soaked in oil for this.

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Meet Fiona Lewis

I love cooking with the seasons and keeping things rustic and real. I believe the best meals are the ones shared with friends and family. I had so much fun creating this recipe, and I can't wait to hear what you think of it!