Grilled Turkey Burgers

lighter take on the classic burger, these Grilled Turkey Burgers are juicy, flavorful, and perfect for outdoor gatherings or a quick weeknight meal. Lean ground turkey is seasoned with onions, garlic, and a hint of mustard, then grilled to perfection for a healthy and satisfying entrée.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Lean and healthy: Uses ground turkey for a lower-fat alternative without sacrificing juiciness.

• Simple ingredients: Pantry staples and minimal prep make it accessible for cooks of any level.

• Versatile: Easily customized with different herbs, spices, and toppings to suit your taste.

• Quick to prepare: Ready in under 30 minutes, ideal for busy schedules or impromptu barbecues.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450 g) ground turkey

• ¼ cup (30 g) plain breadcrumbs

• 1 large egg, lightly beaten

• ¼ cup finely chopped yellow onion

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• ½ teaspoon kosher salt

• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• Cooking spray or a light drizzle of olive oil, for the grill

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the grill: Heat to medium-high (about 400 °F/200 °C) and lightly oil the grill grates.

2. Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, gently mix the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until just combined. Avoid overworking the meat to maintain tenderness.

3. Form patties: Divide the mixture into four equal portions. Shape each into a ¾-inch–thick patty, making a slight indentation in the center to prevent doming.

4. Grill: Place the patties on the preheated grill. Cook for 5–6 minutes per side, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center reads 165 °F (74 °C).

5. Rest: Transfer the burgers to a plate and let rest for 3–5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.

6. Serve: Place each turkey burger on a toasted bun with your choice of toppings—lettuce, tomato, avocado, or cheese all work beautifully.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 burgers

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 10–12 minutes

• Total time: 25–27 minutes

Variations

• Herb-infused: Add 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for a bright, herbal note.

• Spicy kick: Mix in ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes or swap Dijon for spicy brown mustard.

• Cheesy center: Press a small cube of pepper Jack or mozzarella into each patty before sealing.

• Mediterranean style: Stir in 1 teaspoon dried oregano and top with tzatziki and sliced cucumbers.

• Bun alternatives: Serve on lettuce wraps, whole-grain buns, or portobello mushroom caps for a low-carb option.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store cooled burgers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: Place patties in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months.

• Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through. If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

What type of ground turkey is best for burgers?

Use lean ground turkey (93% lean or higher). A small amount of fat helps keep the burger moist without excessive grease.

How can I prevent my turkey burgers from sticking to the grill?

Ensure the grill grates are clean and well-oiled. You can also brush a bit of oil directly on each patty before grilling.

Can I prepare the patties ahead of time?

Yes. Form the patties and refrigerate them on a tray (covered) for up to 24 hours before grilling.

Is it safe to eat turkey burgers medium-rare?

No. Ground poultry must reach 165 °F (74 °C) throughout to ensure safety. Always use an instant-read thermometer.

Can I bake these turkey burgers instead of grilling?

Absolutely. Bake at 400 °F (200 °C) on a lightly oiled baking sheet for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What are some healthy topping ideas?

Fresh vegetables like tomato, lettuce, and red onion, alongside avocado slices or a dollop of Greek yogurt-based sauce.

How do I keep turkey burgers from drying out?

Avoid overmixing the meat and do not press down on the patties while cooking. Resting after grilling also helps retain moisture.

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Yes. Swap ground turkey for ground chicken using the same measurements and cooking method.

How can I add more flavor to the patties?

Incorporate finely chopped fresh herbs, a splash of soy sauce, or a teaspoon of smoked paprika into the mix.

What are good bun alternatives for gluten-free diets?

Use gluten-free hamburger buns, lettuce wraps, or grilled portobello mushroom caps.

Conclusion

These Grilled Turkey Burgers deliver a perfect balance of healthfulness and flavor. With straightforward ingredients and minimal prep, they are an ideal choice for anyone seeking a lighter yet satisfying burger. Whether you stick to the classic seasoning or explore variations, this recipe offers flexibility and convenience. Enjoy them fresh off the grill or prepare in advance for easy weeknight dinners.