Turkey Smash Burgers Recipe

Turkey Smash Burgers are the perfect solution for anyone craving a juicy, flavorful burger without the heaviness of traditional beef patties. These burgers are leaner, packed with protein, and incredibly delicious. The key to a great smash burger is creating a crusty, caramelized exterior while keeping the inside juicy, and this recipe ensures just that. Paired with your favorite toppings and sauces, these turkey smash burgers are not only healthier but just as satisfying as their beef counterparts.

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Turkey Patty Mixture

1. Mix the Ground Turkey: In a large mixing bowl, add the ground turkey, finely diced onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the patties tough.
2. Shape the Patties: Divide the turkey mixture into 4 to 6 equal portions, depending on the size of the burgers you prefer. Roll each portion into a loose ball, but don’t press them too tightly — this will allow them to be smashed more easily and evenly during cooking.
3. Chill the Patties: For the best results, chill the turkey balls in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes. This helps firm them up slightly and makes them easier to handle when smashing.

Step 2: Preparing the Burger Sauce

1. Combine the Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, pickle juice, and garlic powder until smooth.
2. Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the sauce and add more pickle juice or mustard if you like a tangier flavor, or a bit more garlic powder for extra flavor.
3. Refrigerate: Keep the sauce in the fridge while you prepare the rest of the meal. This allows the flavors to meld together.

Step 3: Cooking the Turkey Smash Patties

1. Preheat the Skillet: Heat a large cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Once hot, add a tablespoon of olive oil to coat the surface. You want the skillet to be very hot to achieve that signature smash burger crust.
2. Smash the Patties: Take the chilled turkey balls and place them in the hot skillet. Using a sturdy spatula, press down firmly on each ball, smashing it into a thin patty. Hold the spatula down for about 10-15 seconds to ensure even contact with the hot surface.
3. Cook the Patties: Cook the smashed patties for about 2-3 minutes on the first side, until the edges are crispy and the bottom has developed a golden-brown crust. Season the top side of each patty with a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Flip and Add Cheese: Flip the patties and immediately add a slice of cheese to each one. Cover the skillet with a lid or a piece of aluminum foil to help the cheese melt while the patties finish cooking, about another 2-3 minutes.
5. Remove the Patties: Once fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F), remove the patties from the skillet and let them rest on a plate while you prepare the buns.

Step 4: Toasting the Buns

1. Toast the Buns: While the patties rest, slice the brioche buns in half and lightly butter or oil the cut sides. Place the buns, cut side down, in the hot skillet or griddle. Toast them for 1-2 minutes until golden and slightly crispy.
2. Set Aside: Once toasted, set the buns aside on a plate or a cutting board, ready for assembly.

Step 5: Assembling the Turkey Smash Burgers

1. Spread the Sauce: Generously spread your prepared burger sauce on both the top and bottom halves of each toasted bun.
2. Add the Patties: Place the cheesy turkey smash patties on the bottom buns.
3. Layer the Toppings: Add your desired toppings — lettuce, tomato slices, red onion rings, pickles, avocado slices, and crispy bacon strips. Feel free to mix and match based on your preferences.
4. Top with Bun: Finally, place the top bun on the stack, pressing down gently to hold everything together.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve Hot: Serve the turkey smash burgers immediately, while the patties are hot and the cheese is still melted.
2. Side Dishes: Pair these burgers with your favorite sides — fries, onion rings, coleslaw, or a simple salad. A cold drink or a milkshake also pairs perfectly with this hearty meal.
3. Enjoy: Dig in and enjoy the juicy, flavorful turkey smash burgers with all your favorite toppings!

