Turkey Burgers

Grilled Turkey Burgers are a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional beef burgers, offering the same juicy bite with a lighter twist. Made with lean ground turkey and simple seasonings, these burgers are grilled to perfection and can be customized with your favorite toppings. Perfect for backyard BBQs, family dinners, or meal prep, they’re flavorful, moist, and easy to make.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Leaner and lower in fat than beef burgers
• Quick and easy to prepare
• Packed with protein and flavor
• Perfect for summer grilling or indoor grill pans
• Customizable with a variety of toppings and buns
• Great for meal prep and freezer-friendly
• Kid-approved and family-friendly
• Can be made dairy-free and gluten-free
• Juicy and never dry when cooked properly
• Ideal for BBQs, picnics, or a healthy weeknight meal

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground turkey (preferably 93% lean)
• Breadcrumbs (or almond flour for gluten-free option)
• Egg
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Worcestershire sauce
• Dijon mustard
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Olive oil (for brushing the grill)

Optional for serving:

• Burger buns
• Lettuce, tomato, onion
• Cheese slices
• Pickles, ketchup, mustard, mayo

directions

1. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix gently until just combined—do not overmix to avoid tough burgers.
3. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and form into patties, about ¾ inch thick.
4. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375–400°F).
5. Brush grill grates with olive oil to prevent sticking.
6. Place patties on the grill and cook for about 5–6 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
7. Optional: Add cheese slices during the last minute of cooking and cover to melt.
8. Remove from grill and let rest for a few minutes.
9. Serve on buns with your favorite toppings and condiments.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 turkey burgers.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
• Herb Flavor: Mix in fresh parsley, thyme, or basil for extra freshness.
• Mediterranean Style: Add crumbled feta and chopped spinach into the patties.
• BBQ Twist: Mix in a spoonful of barbecue sauce and top with caramelized onions.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve in lettuce wraps instead of buns.
• Cheddar-Ranch: Add shredded cheddar and ranch seasoning to the mix.
• Mushroom-Swiss: Serve with grilled mushrooms and Swiss cheese for a savory combo.
• Make Mini: Form into sliders for parties and appetizers.

storage/reheating

• Storage: Store cooked burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, in the oven at 350°F, or microwave until warmed through.
• Freezing: Freeze uncooked patties with parchment between them in a sealed container or freezer bag. Cook from frozen or thaw overnight before grilling.

FAQs

How do I keep turkey burgers from drying out?

Don’t overcook them—grill just until they reach 165°F. Adding breadcrumbs and an egg also helps retain moisture.

Can I cook turkey burgers indoors?

Yes, use a grill pan, cast iron skillet, or even bake them at 375°F for about 25 minutes, flipping halfway.

What kind of ground turkey is best?

93% lean is ideal for juicier burgers; 99% lean may be too dry without added moisture.

Can I make them without breadcrumbs?

Yes, substitute almond flour, oat flour, or crushed crackers if preferred.

How do I know when turkey burgers are done?

Use a meat thermometer. Turkey burgers are fully cooked at 165°F.

Can I prepare these burgers ahead of time?

Yes, form the patties and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before grilling.

What’s a good cheese for turkey burgers?

Cheddar, Swiss, provolone, pepper jack, or mozzarella all melt well and add flavor.

Are turkey burgers healthy?

Yes, they’re a lean source of protein and lower in saturated fat than beef burgers.

Can I make them dairy-free?

Yes, just skip the cheese and ensure any toppings and condiments are dairy-free.

What can I serve with turkey burgers?

Sweet potato fries, coleslaw, salad, corn on the cob, or roasted vegetables all make great sides.

Conclusion

Grilled Turkey Burgers are a healthy, flavorful, and satisfying option for any cookout or dinner table. With juicy, seasoned patties and your choice of toppings, these burgers are sure to become a go-to favorite. Whether you’re grilling outside or indoors, this recipe delivers delicious results with minimal effort—perfect for busy weeknights or summer weekends.

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