Name: Herbed Turkey Burger Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; ½ medium red onion; 4 garlic cloves; 2 lbs ground turkey meat; ½ tsp salt; 1 tsp black pepper; ½ cup parsley; 1 tbsp fresh rosemary; 1 tbsp fresh sage; 2 tsp Fresh Thyme; For Serving and Toppings:; burger buns; sliced onions; lettuce; sliced tomatoes; Bacon; mayonnaise; mustard; relish; ketchup

Enjoy a flavorful and juicy alternative to the traditional beef burger with this herbed turkey burger recipe. Packed with fresh herbs and aromatics, these burgers are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue. Serve them with your favorite toppings and condiments for a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Photos of Herbed Turkey Burger Recipe

Fresh herbs like rosemary, sage, and thyme may not be staples in every household, so be sure to pick them up at the supermarket. Additionally, using ground turkey meat instead of beef provides a leaner option, but make sure to select a blend that isn't too lean to maintain juiciness.

Ingredients for Herbed Turkey Burger Recipe

extra virgin olive oil: Adds a rich, fruity flavor and helps in sautéing the onions and garlic.

red onion: Provides a sweet and slightly pungent flavor when sautéed.

garlic: Adds a robust, aromatic flavor to the burger mix.

ground turkey meat: A leaner alternative to beef, it needs to be combined with other ingredients to stay moist and flavorful.

salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients.

black pepper: Adds a mild heat and complexity to the burger.

parsley: Fresh and slightly peppery, it adds a burst of freshness.

fresh rosemary: Provides a piney, earthy aroma and flavor.

fresh sage: Adds a warm, slightly peppery flavor with hints of eucalyptus.

fresh thyme: Contributes a subtle earthiness with a hint of mint.

One reader, Evyn Crow says:

This herbed turkey burger recipe is fantastic! The fresh herbs add incredible flavor, and the patties are juicy and delicious. Perfect for a healthy and tasty meal. Highly recommend!

Evyn Crow

Techniques Required for Making Herbed Turkey Burgers

How to sauté onions and garlic: Sauté the chopped onion in olive oil over medium heat for 3 minutes, then add garlic and continue sautéing for another 2 minutes until the garlic begins to brown. How to form burger patties: Mix the ground turkey, sautéed onions, garlic, salt, pepper, and herbs, then shape the mixture into patties, making a slight indentation in the middle of each patty. How to cook burgers on a grill or cast iron pan: Cook the patties on a hot grill or in a hot cast iron frying pan for 5 to 6 minutes per side until they are cooked through. How to toast burger buns: Toast the buns on the grill or in a toaster until they are golden brown.

How To Make Herbed Turkey Burger

To keep this turkey burger deliciously moist, thigh and leg meat are used, as well as olive oil. Then parsley, rosemary, sage, and thyme make it tasty.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2tbspextra virgin olive oil
½medium red onion,minced
4garlic cloves,minced
2lbsground turkey meat,(preferably from the legs and thighs)
½tspsalt
1tspblack pepper
½cupparsley,loosely packed, chopped
1tbspfresh rosemary,minced
1tbspfresh sage,minced
2tspfresh thyme,chopped

For Serving and Toppings:

burger buns
sliced onions
lettuce
sliced tomatoes
bacon
mayonnaise
mustard
relish
ketchup

Instructions

Sauté the chopped onion in olive oil for 3 minutes over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for another 2 minutes, or until the garlic begins to brown.
Remove from heat. Transfer the onions, garlic, and oil to a large bowl to cool down.
Once the onions are cool to the touch, add the ground turkey, salt, pepper, and herbs into the bowl. Using hands, gently mix everything until well combined.
Form the meat into patties. Use fingers to form a slight indentation in the middle of the patties.
Cook on a hot grill or in a hot cast iron frying pan for 5 to 6 minutes per side, until cooked through
Toast the buns and serve the burgers with accompaniments of choice—sliced onions, lettuce, sliced tomatoes, bacon, mayonnaise, mustard, relish, and/or ketchup.

