If youβre looking for a tasty and easy turkey burger recipe, youβre in the right place! The Barefoot Contessaβs Turkey Burgers are packed with flavor and simple to make. In this post, Iβll show you how to prep juicy patties, choose the best toppings, and cook them to perfection. Whether youβre a seasoned cook or just starting, these tips will help you make a dinner everyone loves! Dive in and get ready to savor your next meal!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Healthier Option: These turkey burgers are a leaner alternative to traditional beef burgers, making them a great choice for a healthier meal.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and spices creates a deliciously savory flavor that elevates these burgers.
- Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from prep to plate, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or quick weekend meals.
- Avocado Bliss: The addition of fresh avocado not only adds creaminess but also boosts the nutritional value of the burgers.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
- 4 whole grain burger buns
- Lettuce leaves
- Tomato slices
- Olive oil for cooking
Ground turkey is lean and tasty. It makes a great base for burgers. You get protein without too much fat. Breadcrumbs help bind the meat. They give the burgers a nice texture.
Red onion adds a sweet crunch. It brings a fresh taste. Dijon mustard gives a spicy kick. Worcestershire sauce adds depth and umami flavor.
Garlic powder and paprika are key spices. They boost the overall taste. Donβt forget salt and pepper. They help balance all the flavors.
Fresh toppings make the burger shine. Sliced avocado is creamy and rich. Lettuce adds crunch, and tomato brings juiciness. All these ingredients come together for a perfect bite.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of Turkey Patties
To make the turkey patties, start by mixing the ingredients in a large bowl. You need:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all these items until just mixed. Do not overwork the meat, or it will be tough.
Next, divide the mixture into four equal portions. Shape each portion into a patty, about 3/4 inch thick. Press a small indentation in the center of each patty. This helps them cook evenly and prevents puffing.
Cooking Method
Now, itβs time to cook your patties. You can use a skillet or a grill for this step. If you choose a skillet, heat it over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
For the grill, make sure it is at medium heat as well. Once hot, place the turkey patties on the skillet or grill. Cook them for about 5 to 6 minutes on one side.
After that, flip the patties carefully. Cook for another 5 to 6 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165Β°F (75Β°C). This ensures they are safe to eat.
While your patties cook, toast the burger buns lightly. This adds great flavor and a nice crunch.
Assembling the Turkey Burgers
Now, letβs put it all together! Start by placing a lettuce leaf and a slice of tomato on the bottom half of each toasted bun.
Next, add the cooked turkey patty on top. Finally, layer slices of ripe avocado on the turkey patty.
Place the top half of the bun over the avocado. You can serve these burgers right away. They taste best fresh! Add your favorite condiments on the side for extra flavor.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Patties
To avoid dry turkey burgers, start with moist ingredients. Mix ground turkey, breadcrumbs, and onion gently. Overmixing can lead to tough patties. Keep the mixture light and airy for juicy results.
Making an indentation is key. When you shape the patties, press your thumb into the center. This helps the patties cook evenly. Without it, they puff up, which can make them dry.
Cooking Techniques
For the best cooking temperature, aim for medium heat. This ensures even cooking while keeping the patties juicy. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165Β°F (75Β°C).
Grilling gives a nice smoky flavor. Use a grill for those charred marks. SautΓ©ing in a skillet is great too. Add olive oil to prevent sticking. Both methods work well, so choose what you enjoy most!
Pro Tips
- Keep It Juicy: Adding breadcrumbs helps to retain moisture in the turkey burgers, preventing them from becoming dry during cooking.
- Donβt Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overworking the turkey can lead to tough burgers.
- Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your turkey burgers are cooked to an internal temperature of 165Β°F (75Β°C) for safety.
- Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite toppings such as cheese, pickles, or spicy mayo to enhance the flavor of your turkey burger.
Variations
Flavorful Additions
To boost the flavor of your turkey burgers, try adding different herbs and spices. Fresh parsley, thyme, or oregano can add a nice touch. You can also use dried spices like cumin or chili powder for a kick.
