You really should try this recipe for turkey burgers because they’re so delicious, beautifully seasoned, and they won’t crumble at all!
I love a good burger and this one reigns supreme. You can grill it, cook it on the stove, or even bake the patties in the oven. The result is the juiciest turkey burger that you have ever sunk your teeth into.
These turkey burgers are a summertime favorite, but we also make them inside during other seasons. Even though it’s not summer, there’s something about a tasty burger, fries, and a light pasta salad that makes it feel that way!
Are you ready to grill up some juicy, flavorful turkey burgers that won’t crumble into a sad mess on your plate? If so, you’ve come to the right place! Turkey burgers can be a delicious and healthy alternative to beef burgers, but they have a reputation for being a bit more fragile. Fear not, burger enthusiasts! With a few simple tips and tricks, you can easily master the art of making perfect, stay-together turkey burgers that will have everyone asking for seconds.
The Secret Weapon: Binders
Just like in a traditional meatloaf, you need something to hold the meat together. Try adding some dry breadcrumbs to the turkey mixture before you shape the patties. The crumbs will absorb the moisture and, together with the egg, will act like glue and help your burgers maintain their shape on the grill.
Other Binding Options:
- Oats: If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, finely ground oats work just as well as breadcrumbs.
- Flaxseed meal: This vegan-friendly option adds a subtle nutty flavor and helps bind the burgers together.
- Mashed potatoes: Yes, you read that right! Adding a small amount of mashed potatoes to the mix can create a surprisingly fluffy and flavorful burger.
The Importance of Temperature:
Cold turkey is easier to handle and less likely to fall apart. Make sure your ground turkey is chilled before mixing it with the other ingredients. If you have time, refrigerate the shaped patties for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This will help them hold their shape on the grill.
The Right Cooking Technique:
- Preheat your grill or pan to medium-high heat. This will ensure the burgers cook evenly and don’t stick to the cooking surface.
- Use a gentle touch when flipping the burgers. Avoid pressing down on them with a spatula, as this can squeeze out the juices and make them dry and crumbly.
- Cook the burgers until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. This is the safe internal temperature for cooked ground turkey.
Additional Tips for Success:
- Don’t overmix the ingredients. Overmixing can make the burgers tough and dense.
- Use a light hand when shaping the patties. The patties should be loosely formed, not tightly packed.
- Let the burgers rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more juicy and flavorful burger.
Bonus Tip: For an extra layer of flavor and moisture, try adding some finely chopped vegetables to the mix, such as onions, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
Now that you’re armed with these insider tips, get ready to grill up some amazing turkey burgers that will impress your friends and family. Happy grilling!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use ground turkey breast instead of ground turkey?
While ground turkey breast is a leaner option, it can be a bit drier. If you choose to use it, make sure to add some extra moisture to the mix, such as grated vegetables or a splash of milk.
- What are some good toppings for turkey burgers?
The possibilities are endless! Some popular options include lettuce, tomato, onion, avocado, cheese, mustard, ketchup, and mayonnaise.
- Can I make turkey burgers ahead of time?
Yes, you can shape the patties and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.
- Can I freeze turkey burgers?
Absolutely! Freeze the shaped patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Additional Resources:
- Best Turkey Burger Recipe: https://www.blessthismessplease.com/turkey-burgers/
- How To Keep Turkey Burgers From Falling Apart: https://eatpallet.com/how-to-keep-turkey-burgers-from-falling-apart/
Now go forth and conquer the world of turkey burgers!
How to Make Turkey Burgers
Step #1. Add all of your patty ingredients to a bowl and gently stir to combine.
Step #3. Shape the chilled burger mixture into patties.
Step #2. Divide the mixture into your serving sizes and refrigerate.
Step #4. Cook over a grill or in a skillet on the stovetop until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Serve hot with your favorite burger toppings.
In order to prevent turkey burgers from falling apart you need to add something to hold everything together. This is called a meat binder. As with meatloaf, the egg and breadcrumbs serve as the meat binder in this instance, helping the turkey burger maintain its structure and form.
There are so many options for side dishes when you are serving turkey burgers. You could serve French fries, coleslaw, potato salad, pasta salad, watermelon, potato chips-you can’t go wrong!.
Refrigerating turkey patties will help them stay intact on the grill/stove. If you have time, place the patties on a tray and refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes and a maximum of two hours.
I bet you cooked them for too long. When grilling or cooking turkey patties, you want to be aware of the internal temperature. I like to use an instant-read thermometer because it takes out the guess work. You want the center part of the turkey patty to be 165° F.
- Ensure that the ground turkey you use has both dark and light meat. Because ground turkey breast is leaner, the burger will be drier.
- Be careful not to overmix your ingredients. Work them only until they come together to prevent a tough burger from arising.
- To prevent your turkey from getting sticky, keep it chilled until you’re ready to combine the ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- For individuals who need to limit their fat intake, turkey burgers are a fantastic choice!
- Ground turkey burgers are a great way to enjoy a favorite meal on a tighter budget because it’s frequently less expensive than ground beef.
- It calls for simple ingredients and has minimal prep time.
- Ground turkey: the star of the show!
- Seasonings: Montreal Steak Seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and salt
- Finely chopped onion
- Bread crumbs
- Egg
- Serving suggestions for burger toppings: Top these with lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, ketchup, and any other toppings you’d like on your favorite burger. I personally love them with pickles.
See the recipe card below for full information on ingredients and quantities
