These ground turkey burger patties are thick, juicy, tender, and seasoned with fresh garlic, curry powder, rosemary, and diced onion to make the best homemade turkey burgers ever!
Although this recipe calls for cooking the turkey burgers on top of the stove, grilling is also a great option!
Here are some easy, useful cooking and preparation tips and tricks I’ll be sharing, like salting the outside of the burger patty just before placing it on the pan instead of salting the turkey mixture. Ill explain why as we go. Lets get into it.
This really good turkey burger recipe is more about technique than anything else. From here, you can take it and adapt it to suit your personal tastes.
The turkey burger patties are seasoned with curry powder, rosemary, garlic, and onion and are super versatile. Serve them with your preferred turkey burger toppings (or try some of the ideas I’ve listed below).
Turkey burgers are a delicious and healthy alternative to beef burgers but they can sometimes be a bit dry and bland. This guide will show you how to season and cook turkey burgers to perfection so they’re juicy, flavorful, and sure to please everyone at the table.
Choosing the Right Ground Turkey
The first step to making great turkey burgers is choosing the right ground turkey. I recommend using 93% lean ground turkey, as it has the best texture and flavor. You can also use 90% lean ground turkey, but it will be a little bit drier. Avoid using ground turkey that is less than 90% lean, as it will be too dry and crumbly.
Seasoning Your Turkey Burgers
Once you’ve chosen your ground turkey, it’s time to season it There are many different ways to season turkey burgers, but I recommend using a simple blend of salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. You can also add other spices and herbs to your liking, such as cumin, oregano, or thyme.
Here’s a basic recipe for seasoned turkey burgers:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound 93% lean ground turkey
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a medium bowl and mix thoroughly using your hands.
- Divide the mixture into 4-6 evenly sized portions and form each portion into a patty about 1/2 inch thick.
- Lightly coat a grill or skillet with oil or nonstick spray and cook burgers over medium heat for about 5 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through.
- If desired, top with a slice of cheese and leave burger on the grill until cheese is slightly melted.
- Place burger on bun, top with desired condiments and toppings, and serve immediately.
Cooking Your Turkey Burgers
There are many different ways to cook turkey burgers, but I recommend grilling or pan-frying them. Grilling gives them a nice smoky flavor, while pan-frying is a quicker and easier option.
Here are some tips for cooking turkey burgers:
- Don’t overcook them. Turkey burgers are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature. This is the best way to ensure that your burgers are cooked through.
- Let the burgers rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute, making for a more juicy burger.
Toppings and Condiments
The toppings and condiments you choose can make or break your turkey burger. Here are some of my favorites:
- Ketchup
- Mustard
- Mayonnaise
- Barbecue sauce
- Sliced red onions
- Pickled red onions
- Sauteéd yellow onions
- Crispy French fried onions
- Sliced pickles
- Sliced tomatoes
- Iceberg lettuce
Turkey burgers are a delicious and healthy alternative to beef burgers. By following the tips in this guide, you can make juicy, flavorful turkey burgers that everyone will love. So fire up the grill or heat up the pan, and get ready to enjoy some delicious turkey burgers!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to season turkey burgers?
The best way to season turkey burgers is to use a simple blend of salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. You can also add other spices and herbs to your liking.
How do I know when my turkey burgers are done?
Turkey burgers are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.
What are some good toppings for turkey burgers?
Some good toppings for turkey burgers include ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, barbecue sauce, sliced red onions, pickled red onions, sauteéd yellow onions, crispy French fried onions, sliced pickles, sliced tomatoes, and iceberg lettuce.
Can I make turkey burgers ahead of time?
Yes, you can make turkey burgers ahead of time. Simply form the patties and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook them, grill or pan-fry them as usual.
Additional Resources
How Long to Cook a Turkey Burger
Turkey burgers take about 5 minutes per side to cook on the stovetop. Depending on how hot your pan is, this may take a little longer. I.
If your pan is overheated, you might need to lower the heat so the burger’s outside doesn’t burn before the middle reaches the desired doneness.
Pre-heat your bare skillet over medium heat in order to cook a turkey burger on the stove (this is especially important if you’re using a stainless steel pan) Next, pour in enough oil to completely cover the pan’s bottom in an even layer.
Place the turkey patty in the pan and turn it over so that the divot and the side with the salt are facing down. Then season the flat side, which is now facing up.
By seasoning turkey burgers in this manner, as opposed to rubbing salt into the meat, you can keep the salt from evaporating the meat before it cooks. By seasoning the outside of the burger youll end up with a much more tender, juicy turkey burger.
As the turkey burger cooks, it expands. The divot will flatten out, giving you a nice flat turkey burger thats evenly thick throughout.
Without the divot, youd end up with a rounded turkey burger patty! No one wants that.
Top the turkey patties with cheese or bacon once they are nicely browned on both sides and cooked through.
In order for the cheese to melt onto the turkey burger patties, you want to add these toppings while they are still in the pan. If youre using bacon, the melting cheese will help hold the bacon in place.
A tablespoon or so of water should be added to the pan, and it should be covered right away to hasten the melting of the cheese. Leave it alone for about 30-60 seconds. The steam will melt the cheese faster.
How to Shape Burger Patties That Stay Flat
This simple technique will get you well seasoned turkey burgers that stay flat while cooking. (This tip will work with any kind of meat-based burger btw! Youre welcome!).
Divide the turkey mixture and shape into baseball sized rounds. You can use a kitchen scale to be precise or you can eyeball it.
Flatten each patty into a disc about ¾” thick. Use your thumb to make an indentation on just one side of the burger patty.
Place the shaped burgers aside until ready to cook.
Right before cooking, season the top of the turkey burger patties with salt.
Once the patties are in the pan, season the other side of the burgers to keep them juicy. Season the burgers on the outside first.