If you’re looking for a burger that’s juicy, flavorful, and sure to please everyone at the table, then you must try these Turkey Smash Burgers! They are a fantastic twist on the classic smash burger with a delicious homemade sauce and toppings that take it to the next level. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings—everyone will be clamoring for seconds!
What makes these Turkey Smash Burgers so special is their simplicity and taste. The combination of ground turkey and flavorful ingredients creates a burger that is not only healthy but also bursting with flavor. Plus, who doesn’t love a burger topped with creamy avocado and tangy pickled onions? You’ll want to make these again and again!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have delicious burgers on the table in no time!
- Family-Friendly: These Turkey Smash Burgers are a hit with kids and adults alike. Everyone loves a tasty burger!
- Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or swap out ingredients to make them your own.
- Packed with Flavor: The homemade burger sauce adds an irresistible zing that elevates each bite.
- Healthy Option: Ground turkey is leaner than beef, making this recipe a great choice for those seeking lighter meals.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These Turkey Smash Burgers use simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather everything we need to create these mouthwatering burgers!
For the Burger Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayo
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon dill pickles (finely chopped)
- 1/2 teaspoon pickle juice
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon soy sauce (sub coconut aminos or Tamari)
- 1/2 teaspoon rice vinegar
For the Turkey Burgers
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1/4 cup white onion (shredded)
- 2-3 tablespoons frozen butter (shredded)
- 2 teaspoons garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/4 teaspoon liquid smoke
- 2 tablespoons parmesan cheese (finely shredded)
- Kosher salt and ground black pepper to taste
For Assembly
- Burger buns of your choice (regular or gluten-free)
- American cheese (regular or dairy-free)
- Avocado slices
- Quick pickled onions
Variations
One of the best parts about these Turkey Smash Burgers is how flexible they are! Feel free to customize them based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
- Swap the protein: Try using ground chicken or even plant-based meat alternatives for a different flavor profile.
- Add some spice: Mix in some chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes into the turkey mixture for an extra kick.
- Change up the cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for added heat or feta for a Mediterranean twist.
- Go green: Add fresh spinach or arugula on top of your burgers for an extra dose of nutrients.
How to Make Turkey Smash Burgers
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
Start by making your delicious burger sauce. Combine all the sauce ingredients in a small bowl and stir until well blended. This will add an incredible flavor boost to your burgers and keep everything nice and saucy!
Step 2: Prep Onions + Butter
Next, let’s get those onions ready. Grate the white onion over some paper towels to catch any moisture. Squeeze out excess liquid—this step is key to keeping your burgers from getting soggy. Shred some frozen butter too; it helps keep our turkey patties juicy while cooking.
Step 3: Form Turkey Burger Balls
In a large bowl, mix together the ground turkey, grated onion, shredded butter, minced garlic, worcestershire sauce, mayonnaise, dijon mustard, lemon zest, liquid smoke, and parmesan cheese. Use your hands to form this mixture into balls weighing about ¼ pound each—this will give you 5-6 delicious patties!
Step 4: Prep Other Ingredients
Butter both sides of your burger buns while you wait. If you’re making quick-pickled onions, now’s the time! Have everything ready because once we start cooking, it goes really quickly!
Step 5: Cook Burgers + Toast Buns
Heat up your flat top griddle and place those burger balls on it. Gently press down each ball until it’s about ¼ inch thick—this allows for that perfect sear! After cooking one side, flip them over and add cheese right away while also placing your buns down on the griddle butter-side down to toast them nicely.
Step 6: Build + Serve Burger
Once everything is cooked perfectly, take a toasted bun and stack up those tasty burgers! Don’t forget to slather on that homemade sauce along with quick-pickled onions and avocado slices. Enjoy every bite of these delightful Turkey Smash Burgers!
Pro Tips for Making Turkey Smash Burgers
Making Turkey Smash Burgers is a breeze with these handy tips to ensure every bite is juicy and flavorful!
- Use Chilled Ingredients: Keeping your turkey and butter cold helps retain moisture during cooking, preventing dry patties.
- Avoid Overworking the Meat: Gently handling the turkey mixture prevents the patties from becoming tough. Just mix until combined for tender results!
- Let Them Rest: After cooking, let the burgers rest for a minute before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, creating a more flavorful bite.
- Preheat Your Grill or Skillet: A hot cooking surface is crucial for achieving that perfect sear on the outside of your burgers while keeping them juicy on the inside.
