Transform your next burger night with these mouthwatering turkey burger recipes that prove lean can be just as delicious as traditional beef patties.
From Mediterranean-inspired creations to spicy Southwest versions, these recipes deliver incredible flavor while keeping things lighter and healthier.
Get ready to discover 10 unique turkey burger variations that will revolutionize your grilling game.
Whether you’re looking for a protein-packed weeknight dinner or planning a backyard cookout, these tested recipes feature creative seasonings, toppings, and mix-ins that ensure your burgers stay juicy and flavorful every time.
Classic Herb-Infused Turkey Burger with Sage and Thyme

Elevate your burger game with this aromatic and flavorful turkey burger that’s anything but ordinary.
Fresh herbs like sage and thyme transform lean ground turkey into a sophisticated patty that’s both healthy and delicious.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound ground turkey (93% lean)
• 2 tablespoons fresh sage, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1/2 medium onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 burger buns
• Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, red onion, mayo
Step 1: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, chopped sage, thyme leaves, diced onion, and minced garlic.
Step 2: Add the egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined.
Step 3: Divide the mixture into four equal portions and form into patties about 3/4 inch thick.
Step 4: Make a small thumb impression in the center of each patty to prevent bulging.
Step 5: Heat a grill or skillet over medium heat and lightly oil the surface.
Step 6: Cook the burgers for 5-6 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 7: Toast the buns and assemble with your favorite toppings.
Pro Tip: Let your patties rest at room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking. Also, avoid overworking the meat mixture, as this can lead to dense, tough burgers.
Mediterranean Turkey Burger with Feta and Olives

Transform your ordinary burger night into a Mediterranean feast with these flavorful turkey burgers.
Packed with tangy feta cheese, briny Kalamata olives, and aromatic herbs, these burgers offer a healthier twist on the classic while delivering an explosion of Mediterranean flavors in every bite.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/3 cup chopped Kalamata olives
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 cup diced red onion
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 burger buns
• Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, tzatziki sauce
Cooking Instructions:
Step 1: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, feta, olives, garlic, herbs, and red onion.
Step 2: Add egg and breadcrumbs, mixing gently until just combined. Don’t overmix.
Step 3: Form mixture into 4 equal-sized patties, making a slight depression in the center.
Step 4: Preheat grill or skillet to medium-high heat.
Step 5: Cook patties for 5-6 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 6: Toast buns and assemble burgers with desired toppings.
Pro Tip: Keep your turkey burgers juicy by avoiding pressing them with a spatula while cooking. For the best texture, let the patties rest at room temperature for 10 minutes before cooking.
Spicy Southwest Turkey Burger with Chipotle Mayo

Elevate your burger game with this mouthwatering Spicy Southwest Turkey Burger topped with zesty chipotle mayo.
This healthier alternative to traditional beef burgers packs a flavorful punch with Mexican-inspired seasonings and a creamy, spicy sauce that’ll make your taste buds dance.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 1 diced jalapeño (seeds removed)
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 burger buns
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, avocado, pepper jack cheese
Step 1: Mix ground turkey, onion, garlic, jalapeño, and all seasonings in a large bowl until well combined.
Step 2: Form mixture into 4 equal-sized patties, making a slight indent in the center of each.
Step 3: Prepare chipotle mayo by blending mayonnaise, chipotle peppers, and lime juice until smooth.
Step 4: Heat grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
Step 5: Cook patties for 5-6 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 6: Toast buns lightly, spread chipotle mayo, and assemble burgers with desired toppings.
Pro Tip: Don’t overwork the turkey meat when mixing and forming patties, as this can make them tough. Also, let the patties sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking throughout.
Apple and Cranberry Stuffed Turkey Burger

Elevate your burger game with this festive and flavorful stuffed turkey burger.
The combination of sweet apples, tart cranberries, and savory turkey creates a perfect harmony of tastes that will impress your family and friends.
This unique twist on a classic burger brings together fall flavors in every bite.
Ingredients:
• 2 lbs ground turkey
• 1 medium apple, diced small
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon fresh sage, minced
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 6 burger buns
• Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, mayo
Step 1: In a large bowl, combine 1/4 of the ground turkey with diced apple, cranberries, and breadcrumbs. Mix well and set aside as filling.
Step 2: Divide remaining turkey into 6 equal portions. Form each portion into a thin patty.
Step 3: Place a spoonful of apple-cranberry mixture in the center of each patty.
Step 4: Carefully fold the edges of the patty over the filling, sealing completely. Form into a burger shape.
Step 5: Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat.
Step 6: Cook burgers for 5-6 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 7: Serve on buns with your chosen toppings.
Pro Tip: To ensure even cooking, make sure your stuffed burgers are uniform in thickness. Always test the internal temperature at the thickest part of the burger, as the filling can affect cooking time.
Greek-Style Turkey Burger with Tzatziki Sauce