Nutrition

Calories: 168.90kcal
Fat: 5.83g
Saturated Fat: 1.08g
Trans Fat: 0.01g
Monounsaturated Fat: 3.08g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.87g
Carbohydrates: 2.58g
Fiber: 0.90g
Sugar: 0.46g
Protein: 26.19g
Cholesterol: 75.98mg
Sodium: 303.81mg
Calcium: 42.92mg
Potassium: 324.52mg
Iron: 1.66mg
Vitamin A: 29.93µg
Vitamin C: 6.66mg

Essential Technique for Perfectly Cooked Turkey Burgers

When forming the patties, make sure to create a slight indentation in the center. This helps the burgers cook more evenly and prevents them from puffing up in the middle.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Herbed Turkey Burgers

Pre-chop ingredients: Chop the onion and garlic in advance and store them in the fridge.

Use a food processor: Quickly mince the herbs and garlic using a food processor.

Batch cook patties: Form and cook extra turkey patties to freeze for future meals.

Pre-make toppings: Slice onions, tomatoes, and cook bacon ahead of time.

Use pre-washed lettuce: Save time by using pre-washed lettuce.

Toast buns together: Toast all burger buns at once in the oven.

Substitute Ingredients For Herbed Turkey Burger Recipe

extra virgin olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar smoke point and neutral flavor, making it a good alternative for cooking.
red onion - Substitute with yellow onion: Yellow onions have a slightly milder flavor but can be used interchangeably in most recipes.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Use 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove of garlic to maintain the garlic flavor.
ground turkey meat - Substitute with ground chicken: Ground chicken has a similar texture and flavor profile, making it a suitable replacement.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a similar salty flavor along with a bit of umami.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat but a slightly different flavor, which can still complement the dish.
parsley - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro provides a fresh, herbaceous flavor similar to parsley, though it has a more distinct taste.
fresh rosemary - Substitute with dried rosemary: Use 1/3 the amount of dried rosemary as fresh, as dried herbs are more concentrated.
fresh sage - Substitute with dried sage: Use 1/3 the amount of dried sage as fresh, due to the concentrated flavor of dried herbs.
fresh thyme - Substitute with dried thyme: Use 1/3 the amount of dried thyme as fresh, as dried herbs have a stronger flavor.
burger buns - Substitute with lettuce wraps: Lettuce wraps provide a low-carb alternative while still holding the burger and toppings together.
sliced onions - Substitute with caramelized onions: Caramelized onions add a sweet and rich flavor that complements the savory burger.
lettuce - Substitute with spinach: Spinach provides a similar crunch and nutritional profile, with a slightly different flavor.
sliced tomatoes - Substitute with roasted red peppers: Roasted red peppers add a sweet and smoky flavor that pairs well with the other toppings.
bacon - Substitute with turkey bacon: Turkey bacon offers a similar crispy texture and smoky flavor with less fat.
mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt provides a creamy texture with added protein and less fat.
mustard - Substitute with dijon mustard: Dijon mustard has a similar tangy flavor but is slightly more refined and less acidic.
relish - Substitute with chopped pickles: Chopped pickles provide a similar tangy and crunchy element to the burger.
ketchup - Substitute with tomato paste: Tomato paste offers a concentrated tomato flavor with less sweetness and added depth.

Best Way to Serve Herbed Turkey Burgers

Use artisanal buns: Select high-quality burger buns with a slight crisp on the outside and a soft, airy interior. Toast them lightly to enhance their flavor and texture.
Perfectly cooked patties: Ensure the turkey patties are cooked to perfection, with a slight char on the outside and juicy on the inside. Use a hot grill or cast iron pan to achieve this.
Layer with precision: Start with a base of fresh lettuce, followed by the turkey patty. Add a slice of bacon for a smoky flavor, then top with thinly sliced onions and tomatoes.
Gourmet condiments: Offer a selection of high-quality condiments such as homemade mayonnaise, artisanal mustard, tangy relish, and rich ketchup. Present them in small, elegant bowls.
Herb garnish: Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, rosemary, sage, and thyme on top of the burger for an aromatic touch.
Elegant plating: Serve the burger on a large, white plate with a side of lightly dressed mixed greens. Add a small ramekin of extra condiments for a refined touch.
Attention to detail: Ensure each element is meticulously placed, with no smudges or drips on the plate. The presentation should be clean and inviting, showcasing the quality and care put into each component.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Turkey Burgers

Cutting board: A sturdy surface for chopping the red onion, garlic, and herbs.
Chef's knife: Essential for finely chopping the onion, garlic, and fresh herbs.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs accurately.
Sauté pan: For sautéing the chopped onion and garlic in olive oil.
Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the onions and garlic while they sauté.
Large mixing bowl: To combine the sautéed onions, garlic, ground turkey, and herbs.
Grill or cast iron frying pan: For cooking the turkey patties to perfection.
Spatula: Useful for flipping the turkey patties on the grill or in the frying pan.
Toaster or grill: To toast the burger buns for serving.
Plates: For assembling and serving the finished turkey burgers with toppings.
Meat thermometer: Optional but helpful to ensure the turkey patties are cooked through to a safe internal temperature.

