Baked Turkey Burgers
Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Classics
I absolutely love making baked turkey burgers because they are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. The combination of lean turkey and spices creates a juicy patty that’s both satisfying and healthier than traditional beef options. By baking them, I skip the mess of grilling, and they turn out perfectly cooked every time. These burgers are fantastic for a quick weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. Trust me, once you try these, you'll want to add them to your regular meal rotation!
When I first decided to make baked turkey burgers, I was on a mission to create a healthier alternative to beef burgers that wouldn’t sacrifice flavor. After trying various seasonings, I found a perfect blend that includes garlic powder, onion powder, and fresh herbs. The results were beyond my expectations – juicy and flavorful patties that everyone loved!
Another key tip I discovered is to use a bit of olive oil in the mixture; it not only keeps the burgers moist but also gives them a lovely richness. It’s important to ensure they are not overcooked, so I recommend using a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F. This way, you’ll avoid dry patties and enjoy the perfect burger every time.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Juicy and flavorful patties with a perfect blend of spices
- Healthier alternative to traditional beef burgers without compromising taste
- Quick and easy preparation, perfect for busy weeknights
Perfecting the Patty
When forming your patties, keep in mind that the mixture should be moist but not overly wet. Ground turkey can be a bit tricky because it’s leaner than beef, which means it can dry out easily. Make sure to mix thoroughly, but avoid overworking the meat, which can lead to a dense patty. I find that wetting my hands helps shape the patties without sticking.
To ensure even cooking, aim to make the patties roughly uniform in size and thickness. A thickness of about 1/2 inch is ideal. This allows for a nicely cooked exterior while keeping the inside juicy. Using a digital thermometer can help you monitor the doneness; look for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to guarantee they’re safely cooked and still succulent.
Baking Tips
Baking the burgers rather than frying them helps maintain moisture while reducing excess fat. I recommend lining your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking. If you notice the patties getting too dark on top before they’re fully cooked, gently tent them with aluminum foil halfway through baking. This shields them from direct heat but allows continued cooking.
If you want to infuse even more flavor, consider adding a few spoonfuls of your favorite BBQ sauce or Worcestershire sauce to the turkey mixture. These can enhance the savory notes of the burger. Keep in mind that if you opt for a sauce, you may want to slightly reduce the breadcrumbs so the patty maintains its integrity.
Ingredients
For the Baked Turkey Burgers
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Burger buns, for serving
- Lettuce, tomato, and other desired toppings
Mix the ingredients well and form into patties.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you prepare the burger mixture.
Prepare the Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, minced garlic, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Drizzle in the olive oil and mix until all the ingredients are well combined.
Form the Patties
Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape each portion into a patty, about 1/2 inch thick.
Bake the Patties
Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Serve and Enjoy
Remove from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve in burger buns with your favorite toppings.
Enjoy your delicious baked turkey burgers!
Pro Tips
- Feel free to customize the seasonings based on your preferences. You can add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for an extra layer of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to toppings, the sky is the limit. Classic options like lettuce, tomato, and pickles work wonderfully, but I love adding avocado or even a dollop of tzatziki for a refreshing twist. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a spicy aioli or a homemade salsa to elevate the flavor profile. Just remember to keep your toppings light so they don’t overwhelm the turkey flavor.
For a heartier meal, serve these turkey burgers with a side of sweet potato fries or a quinoa salad. These sides complement the lean nature of the burger and add a satisfying crunch without the heaviness of traditional fries.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, you can store the cooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They can also be frozen. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
For meal prep, consider making a double batch. The uncooked patties freeze well too, allowing you to pull them out and bake fresh burgers on busy weeknights. Just be sure to thaw them in the fridge overnight before baking for the best texture.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, ground chicken can be used as a great alternative, and it will yield similar results.
→ How can I make these burgers spicier?
Add some cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the mixture for a spicy kick.
→ Can I make these burgers ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can form the patties and refrigerate them up to a day in advance before baking.
→ What toppings do you recommend?
Favorite toppings include lettuce, tomato, avocado, and a dollop of yogurt or your favorite sauce.
Baked Turkey Burgers
I absolutely love making baked turkey burgers because they are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. The combination of lean turkey and spices creates a juicy patty that’s both satisfying and healthier than traditional beef options. By baking them, I skip the mess of grilling, and they turn out perfectly cooked every time. These burgers are fantastic for a quick weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. Trust me, once you try these, you'll want to add them to your regular meal rotation!
Created by: Kayla Monroe
Recipe Type: Everyday Comfort Classics
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 burgers
What You'll Need
For the Baked Turkey Burgers
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Burger buns, for serving
- Lettuce, tomato, and other desired toppings
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you prepare the burger mixture.
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, minced garlic, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Drizzle in the olive oil and mix until all the ingredients are well combined.
Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape each portion into a patty, about 1/2 inch thick.
Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Remove from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve in burger buns with your favorite toppings.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to customize the seasonings based on your preferences. You can add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for an extra layer of flavor.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 24g