Transform your ordinary burger night into a Mediterranean feast with this flavorful Greek-style turkey burger.
The combination of aromatic herbs and tangy tzatziki sauce creates a lighter, healthier alternative to traditional beef burgers while maintaining all the satisfaction of a great handheld meal.
Ingredients:
For the burgers:
• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried mint
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
For the tzatziki sauce:
• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 grated cucumber, drained
• 2 minced garlic cloves
• 1 tbsp fresh dill
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt to taste
To serve:
• 4 burger buns
• Sliced tomatoes
• Red onion rings
• Lettuce leaves
Step 1: Mix ground turkey, diced onion, garlic, oregano, mint, and feta in a large bowl. Form into 4 equal-sized patties.
Step 2: Make tzatziki by combining all sauce ingredients in a bowl. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 3: Heat grill or skillet to medium-high heat. Cook patties for 5-6 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 4: Toast buns lightly, then assemble burgers with tzatziki sauce and toppings.
Pro Tip: Always drain the grated cucumber thoroughly for tzatziki sauce by pressing it in a clean kitchen towel to prevent watery sauce. For the juiciest burgers, avoid overworking the meat mixture when forming patties.
Mushroom and Swiss Turkey Burger

Elevate your burger game with this juicy Mushroom and Swiss Turkey Burger.
This healthier alternative to traditional beef burgers doesn’t compromise on flavor, thanks to the savory combination of sautéed mushrooms and melted Swiss cheese.
Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend cookout, this burger delivers a restaurant-quality experience right in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb ground turkey (93% lean)
• 8 oz button mushrooms, sliced
• 4 slices Swiss cheese
• 4 hamburger buns
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, onion
Step 1: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Set aside.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently and form into 4 equal-sized patties.
Step 3: Heat remaining oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook patties for 5-6 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 4: Top each patty with sautéed mushrooms and Swiss cheese. Cover skillet for 1 minute to melt cheese.
Step 5: Toast buns if desired, assemble burgers with your favorite toppings, and serve immediately.
Pro Tip: Don’t overwork the turkey meat when forming patties, as this can make them tough. Make a small thumb impression in the center of each patty before cooking to prevent them from puffing up in the middle.
Asian-Inspired Ginger-Scallion Turkey Burger

Transform your ordinary burger experience with this flavorful Asian twist!
This ginger-scallion turkey burger combines aromatic herbs and Asian seasonings to create a juicy, light alternative to traditional beef burgers.
The fresh ginger and scallions infuse the meat with vibrant flavors while keeping it moist and delicious.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound ground turkey
• 3 tablespoons minced fresh ginger
• 4 scallions, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 4 burger buns
• Optional toppings: lettuce, sliced cucumber, sriracha mayo
Step 1: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, minced ginger, chopped scallions, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
Step 2: Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and form into patties about ¾-inch thick. Create a small dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb.
Step 3: Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the cooking surface.
Step 4: Cook the patties for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 5: Toast the buns lightly, assemble your burgers with desired toppings, and serve immediately.
Pro Tip: Don’t overmix the meat mixture, as this can make your burgers tough. Also, let the patties rest at room temperature for 10 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking throughout.
BBQ Turkey Burger with Crispy Onion Strings