Storing and Freezing Homemade Turkey Burgers

To store leftover cooked turkey burgers, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container or wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
For uncooked turkey burger patties, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid (about 2 hours). Once frozen, transfer the patties to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating each patty with a piece of parchment paper to prevent sticking. Label the bag or container with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
To reheat frozen cooked turkey burgers, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the burgers on a baking sheet. Cover the sheet with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally, until warmed through.
When ready to cook frozen uncooked turkey burger patties, remove them from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, cook the patties according to the recipe instructions, adjusting the cooking time as needed to ensure they are cooked through.
To maintain the best quality and flavor, consume frozen cooked or uncooked turkey burgers within 3 months of freezing. After this time, the burgers may still be safe to eat but may experience changes in texture and taste.

How To Reheat Leftover Turkey Burgers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover turkey burgers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Cover the burgers loosely with another sheet of foil to prevent them from drying out. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
For a quicker option, use a microwave. Place the burger on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. This will help retain moisture. Microwave on high for 30-60 seconds, depending on the thickness of the burger and the power of your microwave.
If you have a toaster oven, you can reheat the turkey burgers in it. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the burgers on the wire rack. Heat for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through.
For a crispy exterior, reheat the burgers in a skillet or on a griddle. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the pan and heat over medium heat. Add the burgers and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until heated through and slightly crispy.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your turkey burgers. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the burgers in the basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through. This method will also give you a crispy exterior.

Interesting Fact About Herbed Turkey Burgers

A fun fact about this herbed turkey burger recipe is that using fresh herbs like rosemary, sage, and thyme not only enhances the flavor but also adds nutritional benefits. Fresh herbs are rich in antioxidants and can help boost your immune system.

Is Making Herbed Turkey Burgers at Home Cost-Effective?

This herbed turkey burger recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Ground turkey meat is generally affordable, and the use of fresh herbs like parsley, rosemary, sage, and thyme adds flavor without breaking the bank. Common toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, and onions are inexpensive and readily available. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 8 out of 10. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25 USD.

Are Herbed Turkey Burgers Healthy or Unhealthy?

The herbed turkey burger recipe is a healthier alternative to traditional beef burgers. Turkey is a lean protein source, lower in saturated fat and calories compared to beef. The addition of herbs like parsley, rosemary, sage, and thyme not only enhances the flavor but also provides various health benefits. These herbs contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that can support overall health.

However, there are a few aspects of the recipe that could be improved to make it even healthier:

Choose whole wheat or multigrain burger buns for added fiber and nutrients
Opt for low-fat mayonnaise or replace it with mashed avocado for a healthier spread
Reduce the amount of salt used in the recipe to lower sodium intake
Use turkey with a lower fat percentage, such as 93% lean ground turkey
Add more vegetables to the burger patties, such as grated zucchini or carrots, to increase fiber and nutrient content

To further enhance the nutritional value of the herbed turkey burgers, consider the following suggestions:

Serve the burgers with a side salad or roasted vegetables to increase the overall vegetable intake
Replace the bacon with grilled portobello mushrooms for a smoky flavor without the added saturated fat
Use a whole wheat wrap or lettuce wrap instead of a bun for a low-carb option
Experiment with different herb combinations to discover new flavors and potential health benefits
Prepare the burgers on a grill or in a grill pan to allow excess fat to drain away during cooking

Editor's Opinion on This Herbed Turkey Burger Recipe

This herbed turkey burger recipe is a delightful twist on a classic. The sautéed red onion and garlic add depth, while the fresh herbs—parsley, rosemary, sage, and thyme—infuse the patties with vibrant flavors. The use of ground turkey makes it a leaner option without sacrificing taste. Cooking the patties on a hot grill or cast iron pan ensures a juicy, well-seared burger. The variety of toppings allows for customization, catering to diverse palates. Overall, it's a well-balanced, flavorful dish perfect for a gourmet yet healthy meal.

