Cranberry Turkey 'trot' Burger Recipe

Prepare aromatics

If using fresh cranberries, finely chop them until they are in small bits (about 1/8–1/4 inch). Finely mince the shallot and garlic. Pat the chopped cranberries dry with a paper towel if they are very wet to avoid excess moisture in the patties.

Mix patties

In a large bowl combine the ground turkey, chopped cranberries, minced shallot, minced garlic, chopped parsley, panko breadcrumbs, egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Gently mix with your hands or a spatula until just combined. Do not overwork or the patties can become dense.

Form patties

Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions (about 5 oz each). Shape into round patties about 3/4-inch thick and make a slight indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb to reduce puffing while cooking. Place patties on a baking sheet and chill in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes to firm up (optional but recommended).

Cook patties

Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon olive oil, or preheat an outdoor grill to medium-high. When hot, place patties on the skillet or grill. Cook for 4–5 minutes per side, flipping once, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the patties are golden-brown outside. If using cheese, place a slice on each patty in the last minute of cooking and cover briefly to melt.

While patties chill or cook, whisk together mayonnaise, cranberry sauce, orange zest, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning or sweetness by adding a pinch of salt or a little more cranberry sauce if desired. Refrigerate until ready to assemble.

Toast buns

Spread softened butter on the cut sides of the buns. Toast the buns in a hot skillet, on the grill, or under a broiler until golden brown, about 1–2 minutes. Watch carefully to avoid burning.

Assemble burgers

Spread a generous tablespoon of the cranberry-orange mayo on the bottom half of each bun. Place a few handfuls of mixed greens on the mayo, then set a hot turkey-cranberry patty on top. Add a slice of red onion and optional cheese if desired. Spoon a little extra cranberry mayo on the top bun and close the burger. Serve immediately.

Serving suggestions

Serve the burgers with oven-baked fries, a simple green salad, or roasted root vegetables. Leftover patties can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months (cool completely and freeze flat before bagging).