These juicy grilled turkey burgers are a lighter twist on the classic favorite. They’re packed with flavor and stay nice and moist, making each bite delicious!
Don’t forget the toppings! I love adding fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and a splash of barbecue sauce. Trust me, you’ll be coming back for seconds (and thirds)! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: I recommend using 93% lean ground turkey for the best juiciness without being too greasy. If you’re looking for a leaner option, 99% lean turkey also works but might be a bit drier.
Breadcrumbs: These are optional but add nice texture. If you don’t have breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or oats can be good substitutes. You could also skip them for a gluten-free version by using ground almonds instead.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds great flavor. If you’re lactose intolerant, try nutritional yeast, which gives a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Worcestershire Sauce: Essential for moisture and depth of flavor. If you’re avoiding it due to dietary restrictions, a mix of soy sauce and a dash of vinegar can work well as a substitute.
Cheese: Mozzarella or Swiss are tasty choices for melting over the burgers. For a dairy-free option, try vegan cheese or simply skip the cheese altogether for a lighter burger.
How Do I Prevent Turkey Burgers from Puffing Up on the Grill?
Creating a perfect turkey burger patty can be tricky, and they often puff up while cooking. The key is to shape the patties correctly. Here’s how:
- When you form your patties, make a small indentation in the center. This helps them cook evenly and prevents puffing.
- Avoid overmixing the meat. Just mix until combined to keep the burger tender.
- Grill on medium-high heat, as cooking too hot can cause the burgers to dry out or puff up. Keep an eye on them!
How to Make Juicy Grilled Turkey Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Turkey Patties:
- 1 pound ground turkey (preferably 93% lean for juiciness)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional for added texture)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for flavor)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (for moisture and flavor)
For Serving:
- 4 slices mozzarella or Swiss cheese (optional)
- 4 hamburger buns
- Lettuce leaves (for serving)
- Tomato slices (for serving)
- Red onion slices (for serving)
- Ketchup and mustard (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, making a total of about 30 minutes. Perfect for a tasty lunch or quick dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs (if using), grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Gently mix everything together until just combined; be careful not to overwork the meat to keep it juicy!
2. Shape the Patties:
Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape each portion into a patty that’s about 3/4 inch thick. To keep your burgers from puffing up while they cook, make a small indentation in the center of each patty using your thumb. This little trick helps them maintain their shape!
3. Preheat the Grill:
Get your grill ready by preheating it to medium-high heat. Before placing the patties on the grill, give the grates a light oiling to help prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Turkey Patties:
Place the turkey patties on the grill and cook them for about 5-6 minutes on one side. Flip them over and grill for another 5-6 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If you’re adding cheese, lay a slice on each patty during the last minute of cooking, and close the grill lid to let it melt beautifully.
5. Toast the Buns:
While the burgers are cooking, take your hamburger buns and toast them on the grill for about 1-2 minutes until they’re nicely golden. This adds a wonderful crunch!
6. Assemble Your Burgers:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Start with a fresh lettuce leaf on the bottom half of each bun, add the grilled turkey patty next, and then pile on the tomato and red onion slices.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Cap it off with the top half of the bun, and serve your turkey burgers with ketchup and mustard on the side. Enjoy every juicy bite of your delicious grilled turkey burgers!
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken can be used as a substitute, but keep in mind it may be slightly less juicy than turkey. Just make sure to use a blend that includes skin for optimal moisture. The same cooking instructions apply.
How Can I Make These Burgers Moist Without Breadcrumbs?
For a moist burger without breadcrumbs, consider adding extra liquid ingredients like finely grated zucchini, diced onions, or even a splash of chicken broth to the turkey mixture. These additions will help keep the burgers juicy and flavorful.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Turkey Burgers?
Store any leftover cooked burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the microwave or a skillet, adding a few drops of water to maintain moisture. You can also freeze cooked burgers for up to 3 months; just reheat from frozen, adding a couple of minutes to ensure they’re heated through.
Can I Make These Burgers Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the patties up to a day in advance. Just form the patties, cover them tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to cook, grill them directly from the fridge. Make sure the internal temperature still reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety!