Enhance Your Herbed Turkey Burger Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Imagine the smoky char of grilled asparagus paired with the bright zing of lemon zest. This side dish adds a refreshing contrast to the savory herbed turkey burger, making each bite a delightful experience.

Sweet Potato Fries with Spicy Aioli: Sweet Potato Fries with Spicy Aioli: Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, sweet potato fries are the perfect companion to your burger. Dip them in a creamy, spicy aioli for an extra kick that will tantalize your taste buds.

Quinoa Salad with Cranberries and Pecans: Quinoa Salad with Cranberries and Pecans: This vibrant quinoa salad features the tartness of dried cranberries and the crunch of toasted pecans. It's a nutritious and flavorful side that complements the rich flavors of the turkey burger.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Brussels sprouts are roasted to perfection and drizzled with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze. This side dish adds a touch of elegance and a burst of flavor to your meal.

Watermelon and Feta Salad: Watermelon and Feta Salad: Juicy watermelon chunks combined with creamy feta cheese create a refreshing and unexpected side dish. The sweet and salty combination is a delightful contrast to the savory turkey burger.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Herbed Turkey Burgers

Mediterranean Turkey Meatballs: Transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with these succulent turkey meatballs. Infused with garlic, oregano, and feta cheese, these meatballs are perfect for serving over pasta or with a side of tzatziki sauce and pita bread.

Turkey and Avocado Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter, yet flavorful meal, try these turkey and avocado lettuce wraps. Ground turkey is seasoned with cumin and chili powder, then wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves and topped with creamy avocado and a squeeze of lime.

Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet: This one-pan wonder combines ground turkey with nutrient-rich sweet potatoes, bell peppers, and a medley of spices. It's a hearty and wholesome dish that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers are stuffed with a savory mixture of ground turkey, spinach, quinoa, and tomato sauce. Baked to perfection, these stuffed peppers are a nutritious and satisfying meal.

Turkey and Black Bean Chili: Warm up with a bowl of turkey and black bean chili. This hearty chili is packed with ground turkey, black beans, tomatoes, and a blend of spices. Top with cheese, sour cream, and cilantro for a comforting and delicious meal.

Appetizers and Desserts That Complement Herbed Turkey Burgers

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these Stuffed Mushrooms. The earthy flavor of mushrooms is perfectly complemented by a savory filling of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The breadcrumbs on top add a delightful crunch, making each bite a textural delight. These bite-sized treats are easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, allowing you to focus on the main course. Serve them warm to enjoy the melty, creamy filling.

Caprese Skewers: Bring a touch of Italy to your table with Caprese Skewers. These colorful skewers feature juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and creamy mozzarella balls. Drizzle them with a balsamic reduction for a sweet and tangy finish. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to please any palate. These skewers are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a perfect starter for any meal.

Desserts:

Lemon Tart: Imagine a Lemon Tart with a crisp, buttery crust filled with a luscious, tangy lemon curd. The tartness of the lemon pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few fresh berries for a touch of elegance. This dessert is a perfect balance of sweet and tart, making it a refreshing end to your meal.

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy Chocolate Mousse that melts in your mouth. This decadent dessert is made with high-quality dark chocolate, giving it an intense flavor. Serve it in individual ramekins or martini glasses for a sophisticated presentation. Top with a swirl of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chocolate shavings or cocoa powder. For an added twist, incorporate a hint of espresso or orange zest to elevate the flavor profile.

Why trust this Herbed Turkey Burger Recipe:

This herbed turkey burger recipe is a surefire way to elevate your burger game. With the perfect blend of fresh herbs like rosemary, sage, and thyme, it offers a burst of flavor in every bite. The sautéed onions and garlic add a rich, savory depth, while the ground turkey keeps it lean and healthy. Trust this recipe for a delicious, gourmet burger experience that’s easy to make and sure to impress.

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FAQ:

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use dried herbs if you don't have fresh ones on hand. Just remember to use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.

How do I know when the turkey burgers are fully cooked?

The turkey burgers are fully cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check this.

Can I make these burgers ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the patties ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to cover them well.

What can I use as a substitute for parsley?

If you don't have parsley, you can use cilantro or basil as a substitute. They will give a different flavor but still taste great.

Can I cook these burgers in the oven?

Yes, you can bake the turkey burgers in the oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the patties on a baking sheet for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.