Transform your ordinary burger night into a gourmet experience with this mouthwatering BBQ turkey burger topped with irresistibly crispy onion strings.
This healthier twist on a classic combines lean ground turkey with smoky BBQ flavors and adds a satisfying crunch that’ll make you forget all about traditional beef burgers.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1/3 cup BBQ sauce
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 burger buns
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Lettuce and tomato for serving
Step 1: Mix ground turkey with 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce, salt, and pepper. Form into 4 equal-sized patties.
Step 2: Soak sliced onions in buttermilk for 15 minutes.
Step 3: Combine flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish.
Step 4: Heat oil in a deep skillet to 350°F.
Step 5: Dredge onion rings in seasoned flour and fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 6: Grill turkey burgers for 5-6 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 7: Brush burgers with remaining BBQ sauce during the last minute of cooking.
Step 8: Assemble burgers with lettuce, tomato, and crispy onion strings.
Pro Tip: For the juiciest turkey burgers, avoid overworking the meat when forming patties, and make a small thumb impression in the center to prevent bulging. Make sure to let the burgers rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking to retain their juices.
Buffalo-Style Turkey Burger with Blue Cheese

Craving the bold flavors of buffalo wings but want a healthier option?
This Buffalo-Style Turkey Burger combines lean ground turkey with tangy buffalo sauce and creamy blue cheese for a mouthwatering burger that’s both satisfying and better for you.
You’ll get all the kick of buffalo wings in a handheld format that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound lean ground turkey
• 1/4 cup buffalo hot sauce
• 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
• 1/4 cup finely diced celery
• 1/4 cup finely diced onion
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 4 burger buns
• Lettuce and tomato slices
• Extra buffalo sauce for serving
Cooking Instructions:
Step 1: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, 2 tablespoons buffalo sauce, half the blue cheese, celery, onion, egg, and breadcrumbs. Mix gently until just combined.
Step 2: Form the mixture into 4 equal-sized patties, making a slight dimple in the center of each.
Step 3: Heat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat. Cook the burgers for 5-6 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 4: During the last minute of cooking, top each burger with remaining blue cheese.
Step 5: Toast the buns lightly, then assemble your burgers with lettuce, tomato, and additional buffalo sauce.
Pro Tip: Don’t overwork the meat mixture when forming patties, as this can make your burgers tough. For the juiciest results, only flip your burgers once during cooking and resist the urge to press down on them with your spatula.
California Turkey Burger with Avocado and Sprouts

Elevate your burger game with this fresh, West Coast-inspired turkey burger that’s both healthy and delicious.
The combination of lean turkey meat, creamy avocado, and crispy sprouts creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will transport you straight to a California beach.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 ripe avocado, sliced
• 2 cups fresh alfalfa sprouts
• 4 whole grain burger buns
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 4 leaves of lettuce
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
Step 1: Mix ground turkey with garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Step 2: Form four equal-sized patties, making a slight depression in the center of each.
Step 3: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Step 4: Cook patties for 5-6 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 5: Toast burger buns until golden brown.
Step 6: Spread mayonnaise on both sides of the buns.
Step 7: Layer each burger with lettuce, turkey patty, avocado slices, sprouts, and red onion.
Pro Tip: Don’t overwork the turkey meat when forming patties, as this can make them tough. For the best texture, handle the meat gently and cook immediately after forming the patties while they’re still cold from the refrigerator.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes turkey burgers stay moist and flavorful instead of becoming dry?
Adding grated onions, Greek yogurt, or mushrooms to your turkey burger mix helps retain moisture. These ingredients release natural juices during cooking while adding depth of flavor.
How can you prevent turkey burgers from falling apart while cooking?
Bind your turkey mixture with breadcrumbs and eggs, then chill the patties for 30 minutes before cooking. This helps them hold together and creates a better texture.
What are the best seasonings to enhance turkey burger flavor?
Combine garlic powder, smoked paprika, fresh herbs, and Worcestershire sauce for maximum flavor. These seasonings complement turkey’s mild taste without overpowering it.
What internal temperature should turkey burgers reach for food safety?
Cook your turkey burgers until they reach 165°F (74°C) internal temperature. Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the patty.
Which toppings work best specifically for turkey burgers?
Top your turkey burgers with avocado, cranberry sauce, or caramelized onions. These toppings add moisture and complement turkey’s natural flavors better than traditional beef burger toppings.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have these delicious turkey burger recipes in your arsenal, you can create healthier, flavorful alternatives to traditional beef burgers.
Remember to avoid overworking the meat to keep your burgers tender, and always cook them to 165°F for food safety.
Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and toppings to make these recipes your own.
Whether you’re grilling outdoors or cooking on the stovetop, these turkey burgers will become a regular part of your meal rotation.
Don’t forget to let the burgers rest for a few minutes before serving to keep all those delicious juices locked in.