Tips for the Best Turkey Smash Burgers

• Don’t Overmix the Meat: When combining the turkey with seasonings, be gentle to avoid overmixing, which can lead to a dense, tough burger.
• Get the Skillet Hot: A hot skillet is key to achieving the crispy edges and caramelized exterior that make smash burgers so delicious. Make sure the skillet is preheated well before adding the turkey patties.
• Smash Immediately: Smash the turkey balls as soon as they hit the skillet. This helps them spread out thin and ensures even cooking.
• Use a Sturdy Spatula: A strong, flat spatula is essential for smashing the patties effectively. You want to apply firm, even pressure to get that thin, crispy patty.
• Cheese Options: While cheddar or American cheese is classic, feel free to experiment with other types of cheese like Swiss, pepper jack, or even blue cheese for a different flavor profile.

Variations and Customizations

• Turkey Bacon Smash Burgers: Add crispy turkey bacon to keep the entire meal leaner while still getting that smoky flavor.
• Spicy Turkey Smash Burgers: Add a dash of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños to the turkey mixture for a spicy kick. You can also use pepper jack cheese for an extra layer of heat.
• Herb Turkey Smash Burgers: Mix fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or chives into the ground turkey for a fresh, herbaceous twist.
• Low-Carb Version: For a low-carb or keto-friendly option, serve the turkey smash patties in lettuce wraps instead of buns.

Health Benefits

• Lean Protein: Ground turkey is a great source of lean protein, making these burgers a healthier alternative to traditional beef burgers.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Turkey is rich in essential vitamins and minerals like niacin, selenium, and phosphorus, which support overall health and wellness.
• Lower in Fat: By using ground turkey, you’re reducing the overall fat content of the burgers while still maintaining flavor and juiciness.

Conclusion

Turkey Smash Burgers are the perfect way to enjoy a healthier, lighter version of the classic smash burger while still satisfying that burger craving. Whether you keep it simple with cheese and a few toppings or load it up with all your favorites, these turkey patties deliver on flavor, texture, and juiciness. The crispy edges, melty cheese, and delicious toppings all come together to create a burger that’s sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, hosting a summer barbecue, or just indulging in a comfort food craving, these Turkey Smash Burgers will be a hit!

Yield: 4 Burgers

Turkey Smash Burgers Recipe

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Turkey Smash Burgers are the perfect solution for anyone craving a juicy, flavorful burger without the heaviness of traditional beef patties. These burgers are leaner, packed with protein, and incredibly delicious. The key to a great smash burger is creating a crusty, caramelized exterior while keeping the inside juicy, and this recipe ensures just that. Paired with your favorite toppings and sauces, these turkey smash burgers are not only healthier but just as satisfying as their beef counterparts.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) ground turkey (85% lean preferred)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 slices cheddar or American cheese (optional)
• 4 burger buns
• Toppings: lettuce, tomato, pickles, onions, mayo, ketchup, mustard, etc.

Instructions

1. Season the Turkey:

• In a mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
• Mix gently to avoid overworking the meat.

2. Form the Patties:

• Divide the seasoned turkey into 4 equal portions.
• Roll each portion into a loose ball. Don’t press them too firmly, as they will be smashed on the skillet.

3. Cook the Smash Burgers:

• Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and add the olive oil.
• Once hot, place the turkey balls on the skillet and use a spatula (preferably one with a flat edge) to firmly smash each ball into a thin patty.
• Cook for 3-4 minutes on the first side, or until the edges are crispy and browned.

4. Flip and Add Cheese:

• Flip the patties and cook for an additional 3 minutes. If using cheese, add a slice on top of each patty and let it melt.

5. Assemble the Burgers:

• Toast the burger buns if desired.
• Spread mayonnaise or your preferred condiments on the buns, and add your desired toppings (lettuce, tomato, pickles, onions, etc.).
• Place the turkey patties on the buns and serve hot.

Notes

• Turkey Doneness: Ground turkey should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
• Cheese Choices: Cheddar, American, or provolone cheese pairs well with these smash burgers.
• Topping Variations: Try avocado, sautéed onions, or bacon for a gourmet twist.
• Make It Ahead: You can prepare the turkey patties ahead of time and refrigerate them, covered, for up to 24 hours before cooking.