Sep 05 2026
RestaurantsPhil's BBQTurkey Burger Recipe

Turkey Burger Recipe

Inspired by Phil's BBQ
Time40m
Serves4

Make Turkey Burger Recipe in just 40m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Turkey Burger Patties

Method

Turkey Burger Patties

  1. 1

    Prepare aromatics

    Finely mince the yellow onion (or grate it on a box grater) and squeeze out any excess moisture in a clean towel or paper towel. Mince the garlic and chop the parsley.

  2. 2

    Mix patties

    In a large bowl combine 1 lb ground turkey, the drained onion (about 1/2 cup), minced garlic (2 cloves), chopped parsley (2 tbs), 1 beaten egg, 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper, and 1/2 tsp smoked paprika. Mix gently with your hands or a fork until just combined — avoid overworking to keep burgers tender.

  3. 3

    Form patties

    Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz each). Lightly wet your hands and shape each portion into a round patty about 3/4-inch thick, pressing a shallow dimple in the center of each patty to prevent doming while cooking.

  4. 4

    Chill (optional)

    Place formed patties on a plate, cover, and refrigerate for 15–30 minutes if time allows. Chilling helps the patties hold together during cooking.

  5. 5

    Cook patties

    Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, add patties (do not overcrowd — cook in batches if needed). Cook for 4–5 minutes on the first side without moving, until a brown crust forms. Flip and cook another 4 minutes. If using cheese, add a slice to each patty during the last 1–2 minutes of cooking and cover the pan briefly to melt.

  6. 6

    Check doneness

    Turkey must reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center of a patty to confirm doneness. If patties need more time, reduce heat to medium and cook until temperature is reached, avoiding drying out.

  7. 7

    Rest patties

    Transfer cooked patties to a plate and let rest for 3–5 minutes. This helps retain juices.

Toppings & Buns

  1. 8

    Prepare condiments and vegetables

    While patties cook, slice the tomato, thinly slice the red onion, wash and dry lettuce leaves, and set out pickles. In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup mayonnaise with 2 tbs ketchup and 2 tsp yellow mustard for an easy burger sauce; season to taste with a pinch of salt and pepper if desired.

  2. 9

    Toast buns

    Spread a thin layer of butter on the cut sides of 4 buns. After removing patties from the pan (or in a separate skillet), toast the buns cut-side down in the same skillet over medium heat for 1–2 minutes until golden and slightly crisp. Watch closely to prevent burning.

  3. 10

    Assemble burgers

    Spread the mayo-ketchup-mustard sauce on both bun halves. On the bottom bun place a lettuce leaf, then the rested turkey patty (with melted cheese if used), a slice of tomato, some red onion, and a few pickle slices. Top with the bun crown.

  4. 11

    Serve

    Serve immediately with optional sides (fries, salad). Offer extra condiments on the side.

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