Cheese is another great way to add flavor. Try sharp cheddar for a bold taste. Feta cheese brings a nice tang. If you want something creamy, go for mozzarella. Simply place a slice on the patty right before it finishes cooking. This will melt perfectly.
Healthy Alternatives
If you want a low-carb option, skip the bun. Use lettuce leaves instead. They work well to hold your turkey patty and toppings. You can also serve the burger on a slice of tomato for a fresh twist.
For gluten-free needs, swap the breadcrumbs with ground almonds. This gives a nice texture without gluten. You can also use gluten-free breadcrumbs if you prefer. Just make sure to check the label to ensure they fit your diet.
Storage Info
Refrigerating Leftovers
To store your cooked turkey patties, let them cool first. Place them in an airtight container. This keeps the burgers fresh for about three days. You can also wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Make sure to label the container with the date. This way, you wonβt forget when you made them. When you are ready to eat, simply reheat in a skillet or microwave.
Freezing Instructions
Freezing is great for both uncooked and cooked burgers. For uncooked patties, lay them on a baking tray. Freeze them for about an hour until firm. Then, transfer the patties to a freezer bag. This method prevents them from sticking together. They can stay in the freezer for up to three months.
For cooked burgers, let them cool before freezing. Wrap each burger in foil or plastic wrap. Place the wrapped burgers into a freezer bag. They will keep well for about two months. When youβre ready to enjoy them, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the oven or on a skillet for best taste.
FAQs
What can I use instead of ground turkey?
If you want a substitute for ground turkey, several options work well. You can use ground chicken, which has a similar taste and texture. Ground beef is another choice, but it will add more fat. For a plant-based option, try black beans or lentils. These options are great for a veggie burger. Each substitute may change the flavor, but they all bring something tasty to the table.
How do I know when turkey burgers are done?
To check if your turkey burgers are done, use a meat thermometer. The safe internal temperature for turkey is 165Β°F (75Β°C). Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the patty. If it reads 165Β°F, your burger is ready. If you donβt have a thermometer, cut into the burger. It should not be pink inside. Cooking until the juices run clear also helps ensure itβs done.
Can I make the patties ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the patties ahead of time. Shape them and place them on a tray. Cover them with plastic wrap and store in the fridge for a few hours. If you need to prepare them for a longer time, freeze them. Wrap each patty in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They can stay frozen for up to three months. Just thaw them in the fridge before cooking. This makes meal prep easy and quick for busy days.
You learned how to make tasty turkey burgers step by step. We covered the main ingredients, cooking methods, and tips for a perfect patty. Remember to check the temperature to ensure itβs cooked right. Feel free to mix flavors with herbs or cheese for a twist. Turkey burgers are great for meal prep, too. Store leftovers properly to enjoy them later. With these methods, you can create a delicious meal thatβs both healthy and satisfying. Enjoy your cooking adventure

Savory Turkey Burgers with Avocado Bliss
IngredientsΒ Β
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 0.5 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat)
- 0.25 cup finely chopped red onion
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- to taste Salt and pepper
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
- 4 whole grain burger buns
- as needed Lettuce leaves
- as needed Tomato slices
- as needed Olive oil for cooking
InstructionsΒ
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, chopped red onion, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined; do not overwork the meat.
- Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape them into patties, about 3/4 inch thick. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty to prevent it from puffing up during cooking.
- Heat a skillet or grill over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, place the turkey patties on the skillet or grill. Cook for 5-6 minutes on one side.
- Carefully flip the patties and cook for an additional 5-6 minutes on the other side until the internal temperature reaches 165Β°F (75Β°C).
- While the burgers are cooking, toast the burger buns lightly on the skillet or grill for added flavor and texture.
- To assemble the burgers, place a lettuce leaf and a slice of tomato on the bottom half of each bun. Add the cooked turkey patty, and top with slices of avocado. Place the top half of the bun over the avocado.
- Serve immediately with your favorite condiments on the side.