This turkey burger recipe has become one of our favorite grilling staples. Don’t get me wrong, I love a good smash burger but weekdays call for a healthier alternative.
These turkey burgers, seasoned with a straightforward spice blend, are incredibly juicy and flavorful, proving that eating healthier does not have to sacrifice flavor. This recipe also goes well with my baked sweet potato fries or baked parmesan truffle fries. Also, check out my ground turkey stuffed peppers recipe!.
The secret to the perfect turkey burger lies in a well-seasoned patty. Since turkey lacks some of the flavor of delicious beef, I always season it with Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and a little Sriracha. Worcestershire sauce honestly is the “secret” ingredient that pulls it all together. Make sure you get 93% lean ground turkey. 99% lean turkey is a little too lean for my taste and lacks flavor.
Looking for more delicious burgers and sliders? Try my Philly cheesesteak sliders or my BBQ pulled pork sliders. My mouthwatering fried spicy chicken sandwich is a must-make if you’re craving something savory and spicy.
When it comes to burger toppings, the possibilities are endless, but here are some of my favorites to get you started!
Turkey burgers are a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional beef burgers, but the real magic happens when you add the toppings. From classic favorites to adventurous combinations, there’s a topping for every taste bud.
Classic Toppings with a Twist
Kitchen Swagger’s recipe for The Very Best Turkey Burger offers a range of classic toppings with a modern twist:
- Sliced avocado or guacamole: The creamy texture and rich flavor of avocado complement the lean turkey perfectly. Guacamole adds a spicy kick and a burst of freshness.
- Crispy bacon: The salty, smoky flavor of bacon adds a delightful contrast to the juicy turkey.
- Sharp cheddar or American cheese: Melted cheese adds a creamy richness and enhances the overall flavor profile of the burger.
- Fried egg: A runny yolk adds a touch of decadence and richness to the burger, while the crispy edges provide a satisfying textural contrast.
- Sliced red onion: The sharp bite of red onion adds a welcome tanginess and cuts through the richness of the other toppings.
- Sliced jalapeño: For those who like it hot, sliced jalapeño adds a fiery kick that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Sliced tomato: Juicy and refreshing, sliced tomato adds a touch of sweetness and acidity to the burger.
- Whole leaf lettuce: Skip the iceberg and opt for whole leaf lettuce, which provides a crisp and refreshing base for the toppings.
- Dill pickles: The tangy and crunchy dill pickles add a classic burger flavor that complements the turkey perfectly.
- Ketchup/mustard/spicy mayo: These classic condiments add a variety of flavors, from sweet and tangy to spicy and creamy.
Additional Topping Ideas
The possibilities for turkey burger toppings are endless. Here are some additional ideas to inspire your culinary creativity:
- Caramelized onions: The sweetness and richness of caramelized onions add a gourmet touch to the burger.
- Roasted red peppers: The smoky sweetness of roasted red peppers adds a unique flavor and a vibrant pop of color.
- Pickled onions: The tangy and crunchy pickled onions add a refreshing bite to the burger.
- Arugula: This peppery green adds a touch of sophistication and a welcome bitterness to the burger.
- Fried mushrooms: The earthy and savory flavor of fried mushrooms is a perfect complement to the turkey.
- Grilled pineapple: For a tropical twist, add grilled pineapple to your burger. The sweetness and acidity pair surprisingly well with the turkey.
- BBQ sauce: For a smoky and tangy flavor, slather your burger with BBQ sauce.
- Sriracha mayo: This spicy mayo adds a fiery kick to your burger.
Tips for Choosing Toppings
When choosing toppings for your turkey burger consider the following factors:
- Flavor profile: Think about the overall flavor profile you want to achieve. Do you want something classic and familiar, or something more adventurous and unique?
- Texture: Consider the textures of the different toppings and how they will complement each other.
- Dietary restrictions: Be mindful of any dietary restrictions your guests may have. Offer a variety of toppings to ensure everyone can enjoy the burger.
- Personal preferences: Ultimately, the best toppings are the ones that you and your guests enjoy the most. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try new combinations.
With so many delicious topping options available creating the perfect turkey burger is a fun and flavorful adventure. Whether you prefer classic combinations or adventurous twists, there’s a topping for every taste bud. So fire up the grill, cook up some juicy turkey burgers and get ready to experience a world of flavor possibilities.
How to Grill Turkey Burgers
The worst thing you can do is prepare patties that are too small and overcook them. Turkey will easily dry out rendering disgusting pucks if you grill on high heat. The sweet spot is a 1/4-pound, 3/4-inch-thick burger that is cooked on medium heat for five to six minutes on each side. This ensures you will still have a tender and juicy inside without totally burning the outside. Ground turkey has less fat so you really need to be careful about overcooking it.
That being said, always ensure the internal temperature reads 165°F before removing it from the heat.
How to Make The Best Turkey Burgers
FAQ
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