Turkey Burger Recipe

I started making turkey burgers because I told myself I was going to “eat lighter.” That lasted about three days before I realized I still wanted something that felt like an actual burger and not a sad salad in disguise.

The first time I made these, I expected dry. That’s just the reputation turkey gets. But using dark meat and adding egg and Worcestershire? Game changer.

Suddenly it wasn’t “healthy alternative energy.” It was just… a really good burger.

Now I make these when I want burger night without feeling like I need a nap afterward.

Why I Keep Making This Dish (The Real Reasons)

1. Quick win: From fridge to plate in 20 minutes.
2. Juicy surprise: Dark meat turkey saves the day.
3. Simple ingredients: Nothing complicated hiding here.
4. Customizable: Dress it up or keep it basic.
5. Weeknight friendly: No grill required.
6. Lighter feel: But still totally satisfying.
7. Burger night vibes: Without the heaviness.

Tips I Learned the Hard Way

• Use dark meat turkey: Lean-only turkey dries out fast.
• Don’t overmix: It makes the patties dense.
• Flatten them well: They shrink while cooking.
• Season properly: Turkey needs flavor support.
• Cook to 165°F: No guessing with poultry.
• Medium heat works best: Too hot and they brown before cooking through.
• Let them rest briefly: Juices settle and stay put.
• Oil the pan first: Turkey sticks more than beef.

Variations You Can Mess Around With

1. Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
2. Cheese Stuffed: Hide some mozzarella in the center.
3. Mediterranean Twist: Add feta and oregano.
4. BBQ Style: Brush with barbecue sauce at the end.
5. Lettuce Wrap: Skip the bun if you want.
6. Avocado Upgrade: Always a good idea.
7. Garlic Boost: Add one more clove. I won’t judge.

How To Make Turkey Burger Recipe?

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground turkey, preferably dark meat
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• Hamburger buns, lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and mayonnaise for serving

Instructions

Step 1:
In a large bowl, mix together the ground turkey, beaten egg, garlic, parsley, and Worcestershire sauce. Season with 1/2 teaspoon salt and black pepper to taste. Gently combine and form the mixture into 4 flat patties.

Step 2:
Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the patties and cook, turning halfway through, until browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes per side. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.

Step 3:
Serve the turkey burgers on buns with lettuce, sliced tomatoes, mayonnaise, or whatever toppings make you happy.

Turkey Burger Recipe

This Turkey Burger Recipe makes 4 juicy patties in just 20 minutes using ground turkey, egg, garlic, parsley, and Worcestershire sauce.

Cooked in a skillet until perfectly browned and served on buns with your favorite toppings, these burgers are flavorful, lighter than traditional beef burgers, and perfect for an easy weeknight meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Calories: 211

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb ground turkey preferably dark meat
• 1 large egg beaten
• 2 garlic cloves minced
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• Hamburger buns lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and mayonnaise for serving

Method

 

1. In a large bowl, mix together the ground turkey, beaten egg, garlic, parsley, and Worcestershire sauce. Season with 1/2 teaspoon salt and black pepper to taste. Gently combine and form the mixture into 4 flat patties.
2. Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the patties and cook, turning halfway through, until browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes per side. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
3. Serve the turkey burgers on buns with lettuce, sliced tomatoes, mayonnaise, or whatever toppings make you happy.

Notes

Turkey burgers don’t have to be dry or boring. With a little seasoning and the right turkey, they’re just as satisfying as the classic.

Maybe even better.

 

Nutritional Information

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredient size, quality, brand, location, and the proportions used. All nutritional information is calculated on a per-serving basis.

If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

How I Like to Serve This

• Classic style: Bun, lettuce, tomato, mayo. Done.
• With sweet potato fries: Solid combo.
• Open-faced: When I’m low on buns.
• With a fried egg on top: Slightly dramatic, very good.
• Burger bowl: Over greens with all the toppings.
• Backyard style: Even if I’m cooking inside.

Storage, Leftovers, and Next-Day Thoughts

1. Fridge life: Cooked patties keep for up to 3 days.
2. Reheat gently: Skillet or microwave both work.
3. Freezing raw patties: Totally fine, separate with parchment.
4. Freezing cooked burgers: Works well for quick meals.
5. Next-day sandwich: Still juicy and flavorful.
6. Meal prep option: Great for weekday lunches.

FAQs (Real Questions People Actually Ask)

Can I grill these instead of using a skillet?
Yes, just oil the grates well so they don’t stick.

Why are my turkey burgers dry?
You might be using very lean turkey or overcooking them.

Can I skip the egg?
You can, but the egg helps with moisture and binding.

What’s the best turkey to use?
Dark meat or a mix of dark and white is best.

Can I make these ahead?
Yes, shape the patties and refrigerate until ready to cook.

How do I know they’re done?
Internal temp should reach 165°F.

Can I add cheese?
Absolutely. Add a slice during the last minute of cooking.