Turkey burgers are a fantastic choice when you want a lighter meal that still feels hearty and satisfying. They are quick to make and can be packed with so many good flavors, making them a family favorite for easy weeknights or backyard cookouts.
Today, I’m sharing two great turkey burger recipes that I know you will appreciate. Both are simple to prepare and focus on delivering delicious taste with straightforward ingredients.
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Healthy Balsamic Caramelized Onion Turkey Burgers
These turkey burgers are a healthy way to enjoy a classic burger experience. They feature sweet caramelized onions and a tangy balsamic glaze for amazing depth of flavor.
Key Ingredients & Tips
- Lean Ground Turkey: Using 93% lean ground turkey gives you good flavor while keeping the fat content down.
- Slow Caramelization: Take your time when cooking the onions; this slow process brings out their natural sweetness and deep color.
- Balsamic Glaze: A quick reduction of balsamic vinegar adds a bright, tangy finish that perfectly balances the burger.
What You Need
- 1 lb lean ground turkey
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp brown sugar (optional, for onions)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 4 whole wheat burger buns
- Lettuce, tomato, and avocado for serving
⏱️ Time: 50 minutes🍽️ Yields: 4 burgers
How to Make It
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and cook slowly for 20-25 minutes, stirring sometimes, until they are very soft and golden brown. Stir in brown sugar if you are using it, then add balsamic vinegar and cook for another 2 minutes until it thickens slightly. Set aside.
Step 2: Form Burger Patties
In a medium bowl, gently mix the ground turkey with salt and pepper. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the burgers tough. Divide the mixture into four equal patties.
Step 3: Cook the Turkey Burgers
Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the turkey patties for 5-7 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and no longer pink in the middle. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Toast the buns lightly if you like. Place a cooked turkey patty on each bun. Top generously with the balsamic caramelized onions, fresh lettuce, tomato, and sliced avocado. Serve immediately.
📝 Final Note
For an even lighter meal option, you can serve these delicious patties on a bed of fresh greens instead of a bun.
Juicy Grilled Turkey Burgers
Get ready for a perfectly grilled turkey burger that’s full of simple, good flavor and stays wonderfully moist. This recipe focuses on easy seasonings and smart grilling methods to help you get the best result.
Key Ingredients & Tips
- Moisture Matters: Adding a little grated onion or a touch of olive oil to the turkey mixture helps prevent the patties from drying out on the grill.
- Don’t Overcook: Turkey burgers cook quicker than beef. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C) without going past that temperature.
- Good Grill Marks: Make sure your grill is hot and clean before adding the burgers. This helps create nice grill marks and promotes even cooking.
What You Need
- 1 lb lean ground turkey
- 1/4 cup finely grated onion (optional, for moisture)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 4 burger buns
- Your favorite burger toppings like cheese, pickles, and ketchup
⏱️ Time: 35 minutes🍽️ Yields: 4 burgers
How to Make It
Step 1: Prepare the Burger Patties
In a medium bowl, gently combine the ground turkey, grated onion (if you are using it), olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix just until everything is combined, then shape the mixture into four equally sized patties. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty; this helps prevent them from bulging while cooking.
Step 2: Preheat Your Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for about 375-400°F (190-200°C). Clean the grill grates really well and lightly oil them to help prevent the burgers from sticking.
Step 3: Grill the Burgers
Place the turkey patties carefully on the hot grill. Cook for 5-7 minutes on the first side, then flip them over gently. Cook for another 5-7 minutes on the second side, or until the burgers are cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 4: Serve Them Fresh
While the burgers are grilling, you can toast the buns on the grill for the last minute or two. Serve your juicy turkey burgers immediately on toasted buns with all your favorite toppings like cheese, pickles, and ketchup.
📝 Final Note
Let the burgers rest for a few minutes off the grill before serving. This simple step helps the juices redistribute, keeping your burgers extra juicy.
