Turkey burgers are a fantastic alternative to beef burgers-leaner, healthier, and just as delicious when done right. However, grilling turkey burgers can be tricky because they tend to dry out or fall apart if not handled properly. If you want juicy, flavorful turkey burgers that hold together and taste amazing, this guide is for you!
Why Turkey Burgers?
Ground turkey is leaner than beef, which means less fat but also less natural juiciness. That’s why grilling turkey burgers requires some extra care to keep them moist and flavorful. With the right ingredients, techniques, and grill settings, you can enjoy turkey burgers that are anything but bland or dry.
Preparing Your Turkey Burger Patties
Choose the Right Turkey
For the best results, use ground turkey with a bit of fat content-ideally 85/15 (85% lean, 15% fat) or 93/7 lean turkey mixed with some Italian turkey sausage. The fat helps keep the burgers juicy and adds flavor.
Mix Ingredients Gently
Add moisture and flavor boosters like finely minced onions, garlic, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings such as salt and pepper. Some recipes also use egg yolks or breadcrumbs/pork rind crumbs to bind the patties and lock in moisture.
Mix the ingredients gently by hand or with a spoon until just combined. Overmixing can make the burgers tough.
Form the Patties
Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape into patties about ¾ to 1 inch thick. Make a small indentation with your thumb in the center of each patty to prevent puffing and help them cook evenly.
Chill the patties for about 30 minutes before grilling to help them hold together better.
Getting Your Grill Ready
Preheat the Grill
Heat your grill to medium-high heat, around 425°F to 500°F. This temperature range is ideal for cooking turkey burgers thoroughly without drying them out.
Oil the Grill Grates
Before placing the patties on the grill, oil the grates well to prevent sticking and breaking apart. Use a high smoke point oil like avocado or grapeseed oil. A handy trick is to dip a wad of paper towels in oil and use tongs to rub it over the hot grill grates.
Grilling the Turkey Burgers
Cooking Time and Technique
Place the patties on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side. Flip only once using a grill spatula with a single, smooth motion to avoid breaking the burgers.
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Turkey burgers must be cooked to a safe temperature of 165°F. Remove them from the grill when they reach 160°F and let them rest for 5 minutes; the residual heat will bring them to 165°F while keeping them juicy.
Adding Cheese and Buns
If you want cheeseburgers, add a slice of your favorite cheese (cheddar, pepper jack, Swiss, etc.) during the last 1-2 minutes of grilling, then close the lid to melt it.
Toast the hamburger buns on the grill for about 10 seconds to add a slight crisp and smoky flavor.
Tips for Juicy, Flavorful Turkey Burgers
– Don’t overcook: Overcooking dries out turkey burgers quickly. Use a thermometer and remove from the grill as soon as they hit 160°F internal temperature.
– Add moisture: Ingredients like mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, onions, and egg yolks help retain moisture and enhance flavor.
– Use fattier turkey or mix with sausage: This adds richness and prevents dryness.
– Handle patties gently: Overworking the meat makes it dense and tough.
– Oil the grill grates well: Prevents sticking and helps maintain the patty’s shape.
– Flip once: Minimizes the risk of breaking the patties.
Flavor Variations and Toppings
Turkey burgers are versatile. Try topping them with:
– Pickled or grilled onions
– Sliced tomatoes and lettuce
– Mustard, ketchup, or mayo
– Spicy relish or honey mustard sauce
– Pimento cheese or mozzarella with a balsamic drizzle
Add herbs like parsley or spices like smoked paprika to the meat mixture for extra flavor.
Turkey burgers can be juicy, flavorful, and easy to grill when you follow these simple steps. With the right prep, grill temperature, and a few handy tricks, you’ll have a delicious burger that everyone will love. Happy grilling!