- Experiment with Flavor: Feel free to add different spices or herbs to the turkey mixture to customize your burgers. Think Italian seasoning or smoked paprika for a fun twist!
How to Serve Turkey Smash Burgers
Serving up these Turkey Smash Burgers can be just as fun as making them! Get creative with presentation and sides for a delightful meal.
Garnishes
- Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can add a pop of color and freshness.
- Sliced Jalapeños: For those who enjoy some heat, adding sliced jalapeños gives an extra kick and vibrant look.
- Tomato Slices: Juicy tomato slices not only enhance flavor but also add a refreshing element to each burger.
Side Dishes
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries are a deliciously sweet counterpart to savory burgers, providing a satisfying crunch.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds creamy texture and complements the richness of the burger, making each bite balanced and refreshing.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, smoky grilled corn brings summer vibes to your meal. Just brush it with some herb-infused olive oil for an added flavor boost!
- Mixed Green Salad: A light mixed green salad with a zesty vinaigrette will enhance your meal with freshness and color.
With these tips and serving suggestions, your Turkey Smash Burgers will not only taste amazing but look fantastic too! Enjoy every scrumptious bite!
Make Ahead and Storage
These Turkey Smash Burgers are perfect for meal prep! You can make the patties ahead of time and enjoy them during a busy week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your delicious burgers.
Storing Leftovers
- Store leftover cooked turkey burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- They can last up to 3-4 days.
- Make sure to cool them completely before sealing to avoid condensation.
Freezing
- To freeze, place uncooked burger balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid.
- Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be stored for up to 3 months; just label them with the date!
Reheating
- For reheating, you can warm them in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.
- Alternatively, microwave for 1-2 minutes if you’re short on time; just ensure they’re hot all the way through.
FAQs
Got questions? We’ve got answers! Here are some common queries about Turkey Smash Burgers.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef for smash burgers?
Absolutely! Turkey Smash Burgers are a fantastic alternative to traditional beef burgers. They remain juicy and flavorful, especially when seasoned well.
How do I make Turkey Smash Burgers healthy?
To keep your Turkey Smash Burgers healthy, choose lean ground turkey and load up on fresh veggies like avocado and pickled onions. The homemade burger sauce is also a healthier option compared to store-bought versions.
Can I prepare the burger sauce in advance?
Yes! The burger sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. This makes it easy to whip up your burgers without extra prep work!
What cheese works best with Turkey Smash Burgers?
American cheese is popular for its melting properties, but feel free to use dairy-free cheese if you prefer. It melts nicely and adds great flavor!
How do I get my turkey burgers to stay juicy?
Adding grated onion and frozen butter into the turkey mix keeps these smash burgers moist while cooking. The high heat from smashing also helps lock in flavors!
Final Thoughts
I hope you find joy in making these Turkey Smash Burgers as much as I do! They’re not only deliciously satisfying but also versatile enough for your family dinners or meal prep sessions. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your creations with friends and family. Happy cooking!
Turkey Smash Burgers
Indulge in the deliciousness of Turkey Smash Burgers, a healthier twist on a classic favorite. These juicy burgers are crafted with lean ground turkey and a flavorful homemade sauce that elevates the taste to new heights. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual family gathering, these burgers promise satisfaction for everyone at the table. Topped with creamy avocado and quick-pickled onions, they are not only packed with flavor but also easy to customize to suit your palate. Get ready to enjoy mouthwatering bites that will keep you coming back for more!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup mayo
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon dill pickles (finely chopped)
- 1/2 teaspoon pickle juice
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon coconut aminos
- 1/2 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1/4 cup white onion (shredded)
- 2–3 tablespoons frozen butter (shredded)
- 2 teaspoons garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons parmesan cheese (finely shredded)
- Burger buns of your choice (regular or gluten-free)
- American cheese (regular or dairy-free)
- Avocado slices
- Quick pickled onions
Instructions
- Prepare the burger sauce by mixing mayo, ketchup, chopped dill pickles, pickle juice, paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, coconut aminos, and rice vinegar in a small bowl.
- Grate the white onion and squeeze out excess moisture using paper towels.
- In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, grated onion, shredded butter, minced garlic, mayonnaise, dijon mustard, lemon zest, parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Form into 5-6 balls weighing about ¼ pound each.
- Butter both sides of burger buns and prepare quick-pickled onions.
- Heat a griddle; smash turkey balls into patties and cook until golden brown. Add cheese during the last minute of cooking.
- Assemble burgers on toasted buns with sauce, pickled onions, and avocado slices.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger (approx. 150g)
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
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