Delano Homemade Turkey Burger Recipe

Prepare the mixture

In a large bowl combine ground turkey, finely diced onion, minced garlic, panko breadcrumbs, beaten egg, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix gently with your hands or a spatula until just combined — avoid overworking to keep burgers tender.

Form patties

Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz each) and form into patties roughly 3.5–4 inches wide and about 3/4 inch thick. Press a shallow indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb to reduce puffing during cooking. Refrigerate the formed patties for 10–15 minutes to help them hold shape.

Cook patties

Heat a large cast-iron skillet or grill over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon olive oil. When oil is shimmering, add patties (do not overcrowd). Cook for 4–5 minutes per side, flipping once, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). During the last minute of cooking, top each patty with a slice of Swiss cheese and cover the pan or close the grill lid to melt the cheese. Remove patties to a plate and tent with foil to rest for 2 minutes.

Toast buns: Split King's Hawaiian rolls and toast cut sides in a dry skillet or on the grill for 30–60 seconds until lightly golden. Spread 1/2 tablespoon mayonnaise on the bottom half of each bun and a light smear of yellow mustard on the top half.

Prepare avocado: Halve and pit the avocado, scoop flesh into a small bowl and mash lightly with a fork. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Alternatively slice thinly if preferred.

Assemble burgers: Place lettuce leaf on bottom bun, add a Swiss-topped turkey patty, add 2–3 tomato slices, top with mashed or sliced avocado, then crown with the top bun. Serve immediately.

Make dressing: In a small bowl whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), salt and pepper to taste until emulsified.

Assemble salad: In a large bowl combine mixed greens, cucumber slices, cherry tomato halves, and thinly sliced red onion. Drizzle with the dressing and toss gently to coat. Divide into four portions to serve alongside each burger.

Oven method (recommended for fresh or frozen fries): Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss fries with 2 tablespoons vegetable oil and spread in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake 20–30 minutes, turning halfway, until crisp and golden. Season with salt to taste and serve immediately.

Fryer/pan method: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry in batches until golden and crisp, about 3–5 minutes per batch for frozen fries (fresh may take longer). Drain on paper towels and season with salt.