A good turkey burger should be just as juicy and satisfying as a beef burger, and Ina Garten gets it!
The key to keeping these patties tender is not overmixing the meat—handling it too much makes them tough, guys.
I always mix in a little grated onion because it adds both moisture and a bit of sweetness without overpowering the turkey.
A touch of Worcestershire sauce brings out a rich, savory element that makes these burgers anything but bland.
I like this recipe because it’s packed with real ingredients, not fillers, so every bite tastes fresh and well-seasoned.
Cooking them in a hot pan with just a little oil gives the patties a crispy crust while keeping the inside tender!
How to Make Ina Garten Turkey Burger
Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground Turkey
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
- 2 tbsp Dijon Mustard
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Black Pepper
- 2 tbsp Parsley (chopped)
- 2 tbsp Basil (chopped)
- 3 Scallions (sliced)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1:
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard.
Step 2:
Add minced garlic, salt, black pepper, chopped parsley, and basil to the bowl.
Step 3:
Mix gently with your hands or a spoon to combine the ingredients without overworking the meat.
Step 4:
Shape the mixture into 4 patties of equal size.
Step 5:
Heat a grill or skillet over medium heat and cook each patty for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until thoroughly cooked.
Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe
Keep Patties Uniform
To ensure all burgers cook evenly, make sure the patties are the same size and thickness.
Avoid Overmixing
Overmixing the meat can make the burgers tough, so handle the mixture gently.
Moisture Matters
If you find the mixture too dry, adding a tablespoon of olive oil can enhance both texture and flavor.
Freshness Counts
Using fresh herbs makes a noticeable difference in flavor compared to dried ones.
Resting is Key
Let the burgers rest for a couple of minutes before serving to let the juices redistribute and enhance the flavor explosion!
What to Serve with Ina Garten Turkey Burger Recipe
Sweet Potato Fries
You can never go wrong with a batch of crispy sweet potato fries to pair with your turkey burger.
The combination of the savory patty with the naturally sweet taste of the fries creates a harmonious blend of flavors.
Slice them into thick wedges or thin sticks, toss them with some olive oil and your favorite seasoning mix, and bake until crispy.
Arugula Salad with Parmesan
For a lighter option, consider serving your turkey burger with a refreshing arugula salad.
It complements the juicy burger with a slight peppery kick.
Top the salad with shavings of Parmesan cheese and a scattering of toasted nuts for an added crunch and nutty flavor.
Coleslaw
A creamy coleslaw can add both texture and a tangy contrast to your burger.
The crunchy cabbage melds beautifully with creamy dressing, offering a refreshing side that balances out the richness of the turkey burger.
If you like a bit of zing, try adding a splash of fresh lime juice or apple cider vinegar.
Grilled Veggie Skewers
If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try some grilled veggie skewers?
They add a burst of color and flavor to your meal and are packed with vitamins and nutrients.
Use vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms, lightly seasoned and grilled to perfection.
Lettuce Wraps with a Twist
For something unique, consider wrapping your turkey burger in lettuce leaves instead of using bread buns.
It’s a fun alternative that provides a crunchy texture and lets the flavors of the meat shine through.
Add a dollop of spicy mustard or your favorite aioli for an extra kick.
Variations and Substitutions
Ground Meat Options
If you’re out of ground turkey or prefer a change, you can try using ground chicken as a solid alternative.
Ground chicken will give you a slightly different flavor and texture, but it holds up well with the same seasonings.
Additional Flavor Boosters
Don’t hesitate to mix it up with different fresh herbs like cilantro or dill!
Experiment with different cheese options by adding a slice of sharp cheddar or creamy goat cheese on top.
Gluten-Free Substitutes
For those who prefer a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
Think about switching to a lettuce wrap instead of a traditional bun for a more refreshing take.
Spice Up Your Burgers
If you enjoy a spicy kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to your turkey mixture.
These additions can bring an exciting heat to your burger that many will enjoy.
How to Store Leftover Turkey Burgers
Storing leftover turkey burgers properly ensures they remain fresh and tasty for future meals.
Place them in an airtight container to keep them moist and prevent any flavors from escaping!
In the Fridge
Once cooled, wrap your turkey burgers individually in aluminum foil.
This wrap keeps them nice and snug in the fridge for up to three days.
Place the wrapped burgers in an airtight container to maximize freshness.
Freezing for Later
If you’re thinking long-term, freezing is a great option.
Wrap each burger tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in freezer bags.
Make sure to press out any extra air to avoid freezer burn.
Label your bags with the date to keep track of freshness.
Before Storing
Ensure the turkey burgers are completely cooled before refrigerating or freezing.
Hot burgers could create unwanted moisture, reducing their post-storage quality.
Use wax paper between stacked burgers to prevent them from sticking together.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overmixing the Meat
You want to be gentle with the ground turkey to keep the burgers tender.
Overworking it will only make the patties dense and dry.
Try mixing just until the ingredients are combined, and then form your patties.
Not Adding Enough Fat
Turkey is lean, and without enough fat, your burgers might turn out dry.
Consider mixing in a little olive oil or adding a small amount of mayonnaise to the patties.
This adds juiciness and helps maintain moisture during cooking.
Skipping the Seasoning
You have to season generously, as turkey on its own can be a bit bland.
Experiment by adding herbs or finely chopped onions for extra flavor.
Remember, a tasty burger starts with well-seasoned meat!
Ina Garten Turkey Burger Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground Turkey
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
- 2 tbsp Dijon Mustard
- 2 cloves Garlic minced
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Black Pepper
- 2 tbsp Parsley chopped
- 2 tbsp Basil chopped
- 3 Scallions sliced
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard.
- Add minced garlic, salt, black pepper, chopped parsley, and basil to the bowl.
- Mix gently with your hands or a spoon to combine the ingredients without overworking the meat.
- Shape the mixture into 4 patties of equal size.
- Heat a grill or skillet over medium heat and cook each patty for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until thoroughly cooked.